This issue's art really felt like it had actual presence and weight. This is probably best seen in Sangheili and Spartan armor. With one or two minor exceptions, the styling didn't draw your attention away in an unintended manner as before. This new artist is doing a good job! Best of all, they're coupled with a pretty good writer in Duffy Boudreau. I'm really happy that he's going to be leading the series for the foreseeable future.

Now about the story. Not much to add, really. It's cool to see where the universe as a whole will end up in upcoming stories with the Absolute Record, and the dynamic between Dr. Halsey and Jul 'Mdama. This issue shows a lot of care for the community too. Fans are concerned about a great deal of things and it appears as if the writers are taking care of that. With that in mind, I find it interesting that we'll see some real consequences for one of Halo's most controversial characters. Sarah Palmer really outshines her former world-beating record in fucking up. Instead of carrying on as usual, with Infinity jumping off to her next destination with all hands, it seems like Palmer will face repercussions for her poor performance and conduct as Commander, Infinity Spartan Forces.