Paradigm #7

Paradigm #7 from Image brings Cashel and Haun's offbeat series to a tense and playful crossroads with the story "The Games People Play." The cover, illustrated by Jeremy Haun, splits the design between a hard-edged, noir-style man glowering from the upper panel and a shadowy, wide-eyed silhouetted figure crouching nervously below — the two halves divided by Scrabble-tile letters spelling out "GAMES" and "PLAY." It's a smart, visually inventive design that sets a mood equal parts suspense and dark wit, making this 2003 issue a satisfying entry in one of Image's more distinctive series.