Review: SPACE PIRATE CAPTAIN HARLOCK #1 is Pirate Fun Leading to Bigger Plans

Earlier this month, Ablaze launched the new comic series Space Pirate Captain Harlock, based on the classic anime. This new comic comes from writer Leiji Matsumoto and artist Jerome Alquié and takes place in the same timeline as the original series. Each issue features 32 full-color pages and while Space Pirate Captain Harlock #1 is available now, the second issue will launch on July 7. Ablaze provided me a copy of the first issue to review, but you can purchase a copy from your local comic shop, comiXology (affiliate link), or wherever you like to buy comics.

From the legendary Leiji Matsumoto, along with Jérôme Alquié, comes an epic new story! Set within the timeline of the original series, this brand-new Captain Harlock adventure marks the beginning of a new story arc. Planet Earth is threatened by an upcoming invasion by the Sylvidres and despite being banished as a pirate, Captain Harlock won’t give up trying to save the world. This time, the source of danger comes directly from Earth, not outer space. A team of scientists discovers a Sylvidres mausoleum where they find information about terrifying genetic manipulations and a destructive power capable of either providing the Sylvidres with immortality or putting an end to their civilization. The unprecedented cold spell hitting Earth might only be a taste of what this new enemy has in store... Will Captain Harlock and his crew manage to solve this mystery and save the Earth from yet another menace?

I had a lot of fun reading this comic. I’m not familiar with Space Pirate Captain Harlock, but the story was fun, the characters are interesting, and the art is gorgeous. It retains the look and feel of an ‘80s anime but very polished. I really appreciate that.

The story is fun. Without spoiling too much, we start with pirate action and then end with an event that sets in motion world-changing consequences. This naturally helps set up additional issues of the comic and gets fans excited for the story as it unravels.

I really don’t have any problems with Space Pirate Captain Harlock #1 and think it’s worth checking out, especially if you’re a fan of the original series. It looks like a fun pirate adventure that will lead into something bigger.