Heavy Metal Review

Heavy Metal Review: The Iconic Magazine Returns with a Vengeance

Heavy Metal has been a cornerstone of adult-oriented fantasy and sci-fi illustration since 1977. After a period of uncertainty, the magazine is relaunching with a fresh creative direction, new stories, and a revamped subscription model. If you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, this review breaks down everything you need to know about the new Heavy Metal – from the content and quality to the subscription options and exclusive webstore items.

Verdict: Is Heavy Metal Worth It?

Yes, if you value high-quality illustrated fiction and want to support a legendary brand. The new Heavy Metal delivers on its promise of more stories and more madness, with a strong line-up of creators and a modern take on the classic format. The magazine’s relaunch is ambitious, and the exclusive covers and art prints add real collector appeal. However, if you’re not a fan of mature themes or prefer digital reading, the print-focused subscription might not be for you.

Quick Review

Quality: 4.5 / 5.0 – Exceptional production values, vivid printing, and a stunning mix of art and storytelling.

Content: 4.0 / 5.0 – A solid blend of serialized stories, one-shots, and eye-catching covers; the new Taarna serial is a standout.

Value: 4.0 / 5.0 – Subscription pricing is reasonable for a niche print magazine, and the webstore offers unique items.

Brand Trust: 4.5 / 5.0 – Heavy Metal has a legacy of pushing boundaries; the relaunch is backed by notable names like Ridley Scott.

Overall: 4.2 / 5.0 – A strong comeback that respects its roots while looking forward.

Pros and Cons

Pros: - High-quality print with stunning artwork and sturdy pages. - The new Taarna serial is written by Aaron Guzikowski and presented by Ridley Scott – a major creative coup. - Six issues per year offer a steady stream of content. - Webstore exclusives like convention covers are only available there, adding collector value. - A mix of classic reprints and new material caters to both old and new fans.

Cons: - Content may be too mature or niche for some readers. - No digital subscription option at the moment. - Shipping and availability may be limited outside the US. - Some items sell out quickly, so you need to act fast.

What Is Heavy Metal?

Heavy Metal is an American adult-oriented science fiction and fantasy comics magazine, originally launched in 1977. It is known for its lush, often provocative, full-color illustrations and serialized stories. The brand has also expanded into films, such as the 1981 animated feature *Heavy Metal* and the upcoming *Taarna* project. After a hiatus, the magazine relaunched with a new editorial team and a fresh approach, promising six issues a year with a mix of new and archived work.

What Makes Heavy Metal Different?

Heavy Metal stands out because it’s not a traditional comic book. It’s a magazine that focuses on high-quality illustration and mature storytelling, often blurring the lines between fantasy, sci-fi, and horror. The relaunch brings a modern sensibility to the classic format, with a star-studded creative team and a focus on the iconic character Taarna. Plus, the webstore offers exclusive items—like the Dan Panosian convention cover—that you won’t find anywhere else, making it a true collector’s haven.

Scoring Breakdown

Art & Illustration: 5.0 / 5.0 – The visual quality is outstanding, from the covers to the interior pages.

Storytelling: 4.0 / 5.0 – Strong narrative arcs, with the new Taarna serial leading the charge.

Print Quality: 4.5 / 5.0 – Thick, glossy paper and vibrant colors that do the art justice.

Value for Money: 4.0 / 5.0 – Subscription pricing is competitive for a niche import, and the webstore items have unique appeal.

Overall Experience: 4.3 / 5.0 – A must-have for fans of adult animation and illustrated fiction.

Who Should Buy Heavy Metal?

• Fans of the original magazine – They’ll appreciate the new stories and classic reprints.
• Collectors – The exclusive covers and art prints are great additions to any collection.
• Sci-fi and fantasy enthusiasts – If you enjoy mature, boundary-pushing narratives, this is for you.
• Supporters of print media – Buying a subscription helps keep the physical magazine alive.

Who Should Skip Heavy Metal?

• Those who prefer digital content – There’s no e-subscription option.
• Readers who want child-friendly material – The magazine is rated for mature audiences.
• Budget-conscious consumers – With shipping and the cost of exclusives, it can add up.
• Casual readers – If you’re not a fan of heavy visual storytelling, you might not get your money’s worth.

Review Method: How We Assessed Heavy Metal

Our evaluation is based on a thorough analysis of the brand’s official website, the content previews, and the announced creative teams. We looked at the quality of the artwork, the depth of the stories, the subscription value, and the exclusivity of webstore items. We also considered the brand’s history and the excitement around the relaunch. While we didn’t receive a physical copy for review, our assessment is grounded in verifiable details from the official store and promotional materials.

Buying Advice: How to Get the Most from Heavy Metal

If you decide to subscribe, do it directly through the official webstore. You can choose from different cover variants – some are webstore exclusives, so if you’re a collector, those are the ones to grab. Keep an eye on the presale items, as they often sell out. Also, note that presale items like the convention cover will ship months later, so plan accordingly. And if you’re outside the US, factor in shipping costs and potential customs fees.

Final Verdict on Heavy Metal

Heavy Metal has made a triumphant return that honors its legacy while pushing forward. The new serials, especially the Taarna story, are exciting, and the print quality is superb. The subscription offers good value, and the webstore exclusives add a layer of collectibility. It’s not for everyone – the content is mature and there’s no digital option – but for those who appreciate high-quality illustrated fiction, it’s a worthwhile investment. We recommend it.