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Fan of Robocop? Fan of Terminator? Then you are going to love Robocop vs Terminator, a Frank Miller comic that brings these two iconic machines together in an epic crossover. Just one of these elements is good by itself, but when you mix all of these elements together, you get yourself one delicious burrito that is good to go. No need to add hot sauce to the mix, since the story already has contents too hot to touch. I’m talking blood, guts and tragedy. With a dash of despair, it’s almost as if the author knew God’s secret recipe for this disastrous thing we call “humanity”.
Robocop vs Terminator is a four-issue limited series (or one graphic novel) about the end of humanity, and explores how Alex Murphy, the cyborg police officer from Detroit aka Robocop, becomes responsible for both saving and destroying all humans on earth. It turns out that when Robocop’s human consciousness was combined with technology, it created the sentience that led to Skynet and the Terminators being born. The last human on earth goes back in time to kill Alex Murphy before he could become Robocop, setting up a thrilling time travel adventure. From this, Robocop discovers the true weight of his existence in the future war against the machines.
The series intricately weaves elements from both the RoboCop and Terminator universes. Skynet, in a bid to preserve its future, sends three Terminators back to Detroit. Their mission? Protect RoboCop from a lone human soldier determined to erase him from existence. This clash of intentions sets the stage for a gripping narrative.
As the story unfolds, RoboCop uncovers a startling truth: his own technology is partly to blame for Skynet’s creation. This revelation propels him on a solitary quest to dismantle Skynet in a dystopian future. His human consciousness, Alex J. Murphy, becomes a digital ghost, navigating Skynet’s systems and biding his time for a tactical strike. Decades later, when Skynet’s focus shifts due to an assault by the last human resistance, Murphy seizes the moment. Crafting a Terminator body that mirrors his former self, he escapes, narrowly avoiding destruction by human fighters. Once he proves his allegiance, a new alliance forms, plotting Skynet’s ultimate downfall.
This blend of time travel, existential reflection, and epic battles crafts a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is action-packed, making it a standout in both the RoboCop and Terminator sagas.
I hope I am not giving anything away by saying this, but Robocop ends up fighting Terminators in the future, alongside the human resistance, with advanced weaponry. The result of combining both classic fighting machines together is very cool. I love every inch of this awesome story. I have always been a fan of both Robocop and Terminator, but the distance that Frank Miller takes such a topic is incredible. Stop whatever you are doing right now and get this comic in your hands. At the time of this writing, it is available in collected editions (affiliate link) including a hardcover version from Dark Horse Comics.
Influence and Games
The graphic novel stands out as a masterpiece in the realm of science fiction crossovers. Its gripping storyline effectively combines two iconic franchises, providing a thrilling journey for readers. The collaboration between writer Frank Miller and artist Walter Simonson elevates the storytelling to a whole new level, blending action-packed visuals with thought-provoking narratives. Furthermore, the artwork showcases a distinctive and memorable style that resonates with fans of both series, solidifying its exceptional status within the genre.
I probably should also mention that they made this Robocop vs Terminator into a video game. The Robocop vs Terminator game was available for the Super Nintendo and the Sega Genesis, and it was awesome as well. Personally, I preferred the Sega Genesis version because it was bloody, and there was a code that put sexy women into the game (seriously). Yes, I love violent video games. Playing Sega Genesis games are no problem (SNES games too) because you can buy either real or knockoff consoles surprisingly cheap. You can even get a combination NES, SNES, and Genesis as one console! Time has been good to technology.
Terminator Comic and Movie Differences
In the comic series, the portrayal of Terminators takes a distinct turn from their cinematic counterparts. One of the most notable differences is the degree of autonomy they display. Unlike the film versions, which strictly adhere to Skynet’s orders with mechanical precision, the comics suggest a greater personal initiative among these machines. This freedom of thought aligns with following Skynet’s ideology in a manner reminiscent of historical totalitarian groups, where loyalty surpasses mere programming.
However, there are limits to this autonomy. While the Terminators in the comics seem more ideologically driven, their expressions of loyalty often lack depth. They frequently resort to repeating slogans programmed by Skynet, indicating that their commitment may be more superficial than deeply ingrained. This suggests a paradox where they appear sentient yet remain bound by the constraints of their code.
The Appeal of Frank Miller
One of the main reasons people gravitate towards Miller’s work is because of his individual art style. His confident lines and deep shades make everything feel gloomy and grubby to an extent that’s just inimitable. This style fits the brutal future presented in Robocop vs Terminator so well. Miller’s artwork brings the futuristic world alive with every panel depicting a tangible sense of peril and hopelessness. Another reflection of his prowess as an artist is his keen eye for detail displayed through every meticulous line and shade he uses. Each character, from Robocop to the Terminators and even the ED-209, stands out as distinctly unforgettable owing to their exceptional design and idiosyncrasies.
Apart from the art itself, what sets Miller’s work apart is his unique storytelling. Miller has a knack for creating deep and compelling characters that you cannot help but feel for. In the story, we witness two leading heroes challenged in a battle with their own dark sides to determine the course of humanity’s destiny. The portrayal of these characters by Miller delves into their inner souls, thereby infusing realism into them. Consequently, they become identifiable as humans, despite one being a cyborg and the other a relentless machine. The level of characterization achieved in this story is what distinguishes Miller from other writers in the same literary field.
Another element that makes Miller stand out is his capability to address serious and intricate themes through his work. This comic is an excellent instance of this. The plot deals with concepts related to artificial intelligence, human consciousness, and what we have done or are capable of doing as effects of our actions in our life. Through Miller’s interpretation of these themes, they add more meaning to the story, making it something more than just another superhero comic. It forces readers to question their own beliefs and moral compass, making for a more engaging and thought-provoking read.
Ultimately, the way Miller tells his stories is fun, and the Robocop vs Terminator crossover is no exception. Whether you’re a fan of Robocop, Terminator, or just great storytelling, this comic book adaptation is a must-read for anyone who loves action-packed science fiction with a deep, philosophical undercurrent.