Hunters’ Prey Pt 2
The Phantom heads to the docks to find the mysterious Tarquin. I liked seeing the Red/Blue/Green Dragon again; oddly, Tala’s name is Tara here. I always enjoy it when the Phantom hunts for information, but like Tarquin my patience is wearing thin!
3.5/5

The Heir of Frankenstein
A professor from the 17th Phantom’s alma mater is inspired by the novel Frankenstein and sets out to make his own creature. I’m so tired of Frankenstein-inspired stories, but at least this one did something a little bit different with the concept.
3/5

Hunters' Prey Pt 1
The Leopard Man is still at large and the Phantom intends to take Laloria, late of the Golden People, to a safer location. This is a solid start and the story already feels much stronger than “Bad Blood in Bangalla”. I really appreciated that recap.
3/5

Dangerous Waters
Old rubber bales and unnatural sharks are making appearances off the Bangallan coast. The Phantom investigates. It’s a fairly standard story, but it’s an interesting one. Frenz took an old-fashioned idea and effortlessly transported it into the modern era.
3.5/5

Jungle World
A business man opens up a park called Jungle World, where animatronic creatures roam. It’s totally safe. What could go wrong? A welcome change of pace and a rather amusing story, even if Diana didn’t really get much to do. I’d like to see more of Jungle World!
3.5/5

All in a Knight’s Work
In 1960s Burma, the Phantom barely puts a dent into the narcotics epidemic—and he meets a man named Jim McGovern. This was a fun, action-packed adventure that might have benefited from more pages. Great retro vibes served up by Munro and Steacy.
3.5/5

The Gray Gang Pt 2
Rpt 62. The last free member of the Gray Gang is determined to get his money. The Phantom is determined to save Diana. While the chase is amazing, it does feel like we’re thrown headlong into it when the setup isn’t included. Rating lowered for this part.
4/5

The Great Ajax
Rpt 63. A strong man keeps losing his temper and getting into trouble. His older (and smaller) brother asks for the Phantom’s help. I previously didn’t like this one, but now I think it’s merely ordinary instead of terrible. Rating raised slightly.
2.5/5

Bobo the Toy Dog/Bomb Squad #7
Rpt 64. Story 1 — Two crooks use a boy’s toy dog to smuggle diamonds past customs. A cute, fluffy story that remains a nice palate cleanser. Story 2 — A non-Phantom story in which the Bomb Squad distrusts their new member. Unremarkable filler.
2.5/5

The Mermaids of Melo Straits/A Phantom Ranger Adventure
Rpt 65. Story 1 — “Mermaids” lure ships onto a reef. There are no surprises here, but it’s always a decent read. Story 2 — A non-Phantom story in which the Phantom Ranger saves a sheriff. Was this one-pager necessary?
2.5/5

Actually, if we could get a "Treehouse of Horror"-style issue every year, I'd be a very happy camper.

Another Dragon?
After hearing reports of a “dragon” sighting near where Steggy was found, the Phantom heads to the island to investigate. A one-note story that felt unnecessary. The ending was slightly amusing, I guess, even if I expected it.
2.5/5