Zarjaz Sci-Fi Special 2024: The ‘2000…

Zarjaz: A Nostalgic Dive into the Galaxy’s Greatest Comic

For those who grew up with the beloved 2000 AD comics, the latest edition of fan-made anthology Zarjaz hits like a comforting blast from the past. Rebranding as the Zarjaz Sci-Fi Special 2024, this collection pays homage to the earliest and perhaps most revered years of 2000 AD. The return of original showrunner Andrew Lewis ensures a nostalgic trip down memory lane, resurrecting icons like Judge Anderson and Strontium Dog. Delve into this treasure trove and you might uncover forgotten gems like Blackhawk and MACH 1, even while encountering some surprise obscurities that will tickle long-time fans. Zarjaz brings together the Golden Age’s charm and creativity in an exciting mix.

A Tribute to Nostalgia

The anthology has always been steeped in nostalgia, much like its source of inspiration. While this edition dives deep into 2000 AD’s rich history, newcomers might find it challenging to glean all its nuances. Even ardent fans might need to jog their memories. Yet, this quest to remember is precisely what gives Zarjaz its unique appeal. The stories invite readers to reconnect with their youthful obsessions as much as to immerse themselves in the art and narrative. It’s a loving tribute to an era that defined the comic landscape.

Dedicated readers might recall the adventures of ‘The Holo Man’ by Craig Dawson and Brett Burbridge. This story reprises The VCs future war strip while stepping back from the main cast. It paints a haunting picture of war’s inevitable horrors. The black-and-white visuals echo the original, creating an evocative yet fresh take.

The World of Eclectic Characters

Tom Davies and Chris Geary captivate with ‘Green is the New Grey!’ This Judge Dredd-inspired story uniquely uses color amidst black-and-white panels. Here, an eco-activist’s antics pop vividly, thanks to Geary’s genre-fiending talents that surely warrant wider recognition. Meanwhile, Davies scripts a Strontium Dog/Rogue Trooper story with Bib Brice lending retro visuals. The encounter-based narrative delivers a twist, sure to leave readers satisfied.

One can’t help but smile at the dark whimsy of ‘Whatever Happened to the Biotronic Man Stickers Kid?’ Crafted by T.M.O. and James Newell, this tale playfully parallels early 2000 AD fandom. While the story might fizzle out towards the end, its journey brings amusement and memories. Likewise, Pete Howard and Brett Burbridge’s ‘Ottodogs’ uses creative lettering and color to revisit Judge Dredd’s early years. As a cadet mission goes awry in the Cursed Earth, bleak humor reigns supreme.

Zarjaz, driven by fan passion, showcases a spectrum of craftsmanship, from raw and unpolished to ready for prime time. Dotted with contextual features and lighthearted fun, the anthology guarantees nostalgic thrills for early 2000 AD devotees. It’s an electrifying journey through memory lane, packed with iconic stories and inventive narratives that honor the legacy of Britain’s comic giant.

Grab Your Copy

For a taste of nostalgic thrill-power, Zarjaz Sci-Fi Special 2024 waits for you. With contributors like Craig Dawson, Daniel Whiston, Tom Davies, and many others, this anthology is priced at £13.49. Dive into this nostalgic delight and let the galaxy’s greatest comics memories engulf you once again.

Buy online here