Other Comics

ROM #1 – 4(2016)

Comic Books Library
by Comic Books Library August 07, 2025
ROM #1 – 4(2016)


ROM #1–4 (2016) – Earthfall Arc Breakdown 🚀

📚 Genre

Science Fiction | Superhero | Action | Cosmic Adventure

Blending high-octane superhero action with rich sci-fi world-building, ROM (2016) is a cosmic space opera packed with mystery, alien warfare, and emotional depth.

đŸ‘€ Main Characters

  • Rom – A noble Space Knight from the Solstar Order, armed with the powerful Neutralizer and on a mission to cleanse Earth of Dire Wraiths.

  • Darby Mason – A brave human caught in the crossfire, who quickly becomes Rom’s trusted ally.

  • Dire Wraiths – Shapeshifting parasitic aliens, master manipulators, and Rom’s sworn enemies.

  • Camilla Byers – A former soldier haunted by the past and transformed by the truth behind the Wraiths.

✍️ Writer

Christos Gage and Chris Ryall co-pen this revitalized saga. Gage, known for Avengers Academy and Spider-Man, brings character-driven storytelling, while Ryall, IDW’s former Editor-in-Chief, injects a bold new direction for ROM.

🎹 Artist

David Messina (Star Trek, Angel) delivers crisp, cinematic visuals. His art combines sleek sci-fi environments with expressive character designs and kinetic action sequences.

🧑‍đŸ’Œ Editor Details

Edited under the sharp eye of Sarah Gaydos, known for her passion for revitalizing legacy characters with modern storytelling sensibilities.

🏱 Publisher and Brand

Published by IDW Publishing, ROM (2016) is part of IDW's Hasbro shared universe, standing alongside titles like Transformers, G.I. Joe, and Micronauts.

📅 Release Year

2016

This series debuted following Rom’s re-introduction in Free Comic Book Day #0, which built anticipation for his full return.

🧬 Brief Plot Summary

In Earthfall, the long-lost hero Rom descends upon Earth in pursuit of the sinister Dire Wraiths—alien infiltrators who wear human skin and manipulate from the shadows. His arrival is met with confusion and fear, as he neutralizes Wraiths disguised as regular citizens. As the world questions his motives, Rom gains allies and uncovers a deeper invasion than even he anticipated. The arc explores themes of trust, identity, and sacrifice in a war few even know is happening.

📖 Notable Arcs or Storylines

  • Earthfall (Issues #1–4) – The kickoff storyline that reintroduces Rom to a new generation. It sets the tone for the entire series, revealing the scale of the Dire Wraith infiltration and establishing a grounded but grand threat to humanity.

This arc successfully combines mystery and sci-fi with the paranoia of an invisible alien invasion.

🌀 Fan Theories or Interpretations

One popular theory among readers suggests that the Dire Wraiths may be connected to other alien races within the Hasbro universe—possibly paving the way for a ROM vs. Transformers storyline. Another interpretation points to the allegorical nature of the Wraiths, representing hidden societal fears, misinformation, and mistrust—making ROM a metaphor for truth and moral clarity in murky times.

⭐ Review Summary

ROM (2016) #1–4 is a triumphant return for a cult-classic character. The story is emotionally resonant and tightly plotted, with Rom portrayed as both warrior and reluctant hero. The artwork by David Messina enhances the high-stakes tension with polished visuals and sleek alien tech design. Rom’s internal conflict—balancing duty with compassion—adds layers to his character, making this arc more than just a battle of good vs. evil.

👍 Verdict: A must-read for sci-fi fans and those curious about cosmic heroes beyond the Marvel-DC spectrum.

đŸ–Œ️ Art: 8.5/10
✍️ Story: 8/10
🧠 Character Depth: 8/10

#ROM #IDWPublishing #SpaceKnight #ComicBookReview #Earthfall #SciFiComics #DireWraiths


Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)

ROM #1 – 4(2016)
Language : English