Review: Ty Yorrick Goes on a Daring Mission in ‘The High Republic Adventures: Saber for Hire’ #2 (No Spoilers)
In our review of The High Republic Adventures: Saber for Hire issue #1, Nate Manning remarked that the previous issue wouldn’t “win any new readers over,” but that the issue “does a solid job of getting inside the head of its lead characters.” In many ways, I felt that this was a good description for issue #2 as well.
Even though the series is just getting started, I’m finding a tough reason for it to exist. The characters are not big fan-favorites among High Republic fans. And Ty Yorrick hasn’t won me over, especially with her more apathetic demeanor. But thankfully, Saber for Hire issue #2 is a better comic overall than the last thanks to gorgeous art and high-octane action that is more of a focus here.
In the first issue, it was revealed that the Nihil are abducting Force-sensitive children on the planet of Temerancé. Unable to keep up her jaded walls, Ty reluctantly accepts a job to rescue the children.
Ty Yorrick in this story fulfills the character archetype of the “wandering hero.” Much like Geralt of Rivia or The Man With No Name in the “Dollars Trilogy,” these characters put on a hard outer shell and the interesting part is seeing that shell come down. But it doesn’t fully come down as Ty is still very mean and somewhat abusive towards her partner Drewen.
It’s an absolutely positive thing to see more nuance toward Ty. But it still doesn’t make up for her actions toward Drewen. It’s odd to have such a demeaning individual be the main character of the story. And Ty and Drewen’s conflict is frustrating to read about as it’s mostly just childish bickering.
Thankfully, Rachael Stott’s art is yet again a highlight. With Ty going on the offensive against the Nihil, Stott’s art wonderfully captures the flow and movement of Ty. Each panel is clean with focused compositions. And the reader isn’t lost at all with movements continuing from panel to panel.
Saber for Hire excels when writer Cavan Scott and artist Rachael Stott focus solely on Ty Yorrick’s journey of reluctant heroism. I just wish she’d stop being such a jerk. Yes, this attitude is part of the character archetype, but it’s harder to empathize with her than it is, say, Geralt of Rivia. It’s not endearing. It’s destructive and pointless.
Score: 6/10
UP NEXT:
Thank you to Dark Horse for the advanced review copy used for this writing. The High Republic Adventures: Saber for Hire issue 2 is available at local comic book stores and digital store shelves starting May 29.
Born and raised in Hawaii, Jay Goodearl runs the YouTube Gaming channel “Good Games, Dude” His channel aims to open up video games to beginners and immediate players and help them understand what makes games the art form that it is.
