J-Mart: Viltrumites, Isaiah Bradley, Sportsmaster

[Thorpacolypse]

Actually they had normal earth guns at one story arc while taking on the Marvel's version of the borg.
They were afraid that the baddies would be able to track them, or make their guns inoperative if they were made with advanced technology.

So of course they run into a group who didn't give up their fancy ray guns and strangely all their worst fears are realized.

... Plus it just looks cool. ;~)

The ballistic guns do look cool, no doubt. When I first saw him, he had blasters, so that's what I went with and since his return, he has a blaster, but all the good pics have machine guns. Go fig. I guess I can change the descriptor, ranged damage is ranged damage in most cases.

[Thorpacolypse]

We've got another new item for our Marvel Aisle!


None of that Bitten-by-a-Radioactive-Spider Claptrap here. - Adam Warlock

ADAM WARLOCK
PL: 13 (250 pts) - OPL: 13 ; DPL: 13

ABILITIES: STRENGTH 8, STAMINA 7, AGILITY 5, DEXTERITY 5, FIGHTING 8, INTELLECT 5, AWARENESS 7, PRESENCE 4

SKILLS: Acrobatics 2 (+7), Athletics (+8), Close Combat [Unarmed] 4 (+12), Deception 3 (+7/+9) [Attractive], Expertise [Cosmic Lore] 10 (+15), Expertise [Magic] 8 (+13), Expertise [Theology and Philosophy] 8 (+13), Insight 6 (+13), Intimidation (+4), Investigation (+5), Perception 3 (+10), Persuasion 5 (+9/+11) [Attractive], Ranged Combat [Cosmic Magic] 3 (+11), Sleight of Hand (+5), Stealth (+5), Technology 2 (+7), Treatment (+5), Vehicles (+5)

ADVANTAGES: Attractive (1), Beginner's Luck, Equipment (1), Favored Foe (Thanos), Jack-of-all-Trades, Luck (Edit Scene) (1), Luck (Improve Roll) (1), Luck (Inspiration) (1), Ranged Attack (3), Trance

POWERS:
Cosmic Being: Immunity 11 (Aging, Life Support), Feature 1 (Temporal Inertia); 12 pts
Space Traveler: Flight 10 (2000 mph), Movement 2 (Space Travel 2); 24 pts
Cosmic Cocoons: Immortality 1 (1 month); 2 pts
Cosmic Awareness: Senses 9 (Cosmic Awareness [Mental; Extended 2], Detect [Spatial Anomalies, Mental; Extended 6, Ranged]); 9 pts
Cosmic Mystic: 45 pt Array; 48 pts
Cosmic Binding: Ranged Affliction 15 (1st: Hindered and Vulnerable, 2nd: Defenseless and Immobilized; Extra: Alternate Resistance [Resisted by Dodge], Cumulative, Extra Condition, Flaw: Limited to two Degrees); 45 pts
Cosmic Blast: Ranged Damage 15 (Extra: Multiattack); 1 pt
Healing Spell: Healing 15 (Extra: Restorative); 1 pt
Mystic Shield: Protection 8, Impervious 6 (Extra: Affects Others); 1 pt
Cosmic Burst: Burst Area Damage 13 (Extra: Area Burst [30 ft radius], Selective); 1 pt

EQUIPMENT:
(5ep)
Guardians of the Galaxy Communicator: Senses 1 (Communication Link, Radio [Guardians of the Galaxy]), Comprehend 2 (Speak, Understand All Languages); 5ep

OFFENSE:
Initiative +5
Close Attack +8
Unarmed +12 [Unarmed +8]
Ranged Attack +8
Cosmic Magic +11 [Mystic Binding +15; Mystic Blast +15, Multiattack]
Special Attack [Cosmic Mystic Burst +13, Area Burst]

DEFENSES:
Dodge +11 [DC21] Parry +11 [DC21]
Toughness +7 (+15 with Force Field, +6 Impervious with Force Field), Fortitude +9, Will +13

COMPLICATIONS:
Aloof: Because of his convoluted history, usage of the Soul Gem and such, he tends to speak cryptically and tries not to get too close to his teammates
Dark Side: Warlock fights to avoid becoming The Magus, a version of himself driven mad by the usage of the Soul Gem
Enemy: The Magus and Thanos (most of the time)
Pawn of the Cosmos: Sometimes Adam is put in situations not of his choosing because of the role he is meant to play in the cosmos (and even he doesn't know at times)
Responsibility: To protect the universe

Abilities 98 + Skills 27 (54 ranks) + Advantages 12 + Powers 96 + Defenses 17 = 250 / 250

Comments: I always liked Adam Warlock, even back in the 70’s when his story was a bit convoluted, at least for a 10-12 year old like me at the time when I started reading comics. Still, the art, the Soul Gem, the cosmic hotties he always seemed to across, and Pip’s sophomoric comedy relief made it a fun read for me. Now he’s been brought back as a cosmic shaman type in the new Guardians of the Galaxy after a starring turn in Annihilation: Conquest.

He was a pretty simple build to do really, since he hasn’t shown all the weird stuff he used to do with the Soul Gem in favor of more simple blasting, binding and the usual cryptic cosmic destiny speech that he’s known for. I still like him OK, but I liked old Adam better.

As for the quote, I am pretty sure I have the Marvel Team Up where he said that to Spider-Man, so I had to use it.

[JetstreamGW]

Now that I've completed the updates to all the original Expendables, time for some additions from the sequel. And of course, you can only start one place when you're going down that path...


Barney Ross: I heard you were dead.
Booker: Yeah, I heard that, too.

Picture died, Thorp.

Moving on to the next hundred, we've got a new J-Mart Favorite item for Aisle 2!


Nova: I remember you said to me once, you said...'if death ever comes your way and won't let you pass...make sure you scream right back in his face.'
Star-Lord: I said that?
Nova: You did.
Star- Lord: Rich, you really shouldn't trust anything I say. Most of the time, I just make stuff up.

STAR-LORD

Yay! Star Lord! Considering the director's tendencies I do hope that we get Fillion playing him in the upcoming flick

[Woodclaw]

Moving on to the next hundred, we've got a new J-Mart Favorite item for Aisle 2!


Nova: I remember you said to me once, you said...'if death ever comes your way and won't let you pass...make sure you scream right back in his face.'
Star-Lord: I said that?
Nova: You did.
Star- Lord: Rich, you really shouldn't trust anything I say. Most of the time, I just make stuff up.

STAR-LORD

Yay! Star Lord! Considering the director's tendencies I do hope that we get Fillion playing him in the upcoming flick

Nathan FIllion as Star-Lord?
Now, who just hit the jackpot?

[Batgirl III]

I'd cast Nathan Fillion as Vance Astro (Major Victory) myself... Although, if Star Lord is going to be the lead, I guess more Fillion is always better than less. But still... I think Fillions ability to blend humor, drama, and the willingness to sometimes make his heroes look like deeply flawed humans (very rare in Hollywood these days) would be well suited to Major Victory... and it'd be awesome to see him weild the shield.




Personally, I think Fillion'd be the best-est choice ever for Hal Jordon (Green La
ntern), and if I am ever given dictatorial control of Hollywood, this will happen in a live action film, not just an animated one. Despite the flaws in the 2011 film, I thought Ryan Reynolds did well enough... but since I never really read Green Lantern prior to the `90s, Jordon is always an older man in my mind. With the Reed Richards greying at the temples and veteran swagger. I kept looking at Reynolds and seeing Kyle Rayner.

I still squee ever time I recall getting a chance to play the Serenity RPG at GenCon with him. We made him play Mal, but he wanted to play River....

[Thorpacolypse]

I'd cast Nathan Fillion as Vance Astro (Major Victory) myself...

Personally, I think Fillion'd be the best-est choice ever for Hal Jordon (Green La
ntern), and if I am ever given dictatorial control of Hollywood, this will happen in a live action film, not just an animated one. Despite the flaws in the 2011 film, I thought Ryan Reynolds did well enough... but since I never really read Green Lantern prior to the `90s, Jordon is always an older man in my mind. With the Reed Richards greying at the temples and veteran swagger. I kept looking at Reynolds and seeing Kyle Rayner.

I still squee ever time I recall getting a chance to play the Serenity RPG at GenCon with him. We made him play Mal, but he wanted to play River....

I could see him in either role. I could see him as Hal Jordan, too. I liked the graying temple (probably because I now I have graying temples) Hal as well, but I don't have a problem with the de-aging of most of the DC big timers because younger people are the target market of pretty much every business. I liked Ryan Reynolds a lot as Jordan, it was the overall direction of the movie that disappointed.

Speaking of Green Lanterns, though...

[Thorpacolypse]

Staying out in the Cosmic Thorpacoverse, we've got a couple of GREEN LIGHT SPECIALS hitting the Aisle 1 shelves!


So he's a Rannian. And he's in the GL Corps and he's all over the galaxy. Yet Adam Strange can't get back to Earth from Rann...someone explain this to me?!?!?

GREEN LANTERN (VATH SARN)
PL: 11 (212 pts) - OPL: 11 ; DPL: 11

ABILITIES: STRENGTH 4, STAMINA 5, AGILITY 3, DEXTERITY 3, FIGHTING 8, INTELLECT 1, AWARENESS 2, PRESENCE 0

SKILLS: Acrobatics 2 (+5), Athletics 5 (+9), Expertise [Military] 7 (+8), Insight 3 (+5), Intimidation 7 (+7), Perception 3 (+5), Ranged Combat [Power Ring] 2 (+9), Stealth 3 (+6), Vehicles 4 (+7)

ADVANTAGES: Assessment, Close Attack (2), Improved Initiative (1), Leadership, Lionheart*, Power Attack, Ranged Attack (4), Takedown (1)

POWERS:
Thanagarian Physiology: Senses 2 (Normal Vision [Extended], Normal Hearing [Extended]), Feature 1 (Longevity); 3 pts
Green Lantern Power Ring: 131 pts traits, Removable (-26 pts); 105 pts
Attention Green Lantern...: Features 2 (A.I. and Green Lantern Corps Database); 2 pts
Communication: Senses 1 (Communication Link to Central Power Battery); 1 pt
Quick Change: Features 1 (Quick Change); 1 pt
Universal Translator: Comprehend 4 (Speak, Read, Understand, Write, All Languages); 8 pts
Scanning Beam: Variable 1 (5 pts traits, Flaw: Limited to Senses); 6 pts
Green Lantern's Light: Environment 2 (60 ft; Light); 2 pts
Ring Flight: Flight 14 (32,000 mph), Movement 4 (Environment Adaptation [Zero G], Space Travel 3); 36 pts
Force Field: Protection 8 (Flaw: Sustained), Impervious 6 (Flaw: Sustained), Immunity 10 (Life Support); 30 pts
Force Manipulation: 31 pt dynamic array; 45 pts
Force Bubble: Immunity 10 (Life Support, Extra: Dynamic, Area Burst [30 ft radius], Ranged, Flaw: Affects others only); 2 pts
Force Blast: Ranged Damage 13 (Extra: Dynamic); 2 pts
Machine Gun Blast: Ranged Damage 10 (Extra: Dynamic, Multiattack); 2 pts
Force Constructs: Create 13 (Extra: Dynamic); 2 pts
Movable Constructs: Create 10 (Extra: Dynamic, Movable); 2 pts
Weapon Summoning: Strength-based Damage 4, Enhanced Advantage 1 (Improved Critical), (Extra: Variable Descriptor [Bludgeoning/Piercing/Slashing], Dynamic); 2 pts
Mass Communication: Communication 5 (Anywhere, Radio, Extra: Dynamic, Selective); 2 pts
Force Lifting: Move Object 13 (Extra: Dynamic); 2 pts

EQUIPMENT:
[i]NONE

OFFENSE:
Initiative +7
Close Attack +10 [Unarmed +4; Ring Weapons +8, Critical 19-20]
Ranged Attack +7
Power Ring +9 [Force Blast +13; Machine Gun Blast +10, Multiattack]; Force Constructs +13; Force Lifting Move Objects +13]

DEFENSES:
Dodge +9 [DC19] Parry +9 [DC19]
Toughness +5 (+13 with Force Field, +6 Impervious with Force Field), Fortitude +9, Will +13

COMPLICATIONS:
Power Loss: The power ring needs periodic recharging and issues a warning as its power runs low
Relationships: Even though he doesn't like to admit it, he has become close to his partner, Isamot Kol
Responsibility: To protect her space sector as the Green Lantern of Sector 2682
Rivalry: The Thanagarians as the Rann/Thanagar War has ceased, but bad blood remains
Weakness: Green Lantern power rings depend on the willpower of the wearer; the maximum rank of the ring’s effects is equal to the wearer’s Will rank, and moments of self-doubt or hesitation can cause the ring to fail

Abilities 52 + Skills 18 (36 ranks) + Advantages 12 + Powers 108 + Defenses 22 = 212 / 212

Comments: I thought Vath Sarn would be more of a breakout character than he has. He and his partner, Isamot Kol, a Thanagarian Lizarkon, were a great odd couple a few years back in GL Corps. Being that they were on opposing sides of the Rann/Thanagar war, they were oil and water at first, but being GLs, they eventually worked through their differences and became good partners but also eventually friends. Odd Couple stories will ALWAYS work in entertainment and their's was pretty good.

Sarn is a trained soldier and tactician and was becoming a strong GL until his legs got blasted off. But Isamot, being able to regrow his limbs, gave him a blood transfusion which allowed them to grow back. But I haven't seen him since, so either he croaked off page or Johns just isn't using him.

[Thorpacolypse]

Another GREEN LIGHT SPECIAL is getting stocked on Aisle 1!


Nn blideth dah, Nn blahdeth nighth...

GREEN LANTERN (ISAMOT KOL)
PL: 11 (216 pts) - OPL: 11 ; DPL: 11

ABILITIES: STRENGTH 4, STAMINA 5, AGILITY 2, DEXTERITY 2, FIGHTING 8, INTELLECT 1, AWARENESS 3, PRESENCE 1

SKILLS: Athletics 5 (+9), Deception (+1), Expertise [Military] 6 (+7), Insight 2 (+5), Intimidation 4 (+5), Perception 3 (+6), Persuasion (+1), Ranged Combat [Power Ring] 2 (+9), Stealth 5 (+7), Vehicles 5 (+7)

ADVANTAGES: Close Attack (3), Diehard, Leadership, Power Attack, Ranged Attack (5), Takedown (1), Tracking

POWERS:
Lizarkon Physiology: Protection 1, Extra Limbs 1 (Tail), Regeneration 1 (1/every 5 rounds), Senses 2 (Low Light Vision, Scent [Acute, Extended, Ranged]); 7 pts
Bite/Claws: Slashing/Piercing Strength-based Damage 1 (Extra: Split); 2 pts
Green Lantern Power Ring: 130 pts traits, Removable (-26 pts); 104 pts
Attention Green Lantern...: Features 2 (A.I. and Green Lantern Corps Database); 2 pts
Communication: Senses 1 (Communication Link to Central Power Battery); 1 pt
Quick Change: Features 1 (Quick Change); 1 pt
Universal Translator: Comprehend 4 (Speak, Read, Understand, Write, All Languages); 8 pts
Scanning Beam: Variable 1 (5 pts traits, Flaw: Limited to Senses); 6 pts
Green Lantern's Light: Environment 2 (60 ft; Light); 2 pts
Ring Flight: Flight 14 (32,000 mph), Movement 4 (Environment Adaptation [Zero G], Space Travel 3); 36 pts
Force Field: Protection 7 (Flaw: Sustained), Impervious 6 (Flaw: Sustained), Immunity 10 (Life Support); 29 pts
Force Manipulation: 31 pt dynamic array; 45 pts
Force Bubble: Immunity 10 (Life Support, Extra: Dynamic, Area Burst [30 ft radius], Ranged, Flaw: Affects others only); 2 pts
Force Blast: Ranged Damage 13 (Extra: Dynamic); 2 pts
Machine Gun Blast: Ranged Damage 10 (Extra: Dynamic, Multiattack); 2 pts
Force Constructs: Create 13 (Extra: Dynamic); 2 pts
Movable Constructs: Create 10 (Extra: Dynamic, Movable); 2 pts
Weapon Summoning: Strength-based Damage 4, Enhanced Advantage 1 (Improved Critical), (Extra: Variable Descriptor [Bludgeoning/Piercing/Slashing], Dynamic); 2 pts
Mass Communication: Communication 5 (Anywhere, Radio, Extra: Dynamic, Selective); 2 pts
Force Lifting: Move Object 13 (Extra: Dynamic); 2 pts

EQUIPMENT:
[i]NONE

OFFENSE:
Initiative +2
Close Attack +11 [Unarmed +4; Claws/Bite +5; Ring Weapons +8, Critical 19-20]
Ranged Attack +7
Power Ring +9 [Force Blast +13; Machine Gun Blast +10, Multiattack]; Force Constructs +13; Force Lifting Move Objects +13]

DEFENSES:
Dodge +9 [DC19] Parry +9 [DC19]
Toughness +6 (+13 with Force Field, +6 Impervious with Force Field), Fortitude +9, Will +13

COMPLICATIONS:
Power Loss: The power ring needs periodic recharging and issues a warning as its power runs low
Relationships: He has become close to his partner, Vath Sarn, Responsibility: To protect his space sector as the Green Lantern of Sector 2682
Rivalry: The Rannians as the Rann/Thanagar War has ceased, but bad blood remains
Weakness: Green Lantern power rings depend on the willpower of the wearer; the maximum rank of the ring’s effects is equal to the wearer’s Will rank, and moments of self-doubt or hesitation can cause the ring to fail
Vulnerable: As a Lizarkon, he is vulnerable to extreme cold and cold based effects

Abilities 52 + Skills 16 (32 ranks) + Advantages 13 + Powers 113 + Defenses 22 = 216 / 216

Comments: As noted in the Vath Sarn build, Isamot Kol is a Lizarkon from Thanagar. They are mainly known for their regenerative abilities, being able to regrow lost limbs in a few weeks. One of my favorite GL Corps scenes is Kol, after having all this limbs cut off in a wicked fight, going back to active duty a few days later with his little nub arms and legs and his ring on his tongue, firing away. Awesome stuff.

[Thorpacolypse]

This GREEN LIGHT SPECIAL is also part of our IF YOU LIKE IT THEN YOU BETTER PUT A RING ON IT line!

Still praying that Beyonce will dump Jay-Z and go J-Mart, boss?

Sadly, yes...Randall...sadly...yes...

Wow, that's too pathetic for me to even waste time slammin' you for it. Just post the build...


Damn you, Geoff Johns...you got me again...

GREEN LANTERN (SIMON BAZ)
PL: 12 (201 pts) - OPL: 12 ; DPL: 12

ABILITIES: STRENGTH 3, STAMINA 3, AGILITY 2, DEXTERITY 2, FIGHTING 6, INTELLECT 1, AWARENESS 2, PRESENCE 1

SKILLS: Athletics 4 (+7), Deception 4 (+5), Expertise [Criminal] 4 (+5), Expertise [Mechanics] 5 (+6), Insight (+2), Intimidation 3 (+4), Perception 3 (+5), Persuasion (+1), Ranged Combat [Power Ring] 2 (+9), Stealth 4 (+6), Vehicles 5 (+7)

ADVANTAGES: All-Out Attack, Defensive Roll (1), Equipment (2), Languages (1) (Arabic, 1 other, Base: English), Ranged Attack (5)

POWERS:
Green Lantern Power Ring: 129 pts traits, Removable (-26 pts); 103 pts
Attention Green Lantern...: Features 2 (A.I. and Green Lantern Corps Database); 2 pts
Communication: Senses 1 (Communication Link to Central Power Battery); 1 pt
Quick Change: Features 1 (Quick Change); 1 pt
Universal Translator: Comprehend 4 (Speak, Read, Understand, Write, All Languages); 8 pts
Scanning Beam: Variable 1 (5 pts traits, Flaw: Limited to Senses); 6 pts
Green Lantern's Light: Environment 2 (60 ft; Light); 2 pts
Ring Flight: Flight 14 (32,000 mph), Movement 4 (Environment Adaptation [Zero G], Space Travel 3); 36 pts
Force Field: Protection 10 (Flaw: Sustained), Impervious 6 (Flaw: Sustained), Immunity 10 (Life Support); 32 pts
Force Manipulation: 31 pt dynamic array; 41 pts
Force Bubble: Immunity 10 (Life Support, Extra: Dynamic, Area Burst [30 ft radius], Ranged, Flaw: Affects others only); 31 pts
Force Blast: Ranged Damage 15 (Extra: Dynamic); 2 pts
Force Constructs: Create 15 (Extra: Dynamic); 2 pts
Movable Constructs: Create 10 (Extra: Dynamic, Movable); 2 pts
Mass Communication: Communication 5 (Anywhere, Radio, Extra: Dynamic, Selective); 2 pts
Force Lifting: Move Object 15 (Extra: Dynamic); 2 pts

EQUIPMENT:
(10ep)
Heavy Pistol: Ballistic Ranged Damage 4; 100 ft range, Small; 8ep

OFFENSE:
Initiative +2
Close Attack +6 [Unarmed +3]
Ranged Attack +7 [Pistol +4]
Power Ring +9 [Force Blast +15; Force Constructs +15; Force Lifting +15]

DEFENSES:
Dodge +10 [DC20] Parry +10 [DC20]
Toughness +4 (+14 with Force Field, +6 Impervious with Force Field), Fortitude +9, Will +15

COMPLICATIONS:
Guilt: He blames himself for the racing accident that left his brother-in-law in a coma
Power Loss: The power ring needs periodic recharging and issues a warning as its power runs low
Relationships: His family, mainly his sister Siri, and his niece
Reputation: Suspected terrorist and car thief
Responsibility: To protect his space sector as the Green Lantern of Sector 2814
Weakness: Green Lantern power rings depend on the willpower of the wearer; the maximum rank of the ring’s effects is equal to the wearer’s Will rank, and moments of self-doubt or hesitation can cause the ring to fail

Abilities 40 + Skills 17 (34 ranks) + Advantages 10 + Powers 103 + Defenses 31 = 201 / 201

Comments: OK, I give. Geoff Johns can make me buy anything. Dude could write a Real Housewives of New Jersey comic and I would have to buy it. (I HATE, HATE, HATE all the Real Housewives shows by the way. And HATE may not be a strong enough word…) Between him and Scott Snyder, they are breaking me every month. After I saw the original drawings of Simon Baz and heard that they were introducing him as an Arab-American character, I was dead set I was going to drop Green Lantern until Hal and/or Sinestro were returned. As a black man who suffered through a horrible dearth of good black characters for a long time, I certainly am fine with increasing diversity in the comics from all sides, but I was ticked because I felt Johns was using GL to some comics affirmative action.

But damn if I didn’t end up liking Baz. And Johns told a great story that I thought needed to be told from the Muslim/Arab American viewpoint. I’m not going to go into the details, you can find them on various other sites, but IMHO, I thought Johns did a great job. It will be interesting to see how he develops him.

As a build, he’s a fairly unknown commodity at this point, so outside of the standard ring array, I am iffy on his strengths and weaknesses, but of course, as he develops, I can update the build. Since he’s a new GL, I put him at PL11, higher than I would put most rookie GLs, but still way below the other experienced Earth GLs. But I’m sure he’ll get a massive push and be right up there with Kyle, Guy and John in no time. At the end of GL #13, they tease a fight between him and the Justice League which just wreaks of “new character pwns the JL to show how cool he is” a’comin’, but I hope that’s not the case.

Clean Up 2/24/13: Took Baz up to PL12 after seeing a bit more of him. Seems like a natural ring slinger, at least while Johns is writing him.

[Batgirl III]

Geoff Johns, like your’s truly, is a Michigander. Johns was born in Detroit, and raised in the suburbs of Grosse Point and Clarkston, eventually going to Michigan State University. Geoff Johns is also of half-Lebanese ancestry… So, yeah, an Arab-American from suburban Detroit is going to be writing a book about an Arab-American from suburban Detroit. Call me crazy, but I think that's a pretty clear-cut case of "write what you know."

Having said all that, one of my absolute favorite comics ever was the 18-issue series Green Lantern: Mosaic starring John Stewart and dealing explictly and intentionally about race, racism, and diversity. It was critically lauded and loved by the fans -- even if DC editorial killed it -- and it was written by a 40-something white dude from Montana. So, go figure...

I picked up Green Lantern (Vol. 5) #0 just a few days ago, as some controversy over the fact that the Post-9/11 treatment of Arab-Americans was a big part of his origin story was kicking up quite a ruckus before it was even printed. I enjoyed the whole book... not enough to add Green Lantern to my already too-damn-long "pull list" at the local comic shop, but I'll probably pick up collected trades down the line.

The street Simon Baz is seen driving the stolen van down in the first few pages? Yeah, that's a real part of Dearborn, I've driven past there many a time. Being Arab-American, dealing with Post-9/11 crap, and being a lapsed muslim are all parts of Baz's background... but the comic is by no means a polemic or a diatribe. It grounds him in real and recent events of serious historical importance and speaks to a reality a lot of us in metro-Detroit have had to face these past twelve years. (I hate his costume though... well, no, I just hate the Luchador mask, the rest is pretty cool.)

[Thorpacolypse]

We're staying out in space for another new build for Aisle 2!


Goodbye, mother planet. This native son is leaving your nest...for good. Please, everyone, be well...and don't think badly of me. I didn't succeed in everything I set out to do, but I tried my best. What more could I do? - Quasar

QUASAR (WENDELL VAUGHN)
PL: 14 (237 pts) - OPL: 14 ; DPL: 13

ABILITIES: STRENGTH 2, STAMINA 2, AGILITY 2, DEXTERITY 3, FIGHTING 6, INTELLECT 2, AWARENESS 3, PRESENCE 2

SKILLS: Athletics 3 (+5), Deception 4 (+6), Expertise [Cosmic Lore] 9 (+11), Expertise [SHIELD Agent] 5 (+7), Insight 2 (+5), Intimidation (+2), Perception 3 (+6), Persuasion 5 (+7), Ranged Combat [Quantum Energy Control] 3 (+11), Stealth (+2), Technology 3 (+5), Vehicles 3 (+6)

ADVANTAGES: Benefit (2) (Status 2 – Protector of The Universe), Close Attack (3), Defensive Roll (1), Leadership, Ranged Attack (5), Teamwork

POWERS:
Quantum Awareness: Senses 7 (Detect Energy [Mental, Ranged, Acute, Analytical, Extended 2] Communication Link [Mental, Eon/Epoch]); 6 pts
Quick Change: Features 1 (Quick Change); 1 pt
Universal Translator: Comprehend 4 (Speak, Read, Understand, Write, All Languages); 8 pts
Quantum Light: Environment 2 (60 ft; Light); 2 pts
Quantum Flight: Flight 12 (8,000 mph), Movement 4 (Environment Adaptation [Zero G], Space Travel 3); 32 pts
Force Field: Protection 12 (Flaw: Sustained), Impervious 6 (Flaw: Sustained), Immunity 10 (Life Support); 34 pts
Quantum Mind Shield: Enhanced Will Save 6 (Flaw: Limited to Mental Effects); 3 pts
Quantum Manipulation: 35 pt Dynamic array; 49 pts
Quantum Blast: Ranged Damage 17 (Extra: Dynamic); 35 pts
Quantum Constructs: Create 14 (Extra: Dynamic, Precise, Innate, Selective, Stationary, Tether); 2 pts
Quantum Burst: Burst Area Damage 14 (Extra: Area Burst [30 ft Burst], Dynamic); 2 pts
Quantum Bubble: Immunity 10 (Life Support, Extra: Dynamic, Affects Others Only, Area Burst, Ranged); 2 pts
Quantum Snare: Ranged Affliction 11 (1st: Hindered and Vulnerable, 2nd: Defenseless and Immobilized; Extra: Dynamic, Alternate Resistance [Resisted by Dodge], Cumulative, Extra Condition, Flaw: Limited to two Degrees); 2 pts
Quantum Weapons: Strength-based Damage 7 (Extra: Dynamic, Variable Descriptor 2 [Bludgeoning/Piercing/Slashing]); 2 pts
Quantum Absorption: Impervious 12 (Extra: Dynamic, Linked, Flaw: Sustained, Limited to Energy), Enhanced Quantum Burst 14 (Extra: Dynamic, Linked, Flaw: Fades); 2 pts
Quantum Jump: Movement 3 (Space Travel 3; Extras: Affects Others, Area 2 [60 ft], Dynamic, Instantaneous (occurs instantly each time used), Selective, Flaw: Tiring); 2 pts

EQUIPMENT:
NONE

OFFENSE:
Initiative +2
Close Attack +9 [Unarmed +2; Quantum Weapons +9]
Ranged Attack +8
Quantum Bands +11 [Quantum Blast +17; Quantum Objects +14; Quantum Snare +11]
Special Attack [Quantum Burst +14, Area Burst]

DEFENSES:
Dodge +11 [DC21] Parry +9 [DC19]
Toughness +3 (+12 with Force Field, +6 Impervious with Force Field), Fortitude +8, Will +10 (+16 against Mental Effects)

COMPLICATIONS:
Inferiority Complex: Wendell sometimes questions his ability to operate as the Protector of the Universe and to be involved with the powerful beings he often encounters
Power Loss: Quasar's Absorbing powers do not work against effects created by Magic, or consisting of Darkforce
Power Loss: While Wendell's Quantum Bands are bonded to him, it is possible for him to be separated from them and if this occurs, he loses all his powers and becomes impaired until his body his time to adjust to the loss
Responsibility: Protector of the Universe

Abilities 44 + Skills 20 (40 ranks) + Advantages 13 + Powers 135 + Defenses 25 = 237 / 237

Comments: I haven’t really read much Quasar stuff over the years until Annihilators. He was pretty decent in that as they made his character the “the little Earth guy trying to save the universe with the Silver Surfer, Gladiator, Ronan and Beta Ray Bill, what the hell am I doing here?” guy. It’s been OK, but not new ground by any means.

As a build, I basically took the GL template and tweaked it since that’s pretty much what I’ve seen of him. He’s got plenty of power, but he’s still got to work to hang with the big cosmic boys.

[JetstreamGW]

Fillion might make a good Major Victory, but I doubt we'll see him in the GOTG film. It's pretty much been stated to be the Star Lord/Raccoon/Drax group.

On another note...

Sarn is a trained soldier and tactician and was becoming a strong GL until his legs got blasted off. But Isamot, being able to regrow his limbs, gave him a blood transfusion which allowed them to grow back. But I haven't seen him since, so either he croaked off page or Johns just isn't using him.

It's been a while but didn't Isamot actually give Vath his actual legs?

I seem to remember a scene where Vath was trying to decide whether to be touched or angry.

[ClassDunce]

Yay! Star Lord! Considering the director's tendencies I do hope that we get Fillion playing him in the upcoming flick

I've been thinking about this a little bit lately and honestly I'm of the opinion that Timothy Olyphant would be fantastic as Star Lord. Justified has more than proven that he can be a tough guy, a funny guy and world wearied worn down and dangerous man all at the same time. Fillion can do that too but there's a different edge to the way Olyphant pulls that off that I think suits Star Lord a little better.

Star Lord should be a little bit more Raylan Givens than Mal Reynolds.

[Thorpacolypse]

It's been a while but didn't Isamot actually give Vath his actual legs?

I seem to remember a scene where Vath was trying to decide whether to be touched or angry.

You are correct, sir, I misremembered the scene. Isamot did give Vath his legs because he knew he could grow them back. And Vath was definitely angry when he saw the lizard legs, and Iolande had to come in and break up the fight. But of course, they made up and Vath appreciated the gesture in the end.

[Thorpacolypse]

For our next special, we're taking a look at real people who many people would consider REAL SUPERS. Our first item is a CAN'T MISS SPECIAL!


Eat your heart out Lawton...

BOB MUNDEN
PL: 9 (55 pts) - OPL: 9 ; DPL: 9

ABILITIES: STRENGTH 1, STAMINA 1, AGILITY 0, DEXTERITY 7, FIGHTING 1, INTELLECT 0, AWARENESS 1, PRESENCE 0

SKILLS: Athletics (+1), Expertise [Trick Shooting] 12 (+12), Insight 2 (+3), Perception 4 (+5), Ranged Combat [Pistols] 4 (+15)

ADVANTAGES: Accurate Attack, Equipment (2), Improved Aim, Improved Critical (1) (Firearms), Precise Attack (1) (Ranged, Cover), Quick Draw, Ranged Attack (4), Skill Mastery (1) (Ranged Combat [Pistols])

ENHANCED ADVANTAGES (FASTEST GUN ALIVE): Improved Initiative (5)

POWERS:
Fastest Gun Alive: Extra: Multiattack on Pistol Attacks, Enhanced Advantages 5 (Improved Initiative 5, Flaw: Limited to when using pistols); 6 pts

EQUIPMENT:
(10ep)
Light Pistol: Ballistic Ranged Damage 3; 75ft range, Small; 6ep

OFFENSE:
Initiative +20
Close Attack +1 [Unarmed +1]
Ranged Attack +11
Pistols +15 [Pistol +3, Critical 19-20, Multiattack]

DEFENSES:
Dodge +2 [DC12] Parry +1 [DC11]
Toughness +1, Fortitude +2, Will +2

COMPLICATIONS:
Relationships: His wife, Becky, and two daughters

Abilities 22 + Skills 11 (22 ranks) + Advantages 12 + Powers 6 + Defenses 4 = 55 / 55

Comments: So I saw Bob Munden on Stan Lee’s Superhumans a year or so ago and I kept thinking I would get around to him sooner. I remember seeing him on the old, old Guiness Book of Records Show back in the 80’s once I saw him there but I don’t remember him being so awesome. Bob has been the fastest quick draw in the world pretty much forever. He’s 68 now and hasn’t lost a millisecond off his draw. It’s amazing. Watch this clip if you haven’t seen it and tell me that’s not something that would even make Deadshot go “damn”:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thCl_mYIUBE

I might have gone a little high on the attack bonus, but I feel pretty good about everything else. Still, considering that two balloon shot, I think that +15 may be warranted. Not to mention the fact that he's also made a 600 yard shot with an old school rifle. The man is amazing.