What do you think?
Rate this book
Cult of the Lamb #1
Cult of the Lamb Vol. 1: The First Verse
In partnership with Devolver Digital and Massive Monster, Oni Press proudly presents Cult of the Lamb: The First Verse—the hugely anticipated first graphic novel exploration into the sprawling cosmology of the millions-selling, multiple BAFTA Award–nominated video game phenomenon that has Polygon begging players to "smash that worship button"!
In a land pervaded by cruelty and evil, the most innocent among us—young Lamb—was selected to become a noble sacrifice. . . . Their death would be the magical rite that would forever seal the darkest of the Old Gods out of our realm and usher in a new age of bounty.
So Lamb died . . . but then they made a deal of their own.
At the crossroads of eternity, Lamb was met by the imprisoned deity known as the One Who Waits, who revealed the falsehoods and distortions of the false prophets who rule the world and the Old Faith. And so, Lamb was given a choice: Enter oblivion as intended . . .or return to the land of living with unholy powers and deliver a new cult unto the Earth.
The Four Bishops of the Old Faith must fall. The disbelievers must be destroyed. And, as Lamb assembles their flock, a new master shall reign over all of creation. Praise be to the Cult of the Lamb!
From acclaimed writer Alex Paknadel (All Against All, Red Goblin) and Eisner Award–nominated artist Troy Little (Rick and Morty vs. Dungeons & Dragons, Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas) comes a deviously delightful, heretic-smashing excursion into the borderlands of the worldwide video game hit that IGN calls "adorably demonic."
Collects Cult of the Lamb (2024) #1–4.
In a land pervaded by cruelty and evil, the most innocent among us—young Lamb—was selected to become a noble sacrifice. . . . Their death would be the magical rite that would forever seal the darkest of the Old Gods out of our realm and usher in a new age of bounty.
So Lamb died . . . but then they made a deal of their own.
At the crossroads of eternity, Lamb was met by the imprisoned deity known as the One Who Waits, who revealed the falsehoods and distortions of the false prophets who rule the world and the Old Faith. And so, Lamb was given a choice: Enter oblivion as intended . . .or return to the land of living with unholy powers and deliver a new cult unto the Earth.
The Four Bishops of the Old Faith must fall. The disbelievers must be destroyed. And, as Lamb assembles their flock, a new master shall reign over all of creation. Praise be to the Cult of the Lamb!
From acclaimed writer Alex Paknadel (All Against All, Red Goblin) and Eisner Award–nominated artist Troy Little (Rick and Morty vs. Dungeons & Dragons, Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas) comes a deviously delightful, heretic-smashing excursion into the borderlands of the worldwide video game hit that IGN calls "adorably demonic."
Collects Cult of the Lamb (2024) #1–4.
104 pages, Paperback
Expected publication December 3, 2024
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
September 25, 2024
2.5 stars. I love Cult of the Lamb, in particular the art style, and this was honestly kind of a bummer. The balance of cute and gory art is great, the character designs and the story fit right in and added an interesting amount of lore to what already existed in the game, and it was a quick and easy read, but unfortunately, I can't shake the feeling that it's not actually finished.
This feels sloppy and as if it was put together by people with little to no comic/graphic novel experience—a lot of the pages/panels are visually distressing in the wrong way; these pages will feature great art, but there’s so much of it and it all overlaps in ways that muddy the image/make it hard to read rather than making things exciting and dynamic. There were inconsistencies in plot/characters/art across the pages, the writing was weak and needed a bit less cringe dialogue, and I just can’t see myself spending money on this. I sort of think I would be upset if I had, and even as a huge fan of the game, I don’t feel that this gives me much reason to continue with further installments.
TLDR: This feels like when EA released The Sims 4 with half the features missing and you couldn't even have a pool. Disappointing, but not terrible; probably still going to be worth it for some fans of the game!
A sincere thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This feels sloppy and as if it was put together by people with little to no comic/graphic novel experience—a lot of the pages/panels are visually distressing in the wrong way; these pages will feature great art, but there’s so much of it and it all overlaps in ways that muddy the image/make it hard to read rather than making things exciting and dynamic. There were inconsistencies in plot/characters/art across the pages, the writing was weak and needed a bit less cringe dialogue, and I just can’t see myself spending money on this. I sort of think I would be upset if I had, and even as a huge fan of the game, I don’t feel that this gives me much reason to continue with further installments.
TLDR: This feels like when EA released The Sims 4 with half the features missing and you couldn't even have a pool. Disappointing, but not terrible; probably still going to be worth it for some fans of the game!
A sincere thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 21, 2024
Thank you, Oni Press, for the ARC.
Sadly, the art has so many graphic details and the plot rather too dark for me. Otherwise, the video game lovers would really love this comic book.
Sadly, the art has so many graphic details and the plot rather too dark for me. Otherwise, the video game lovers would really love this comic book.
October 4, 2024
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
If you want to read this book you should definitely have in mind that it's originally a game and not a graphic novel. Therefore the lamb has they/them pronouns, (since the player could be both female and male), choices are individually in game but chosen in a certain way for this graphic novel and of course it might just feels like being in a game while reading, though I think it was good implemented. The graphic novel isn't that different from the original game, appearances stayed the same and most part of the story line. But we will get moments that didn't happen in the game, making the graphic novels unique in its own ways.
I personally really liked the drawing style and how the little lamb could look innocent and scared, but at the same time mighty and fearless. That's also the personality for the lamb. For the beginning it was scared, but when it got its own cult and power it learned to fear nothing, but in the end we get a heart touching moment (which didn't happen in the game), which made me really sad, but also made me able to see how vulnerable the lamb still can be. Even though we never got a real name or any pronouns (that indicates gender) for our protagonist, the lamb still feels real by having its own personality. While you have the freedom to make your own decisions in the game, the graphic novel makes them themselves, but in a satisfying and justified way. The lamb might appear evil, but it still has a pure heart and the typical hero personality, trying to save everyone who it can. That makes the graphic novel a lot enjoyable, as the lamb gets its own personality and sometimes even small moments that didn't appear in the game.
I can't say a lot to the graphic novel yet as I didn't read a lot so far, the pacing is great regarding the length of each volume, but I wished the volumes might be a big longer. Nevertheless, the four volumes I was able to read in just an hour were really great and I'm looking forward to be reading more of it.
Recommended to anyone who likes action based storylines and video games. More specifically; Anyone who likes Animal Crossing should have at least tried to read this one. Even though Animal Crossing is expecting less from the player, the animal aspects and designing/managing your town (in this case cult) is the same.
Thank you NetGalley and Oni Press for the advanced reader copy of Cult of the Lambs Vol. 1 by Alex Paknadel and Troy Little.
Started the book: 04. October 2024
Finished the book: 04. October 2024
Wrote the review: 04. October 2024
If you want to read this book you should definitely have in mind that it's originally a game and not a graphic novel. Therefore the lamb has they/them pronouns, (since the player could be both female and male), choices are individually in game but chosen in a certain way for this graphic novel and of course it might just feels like being in a game while reading, though I think it was good implemented. The graphic novel isn't that different from the original game, appearances stayed the same and most part of the story line. But we will get moments that didn't happen in the game, making the graphic novels unique in its own ways.
I personally really liked the drawing style and how the little lamb could look innocent and scared, but at the same time mighty and fearless. That's also the personality for the lamb. For the beginning it was scared, but when it got its own cult and power it learned to fear nothing, but in the end we get a heart touching moment (which didn't happen in the game), which made me really sad, but also made me able to see how vulnerable the lamb still can be. Even though we never got a real name or any pronouns (that indicates gender) for our protagonist, the lamb still feels real by having its own personality. While you have the freedom to make your own decisions in the game, the graphic novel makes them themselves, but in a satisfying and justified way. The lamb might appear evil, but it still has a pure heart and the typical hero personality, trying to save everyone who it can. That makes the graphic novel a lot enjoyable, as the lamb gets its own personality and sometimes even small moments that didn't appear in the game.
I can't say a lot to the graphic novel yet as I didn't read a lot so far, the pacing is great regarding the length of each volume, but I wished the volumes might be a big longer. Nevertheless, the four volumes I was able to read in just an hour were really great and I'm looking forward to be reading more of it.
Recommended to anyone who likes action based storylines and video games. More specifically; Anyone who likes Animal Crossing should have at least tried to read this one. Even though Animal Crossing is expecting less from the player, the animal aspects and designing/managing your town (in this case cult) is the same.
Thank you NetGalley and Oni Press for the advanced reader copy of Cult of the Lambs Vol. 1 by Alex Paknadel and Troy Little.
Started the book: 04. October 2024
Finished the book: 04. October 2024
Wrote the review: 04. October 2024
September 18, 2024
Thank you, NetGalley and Omi, for the opportunity to read this e-ARC. The combination aesthetic of cute + scary has me in a tight chokehold. What a great tribute to the video game! I appreciate how this work refreshes the original narrative from the game, while giving the cult leader Lamb more voice, more personality.
From the first page, the use of color as well as the narrative’s high drama caught my attention. I wished the story didn’t skip through the foundation of Nana’s devotion to Lamb as well as Lamb gaining more devoted cult members. The narrative felt rushed in some places where I am sure it was hard to fill in the gaps created in the storyline through gameplay time.
I recommend this graphic novel for upper middle grade and young adult audiences as there are complex topics involving devotion, sacrifice, and manipulation of power. However, any fan of the video game will appreciate the art and the character development. The creators’ strive to captivate readers as the videogame sucked in players was successful.
From the first page, the use of color as well as the narrative’s high drama caught my attention. I wished the story didn’t skip through the foundation of Nana’s devotion to Lamb as well as Lamb gaining more devoted cult members. The narrative felt rushed in some places where I am sure it was hard to fill in the gaps created in the storyline through gameplay time.
I recommend this graphic novel for upper middle grade and young adult audiences as there are complex topics involving devotion, sacrifice, and manipulation of power. However, any fan of the video game will appreciate the art and the character development. The creators’ strive to captivate readers as the videogame sucked in players was successful.
October 5, 2024
I absolutely adore Cult of the Lamb as a video game, I've streamed it on my Twitch channel and beat the game so many times now so when I saw that they turned it into a graphic novel series you already know I had to read it ASAP.
It was everything I could have wanted and more! the first volume is essentially the game play leading up to the first boss battle of the game but obviously with more focus on the characters and the deeper lore (compared to the game at least). I loved the way the characters were brought to life. We still have all the characters we love from the game but they have so much more personality to them. really excited to see what the other volumes will have in store!
Go read it! it was a fun time and if you want more you can always go play the game! 😉
thank you sooo much Netgalley and Oni press for the ARC copy in exchange for an honest review!! (yes I did a little happy dance when I got approved for this one 🙈)
It was everything I could have wanted and more! the first volume is essentially the game play leading up to the first boss battle of the game but obviously with more focus on the characters and the deeper lore (compared to the game at least). I loved the way the characters were brought to life. We still have all the characters we love from the game but they have so much more personality to them. really excited to see what the other volumes will have in store!
Go read it! it was a fun time and if you want more you can always go play the game! 😉
thank you sooo much Netgalley and Oni press for the ARC copy in exchange for an honest review!! (yes I did a little happy dance when I got approved for this one 🙈)
September 25, 2024
The Cult of the Lamb graphic novel follows Lamb on his quest for vengeance after being murdered by the bishops. Through out the graphic novel he sets out to find followers for his cult and to save darkwood from the evils of the bishops.
The art in this graphic novel is absolutely stunning. The cuteness of Lamb and the other followers mixed with the gore from the fight scenes makes for a unique and unforgettable experience.
As a disclaimer I haven't played Cult of the Lamb, but I think I may have to now after reading this graphic novel. I definitely recommend this graphic novel for fans of the game.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for gifting me an ARC in exchange for an honest review
The art in this graphic novel is absolutely stunning. The cuteness of Lamb and the other followers mixed with the gore from the fight scenes makes for a unique and unforgettable experience.
As a disclaimer I haven't played Cult of the Lamb, but I think I may have to now after reading this graphic novel. I definitely recommend this graphic novel for fans of the game.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for gifting me an ARC in exchange for an honest review
September 28, 2024
I've never played or even watched a let's play of the "Cult of the Lamb" game but I was intrigued by it each time I was passing by it in the stores.
The design of a cute lamb, that usually represents innocence and weakness mixed with a cult setting . That's intriguing.
I feel like the story is a satire of what religions/cult are. You fight and worship something that you think better than anything even though they do the same atrocities as others "unworthy" cult.
Everyone in this universe believe in a kind of gods. They talked about the fact that this bad cult is concentrated in a territory and is just expending but I don't understand why our characters don't just leave the area. The last few pages implicitly tells us why but maybe it is because I never been a good follower but why would you leave in a area where you can get killed if you know that you can go elsewhere.
I guess that's the strength of faith
Every character in this book sucks. Everyone in this universe know what cult are like. Some of them were even picked as sacrifice but they still joined a random cult because it claimed to be the good guys . Rare are the cult that claims being in the wrong.
Lamb is not a likeable character. His anger and desire of vengeance in the beginning make sense but his guru persona don't.
I understand that he act like any other man of god, lying to get follower, promising a better way of life and outcome in life but I don't know/understand what he is doing.
Obviously, he can't lie about a god being real or not because he saw and met them (maybe in the end we learn that it was an hallucination🤷♀️) but he don't act like he worship any gods ? Even the one that gave him power.
Nana was cute but too naive for me to like her. She is the archetype of the cult member. She think that given herself completely will make her worthy of whatever will happen to her and that's not a mentality that I like .
The dog like character? I don't know his name but he is extremely sus . I'm 100% sure that he is not a follower. He is just greedy of the power Lamb was granted . He took the role of the leader when Lamb is away but he makes the most random decision and some of them look to deliberately to hurt the follower as if he wanted them to feel safer with him rather than with the "god choses"
It is not the best graphic to pick up if English is not your first language. There were moment when I did not understood anything for a long time.
The design of a cute lamb, that usually represents innocence and weakness mixed with a cult setting . That's intriguing.
I feel like the story is a satire of what religions/cult are. You fight and worship something that you think better than anything even though they do the same atrocities as others "unworthy" cult.
Everyone in this universe believe in a kind of gods. They talked about the fact that this bad cult is concentrated in a territory and is just expending but I don't understand why our characters don't just leave the area. The last few pages implicitly tells us why but maybe it is because I never been a good follower but why would you leave in a area where you can get killed if you know that you can go elsewhere.
I guess that's the strength of faith
Every character in this book sucks. Everyone in this universe know what cult are like. Some of them were even picked as sacrifice but they still joined a random cult because it claimed to be the good guys . Rare are the cult that claims being in the wrong.
Lamb is not a likeable character. His anger and desire of vengeance in the beginning make sense but his guru persona don't.
I understand that he act like any other man of god, lying to get follower, promising a better way of life and outcome in life but I don't know/understand what he is doing.
Obviously, he can't lie about a god being real or not because he saw and met them (maybe in the end we learn that it was an hallucination🤷♀️) but he don't act like he worship any gods ? Even the one that gave him power.
Nana was cute but too naive for me to like her. She is the archetype of the cult member. She think that given herself completely will make her worthy of whatever will happen to her and that's not a mentality that I like .
The dog like character? I don't know his name but he is extremely sus . I'm 100% sure that he is not a follower. He is just greedy of the power Lamb was granted . He took the role of the leader when Lamb is away but he makes the most random decision and some of them look to deliberately to hurt the follower as if he wanted them to feel safer with him rather than with the "god choses"
It is not the best graphic to pick up if English is not your first language. There were moment when I did not understood anything for a long time.
September 23, 2024
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC for early review.. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
As a disclaimer, I have not played the game, I am viewing this from the perspective of a reader. While I know of the game and am familiar with it enough to have some background context, I cannot compare the different medias to each other.
Cult of the Lamb is a solid introduction to the world of sacrifices, evil gods, and devil deals. A chibi art style is twisted by intense gore, cartoonish violence, and dark subject matter. This is a story of a creature who rises up against those who mistreated them and encourages others to do the same, but can we really call them heroes?
I think this is serviceable as a graphic novel, but unless you are a fan of the game, I don't see it having enough meat to really interest or hold attention. Perhaps in subsequent volumes, more story and plot will be explored, but it felt very much like coverage of the first hour of gameplay or a cutscene at the beginning of a game. I'm not sure how much of the story is covered by the game, but the motivations and major points of world building and the magic system are competently explained.
I don't find Lamb to be a likeable character. I think the only character that really interested me was Nana, but out of an already small cast of protagonists she struggles to stand on her own without being completely tied to Lamb in every way.
I don't think I will pick up volume 2, but this first volume serves as a good introduction to the world and characters, even if it is a little dull.
As a disclaimer, I have not played the game, I am viewing this from the perspective of a reader. While I know of the game and am familiar with it enough to have some background context, I cannot compare the different medias to each other.
Cult of the Lamb is a solid introduction to the world of sacrifices, evil gods, and devil deals. A chibi art style is twisted by intense gore, cartoonish violence, and dark subject matter. This is a story of a creature who rises up against those who mistreated them and encourages others to do the same, but can we really call them heroes?
I think this is serviceable as a graphic novel, but unless you are a fan of the game, I don't see it having enough meat to really interest or hold attention. Perhaps in subsequent volumes, more story and plot will be explored, but it felt very much like coverage of the first hour of gameplay or a cutscene at the beginning of a game. I'm not sure how much of the story is covered by the game, but the motivations and major points of world building and the magic system are competently explained.
I don't find Lamb to be a likeable character. I think the only character that really interested me was Nana, but out of an already small cast of protagonists she struggles to stand on her own without being completely tied to Lamb in every way.
I don't think I will pick up volume 2, but this first volume serves as a good introduction to the world and characters, even if it is a little dull.
September 24, 2024
TW: blood, gore, violence, blasphemy
Naive, young lamb has a taste for vengeance. Having recently been murdered, he strikes a deal with an old god. The deal is easy: create a cult and slay the gods who oppose them. But powers come at a cost, and our lamb soon realises that nobody can be trusted.
I’ve never played the game, but I’m a horror fan, and this comic absolutely hits the spot. It blends graphic violence with a cute art style, which is a very fresh take on the genre. Plus, for such a short first volume, this book feels much, much longer. We get a good chunk of lore and world building, but the writers don’t reveal enough to kill the suspense. When can I get volume 2?
Thank you to NetGalley for granting me access to the ARC. All my opinions are my own.
Naive, young lamb has a taste for vengeance. Having recently been murdered, he strikes a deal with an old god. The deal is easy: create a cult and slay the gods who oppose them. But powers come at a cost, and our lamb soon realises that nobody can be trusted.
I’ve never played the game, but I’m a horror fan, and this comic absolutely hits the spot. It blends graphic violence with a cute art style, which is a very fresh take on the genre. Plus, for such a short first volume, this book feels much, much longer. We get a good chunk of lore and world building, but the writers don’t reveal enough to kill the suspense. When can I get volume 2?
Thank you to NetGalley for granting me access to the ARC. All my opinions are my own.
September 13, 2024
Thank you, Oni press and NetGalley, for the arc! Here is an honest review!
This has me soooo ready to play the game! 🎮
I've heard many great things about Cult of the Lamb, and it has always intrigued me. This volume offers the backstory that I don't know if we get in the game. I think starting with this story and getting hints of what is to come plus the complex character building will make the gameplay must cooler for me.
Artstyle is amazing, the story is very cool! Highly recommend!
This has me soooo ready to play the game! 🎮
I've heard many great things about Cult of the Lamb, and it has always intrigued me. This volume offers the backstory that I don't know if we get in the game. I think starting with this story and getting hints of what is to come plus the complex character building will make the gameplay must cooler for me.
Artstyle is amazing, the story is very cool! Highly recommend!
September 22, 2024
cult of the lamb has become already one of my top video games, and the artist behind it has become one of my favorite artists. the mix of horror and gore and cutesy adorableness is just genius.
if you haven't played the game, this will be a nice intro to that world. if you have played the game, this will shed some light on some events and dig deeper into the forming of the cult.
i really can't wait for more volumes!!
if you haven't played the game, this will be a nice intro to that world. if you have played the game, this will shed some light on some events and dig deeper into the forming of the cult.
i really can't wait for more volumes!!
September 26, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Oni Press for providing an eARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
This a cute and creepy introduction into the world of Cult of the Lamb, but it very much feels like just a prologue. I think this could be the start of a fun series of adventures with Lamb, I love the world and it's creatures and they are definitely well-suited for this format, but on its own this instalment doesn't have too much to offer in terms of story so I would temper expectations if you're a fan of the game looking for additional lore. It's not here quite yet.
Some of the storytelling is a little choppy, the pacing too quick, but that's what I expected from the tiny page count and I have hopes this might improve.
The art style and colour palette are definitely the star of the show though, and I did also enjoy the dash of humour in the writing. I'm interested in seeing where this series goes.
------------------------------------
My rating system:
✧✧✧✧✧ - loved it, no complaints
✧✧✧✧ - loved it, some technical flaws
✧✧✧ - liked it
✧✧ - disappointing
✧ - unenjoyable
This a cute and creepy introduction into the world of Cult of the Lamb, but it very much feels like just a prologue. I think this could be the start of a fun series of adventures with Lamb, I love the world and it's creatures and they are definitely well-suited for this format, but on its own this instalment doesn't have too much to offer in terms of story so I would temper expectations if you're a fan of the game looking for additional lore. It's not here quite yet.
Some of the storytelling is a little choppy, the pacing too quick, but that's what I expected from the tiny page count and I have hopes this might improve.
The art style and colour palette are definitely the star of the show though, and I did also enjoy the dash of humour in the writing. I'm interested in seeing where this series goes.
------------------------------------
My rating system:
✧✧✧✧✧ - loved it, no complaints
✧✧✧✧ - loved it, some technical flaws
✧✧✧ - liked it
✧✧ - disappointing
✧ - unenjoyable
October 2, 2024
I really liked reading this adaptation! I’m a big fan of the game Cult of the Lamb, so being able to get an early look at the graphic novel was amazing!
The great thing about adaptations is that they change the existing media into something a bit more refined and intentional. The graphic novel Cult of the Lamb really diverts from the game Cult of the Lamb in a way that highlights the need for the player of the game to have humanity. Not to say that the Lamb doesn’t have humanity in them, it just comes later. We instead get more bloodthirsty vengeance from the Lamb right of the bat which I feel goes really well with the overall storyline.
As always, the cutesy art-style paired with the gore is so fun to see. I appreciate having slightly more fleshed out cult members with this adaptation! And the fact that all of the characters are basically genderless. This is a violent, sacrificial cult – who needs a gender?
The great thing about adaptations is that they change the existing media into something a bit more refined and intentional. The graphic novel Cult of the Lamb really diverts from the game Cult of the Lamb in a way that highlights the need for the player of the game to have humanity. Not to say that the Lamb doesn’t have humanity in them, it just comes later. We instead get more bloodthirsty vengeance from the Lamb right of the bat which I feel goes really well with the overall storyline.
As always, the cutesy art-style paired with the gore is so fun to see. I appreciate having slightly more fleshed out cult members with this adaptation! And the fact that all of the characters are basically genderless. This is a violent, sacrificial cult – who needs a gender?
October 4, 2024
I love comics and graphic novels! Especially like this one, where you can just sit down and devour the whole thing in like an hour. It is so much fun!
This volume contains the first four issues of the Cult of the Lamb (yes, there is a game for the Nintendo Switch with the same story and yes, I am now considering getting/playing it).
This story follows a lamb who is considered a heretic and is then chosen to start a cult. And, of course, things get chaotic because cults...that's what makes then a cult...
This had major Gravity Falls vibes to me. Between the illustration style (which was so cute and I adored) and the general tone and topic of this story...definitely would HIGHLY recommend for fans of Gravity Falls.
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
This volume contains the first four issues of the Cult of the Lamb (yes, there is a game for the Nintendo Switch with the same story and yes, I am now considering getting/playing it).
This story follows a lamb who is considered a heretic and is then chosen to start a cult. And, of course, things get chaotic because cults...that's what makes then a cult...
This had major Gravity Falls vibes to me. Between the illustration style (which was so cute and I adored) and the general tone and topic of this story...definitely would HIGHLY recommend for fans of Gravity Falls.
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
October 4, 2024
The art in Cult of the Lamb was bright and beautiful, and the imagery was nice and gory, but the story was a little juvenile for my tastes. I wanted the characters and world to be a little more fleshed out.
This may be a failing on my part as I haven't played the game, so for those who have already played the game and enjoy the world my struggles may not be an issue at all.
Thank you to Oni Press for giving me the opportunity to read this via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
This may be a failing on my part as I haven't played the game, so for those who have already played the game and enjoy the world my struggles may not be an issue at all.
Thank you to Oni Press for giving me the opportunity to read this via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
September 28, 2024
Much like the game, this is an interesting twist to something normal. The art style is excellent, and it is full of vivid scenery, both pastoral and macabre. The story is slow to start, but it gains speed and interest as it progresses. I can't wait for the next one!
October 6, 2024
SO SO GOOD! from the art style to the storytelling to the prose. i am floored at the details and the colours and the worldbuilding in this one.
October 6, 2024
Thank you Net Galley for the e arc. Cult of the Lamb is an adorable horror graphic novel. We follow Lamb as he ascends from mere existence to becoming a cult leader. The artwork is amazing and vibrant. The character development is also there which is great. I can't wait to see what comes next from the series.
June 2, 2024
As a Kickstarter backer, I received the digital version of Issue 1 as part of Vol 1. However, I must express my disappointment with the final result. What was supposed to be an enjoyable adaptation of the game turned out to be a 22-page rush job that lacked the necessary care and polish. The issue seemed to fly by in the worst way possible, not allowing enough time for character development or rule establishment. Furthermore, there were numerous instances where the writer seemed to overlook established rules or elements set up on the same page.
The lettering was poor, with terrible dialogue and dialogue placement. It contradicted itself on the same page. For example, it mentions how Lamb wants revenge several times, even by Lamb himself, but is chilling while eating an apple on page 20 while the dialogue on the same page indicates that it has been a few days. FEW DAYS? Since when did Lamb decide he had time to be patient? There is also a moment where it shows the Crown can possess you, but Lamb is seen with the Crown on, acting chill and not caring about Rattu's suggestion on page 19. Meanwhile, Rattu can teleport people with powers that should only be possible with the red crown he doesn't have on (by the way, what is happening in Panel 4 Page 17? It still doesn't add up with the next panel).
The art, though decently drawn and colored, also has issues due to the writing. It either doesn't follow what the dialogue is saying or there are mistakes. For example, characters disappear without explanation, like one of the followers on page 16, who dodges an attack and disappears without explanation. Lamb also has a weird bow tie thing in panel 2 of page 17.
This should have been 48 pages to let the story breathe and set up more about the characters and world. You can't just have 22 pages on something that requires action scenes, character development, world-building, and game references because you end up rushing through things and end up with a sloppy issue #1 where you feel like they wanted to get it over with.
That is this book in a nutshell. It feels like a rushed job to cash in on the game's popularity with a first draft that has glaring issues. With stuff like ISOM and Alphacore, both were terrible books but made by Eric July, a guy who is a complete amateur. So of course, those books had pacing, art, and writing problems. Cult of the Lamb Issue 1 is made by people with years of experience. People who won awards. They should know this wasn't ready to go, but it was sent out anyway. Thundercats #1 deserves an apology as though it rushed through its story, it wasn't this blatantly rushed.
It makes me worry about the upcoming issues and question the money I spent on the Kickstarter campaign. I hope it gets better, but I might end up selling my copy if the following issues don't improve.
Very disappointed.
The lettering was poor, with terrible dialogue and dialogue placement. It contradicted itself on the same page. For example, it mentions how Lamb wants revenge several times, even by Lamb himself, but is chilling while eating an apple on page 20 while the dialogue on the same page indicates that it has been a few days. FEW DAYS? Since when did Lamb decide he had time to be patient? There is also a moment where it shows the Crown can possess you, but Lamb is seen with the Crown on, acting chill and not caring about Rattu's suggestion on page 19. Meanwhile, Rattu can teleport people with powers that should only be possible with the red crown he doesn't have on (by the way, what is happening in Panel 4 Page 17? It still doesn't add up with the next panel).
The art, though decently drawn and colored, also has issues due to the writing. It either doesn't follow what the dialogue is saying or there are mistakes. For example, characters disappear without explanation, like one of the followers on page 16, who dodges an attack and disappears without explanation. Lamb also has a weird bow tie thing in panel 2 of page 17.
This should have been 48 pages to let the story breathe and set up more about the characters and world. You can't just have 22 pages on something that requires action scenes, character development, world-building, and game references because you end up rushing through things and end up with a sloppy issue #1 where you feel like they wanted to get it over with.
That is this book in a nutshell. It feels like a rushed job to cash in on the game's popularity with a first draft that has glaring issues. With stuff like ISOM and Alphacore, both were terrible books but made by Eric July, a guy who is a complete amateur. So of course, those books had pacing, art, and writing problems. Cult of the Lamb Issue 1 is made by people with years of experience. People who won awards. They should know this wasn't ready to go, but it was sent out anyway. Thundercats #1 deserves an apology as though it rushed through its story, it wasn't this blatantly rushed.
It makes me worry about the upcoming issues and question the money I spent on the Kickstarter campaign. I hope it gets better, but I might end up selling my copy if the following issues don't improve.
Very disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2024
Disclaimer: I received an e-ARC from netgalley in exchange for a review.
This is a short graphic novel adaptation of the video game Cult of the Lamb. Having played the game myself (although not through one full run yet, but gaining enough knowledge of the mechanics), I was intrigued to see what this adaptation would provide extra aside from the game. It provides some background information and gives a player character thoughts and opinions of their own, which I enjoyed. While this adaptation might move a bit too fast and provide scarcely enough information if you are not at all familiar with the source material, I do think for fans of the game it can be intriguing.
The art does capture the cuteness of the original game, while emphasizing the gore and disgusting aspects of it a lot more. Be prepared for gratuitous gore (which isn’t in the game that much), vomiting and the many, many piles of shit (this is part of the game!). For parts I was prepared due to knowing the game, but I also expected the gore, since I do think a cute art style and gore do mix well sometimes. They do mix well for this graphic novel. While it does feel like an intentionally dark run, this is done to explain some mechanics in the game and give Lamb a potential story arc to grow from, which was interesting, and which piqued my interest in the future volumes.
I am not personally sure that I would recommend this to someone who doesn’t know the game at all. From a purely reader perspective there is not that much to be gained from the story, as it is a very dense lore being portrayed in just about 100 pages. But if you are a fan of Cult of the Lamb and enjoy graphic novel adaptions of video games then you might enjoy this one just like I did!
Tw: suicide, gore, unsanitary, illness, vomit, excrements, sacrifice, death, cults, indoctrination
This is a short graphic novel adaptation of the video game Cult of the Lamb. Having played the game myself (although not through one full run yet, but gaining enough knowledge of the mechanics), I was intrigued to see what this adaptation would provide extra aside from the game. It provides some background information and gives a player character thoughts and opinions of their own, which I enjoyed. While this adaptation might move a bit too fast and provide scarcely enough information if you are not at all familiar with the source material, I do think for fans of the game it can be intriguing.
The art does capture the cuteness of the original game, while emphasizing the gore and disgusting aspects of it a lot more. Be prepared for gratuitous gore (which isn’t in the game that much), vomiting and the many, many piles of shit (this is part of the game!). For parts I was prepared due to knowing the game, but I also expected the gore, since I do think a cute art style and gore do mix well sometimes. They do mix well for this graphic novel. While it does feel like an intentionally dark run, this is done to explain some mechanics in the game and give Lamb a potential story arc to grow from, which was interesting, and which piqued my interest in the future volumes.
I am not personally sure that I would recommend this to someone who doesn’t know the game at all. From a purely reader perspective there is not that much to be gained from the story, as it is a very dense lore being portrayed in just about 100 pages. But if you are a fan of Cult of the Lamb and enjoy graphic novel adaptions of video games then you might enjoy this one just like I did!
Tw: suicide, gore, unsanitary, illness, vomit, excrements, sacrifice, death, cults, indoctrination
September 14, 2024
I got into Cult of the Lamb earlier this year and was one of the people who kickstarted this comic. So yes, I had my bias and expectations going into this read, and largely I was quite pleased. Especially because I learned an awesome new word - endling.
Overall, it's a tale of how the Lamb first grows into the role of cult leader, with some new backstory added of the lamb being betrayed by the farmer that protected them in exchange for shearing some wool. Starting out angry and vengeful, to where it's almost unsettling with how bloodthirsty the Lamb is, but ultimately wanting to be a kinder community leader than the gods of the Old Faith.
I did find it strange to see the Lamb and Ratau so at odds in the beginning, unlike in game, but it does make sense to introduce this as we make the Lamb more a character of their own and less a player vehicle. Less so is the change from Ratau questioning if the Lamb is worthy to being a truly devoted follower, which is a rather quick turn-around in these pages but is also in keeping with the game's brevity in its storytelling.
The differences aside, which Clauneck even notes asking if things are as we remember them being (and it's wild to learn he's a duck btw), there are clear nods to the game that make it clear how much this a labor of love. From the serious way the Lamb says they will not eat or sleep until their revenge is complete, a sly nod to how players don't have to do either, to the green slime in a cauldron that is grass gruel. And of course references to just how much the cult poops anywhere and everywhere
I do hope to see more such comics, as this and the recent Pilgrimage game update with an included motion comic shows there's promise to telling more stories in this world outside of the game!
Overall, it's a tale of how the Lamb first grows into the role of cult leader, with some new backstory added of the lamb being betrayed by the farmer that protected them in exchange for shearing some wool. Starting out angry and vengeful, to where it's almost unsettling with how bloodthirsty the Lamb is, but ultimately wanting to be a kinder community leader than the gods of the Old Faith.
I did find it strange to see the Lamb and Ratau so at odds in the beginning, unlike in game, but it does make sense to introduce this as we make the Lamb more a character of their own and less a player vehicle. Less so is the change from Ratau questioning if the Lamb is worthy to being a truly devoted follower, which is a rather quick turn-around in these pages but is also in keeping with the game's brevity in its storytelling.
The differences aside, which Clauneck even notes asking if things are as we remember them being (and it's wild to learn he's a duck btw), there are clear nods to the game that make it clear how much this a labor of love. From the serious way the Lamb says they will not eat or sleep until their revenge is complete, a sly nod to how players don't have to do either, to the green slime in a cauldron that is grass gruel. And of course references to just how much the cult poops anywhere and everywhere
I do hope to see more such comics, as this and the recent Pilgrimage game update with an included motion comic shows there's promise to telling more stories in this world outside of the game!
October 1, 2024
It is about cults. And yet, there is an element of trying to have redemption as well. The idea of Lamb (they/them) trying to get revenge for their death by the Old Faith/old regime is not new, but it isn’t completely dull and obvious, there are a few twists and turns. However, regardless of what I like about this several chapter graphic novel, it is a horror/thriller/fantasy adventure and there is death, sacrifices, limbs/parts chopped off, and blood. Alex Paknadel has an interesting idea of what passes for PG-13 text (so far the language has been okay, and the story arc itself is mostly friendly, not too edge). But it is that illustrator Troy Little (and Crank! and Nick Filardi the letterer and colorist) that decided to push the PG-13 rating. Like I said, there is blood. Lots of blood. And spooky monsters. And a one- eyed-sideways-rat-like creature. Not to mention teeth (what the heck is up with spiky teeth on characters? Okay, “scary monster,” but trust me, I get it. I don’t need them dagger-teeth!)
The story arc (worship, change, revenge, religious themes, all that good stuff) is okay. I’m not jumping up and down saying it is the best thing/best story, but I like where it is heading. Each chapter ends with a “dun dun dun” to be continued/same Bat-time; same Bat-channel feature. The characters may not be as fleshed out as readers would want, but they are not lacking. I haven’t finished yet (I still have chapter four to go), but I think I see where a few plot points are heading, but I’m hoping not, as I like the character, but then again, Jesus loved Judas.
Due early December 2024; read via an online reader copy.
The story arc (worship, change, revenge, religious themes, all that good stuff) is okay. I’m not jumping up and down saying it is the best thing/best story, but I like where it is heading. Each chapter ends with a “dun dun dun” to be continued/same Bat-time; same Bat-channel feature. The characters may not be as fleshed out as readers would want, but they are not lacking. I haven’t finished yet (I still have chapter four to go), but I think I see where a few plot points are heading, but I’m hoping not, as I like the character, but then again, Jesus loved Judas.
Due early December 2024; read via an online reader copy.
September 21, 2024
First off, I know almost NOTHING about the actual story of Cult of the Lamb. I've seen some of the memes (Where's Tobias? Where's my husband?) but I just recently found out that it's actually a Rouge Like game and not a spooky Cult-themed life sim like I thought it was. This story was decent! There were some plot pacing issues, but apparently, this graphic novel is a collection of 5 comic issues in one volume. Makes sense there's a slight disconnect between each chapter. The overall story was good and was coherent. This story is always way darker and gore-filled than I expected it to be. They went very hard into the horror elements of the story. Somehow, the dark story elements but with cutesy characters work in a strange way. If you have never played Cult of the Lamb, but you were still interested in the story, I think this would be a good way to experience the story. However, I do know that the game gives you choices of how to take your Cult, and there are different paths. The book sticks to only one line of choices, which I think would be the Neutral ending or the Good ending path? But still, overall I liked it!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
October 6, 2024
I received an arc of this graphic novel in exchange for an honest review.
This was so much fun to read. I really enjoy the Cult of the Lamb video game, and often watch content creators on Twitch and YouTube play it. That it's being turned into a graphic novel format is even more exciting though. I love that it might expand on the story some more in a different way. I love consuming media in different forms like this, and wasn't disappointed at all. I did feel it was a little disjointed so that is why it's only a 4.5 and not a 5, but that is still a really high rating. The story itself grabs you from the start, which is a plus, and I really loved the side characters like Nana. Nana was definitely my favorite. The art is so well-done. Beautiful seems an odd word to use when talking about this graphic novel that displays blood, gore, vomit, and poop in it, but nonetheless it's a fitting word. I definitely intend to recommend this to friends and family that I know who enjoy the game, and to my community in general.
This was so much fun to read. I really enjoy the Cult of the Lamb video game, and often watch content creators on Twitch and YouTube play it. That it's being turned into a graphic novel format is even more exciting though. I love that it might expand on the story some more in a different way. I love consuming media in different forms like this, and wasn't disappointed at all. I did feel it was a little disjointed so that is why it's only a 4.5 and not a 5, but that is still a really high rating. The story itself grabs you from the start, which is a plus, and I really loved the side characters like Nana. Nana was definitely my favorite. The art is so well-done. Beautiful seems an odd word to use when talking about this graphic novel that displays blood, gore, vomit, and poop in it, but nonetheless it's a fitting word. I definitely intend to recommend this to friends and family that I know who enjoy the game, and to my community in general.
September 24, 2024
"Not a temple... No. it was supposed to be a home."
Thank you to NetGalley and Oni press for this e-ARC. Cult of the Lamb Vol 1 contains the first four issues of the CotL comic and delivers a goregous graphic novel for fans of the rogue-lite game of the same name. I think you could enjoy this collection without having played the game; with four issues included, we have the time to briefly meet the Bishops, learn about the first major location in CotL lore, and meet characters who have a truly fantastic graphic novel adaptation.
Nana's arc was very well done and surprised me, and I loved seeing Ratau's growth and development as he starts out as a bitter, jaded, fanatical follower of Narinder/the chained god. I also loved the way Clauneck was depicted, as they're one of my favorite characters.
The graphics are just as whimsically dark and delightful as those in the game, and I would pick up future volumes. Happy reading!
Thank you to NetGalley and Oni press for this e-ARC. Cult of the Lamb Vol 1 contains the first four issues of the CotL comic and delivers a goregous graphic novel for fans of the rogue-lite game of the same name. I think you could enjoy this collection without having played the game; with four issues included, we have the time to briefly meet the Bishops, learn about the first major location in CotL lore, and meet characters who have a truly fantastic graphic novel adaptation.
Nana's arc was very well done and surprised me, and I loved seeing Ratau's growth and development as he starts out as a bitter, jaded, fanatical follower of Narinder/the chained god. I also loved the way Clauneck was depicted, as they're one of my favorite characters.
The graphics are just as whimsically dark and delightful as those in the game, and I would pick up future volumes. Happy reading!
October 1, 2024
I’ve not played Cult of the Lamb myself, but I do know enough of the game by watching Let’s Plays to have a fairly good grasp of the story and concept.
The graphic novel overall captures the vibes of the game; the cutesy art style, the gore, the fast and frantic pacing of the game/story.
However, I don’t think Cult of the Lamb is a game that necessarily needs a graphic novel tie in. The comic doesn’t provide any additional lore other than what you would find in the game. The only real addition to the story was giving Lamb a personality.
This graphic novel would be good for folks who love really love the game, but isn’t necessarily something I’d recommend to someone who hasn’t heard of the game itself as the story itself isn’t strong or interesting enough in its own right and left me with a strong ‘meh’ feeling after finishing.
[This review is based on NetGalley ARC provided in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion]
The graphic novel overall captures the vibes of the game; the cutesy art style, the gore, the fast and frantic pacing of the game/story.
However, I don’t think Cult of the Lamb is a game that necessarily needs a graphic novel tie in. The comic doesn’t provide any additional lore other than what you would find in the game. The only real addition to the story was giving Lamb a personality.
This graphic novel would be good for folks who love really love the game, but isn’t necessarily something I’d recommend to someone who hasn’t heard of the game itself as the story itself isn’t strong or interesting enough in its own right and left me with a strong ‘meh’ feeling after finishing.
[This review is based on NetGalley ARC provided in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion]
October 1, 2024
“Cult of the Lamb: The First Verse” by Alex Paknadel & Troy Little
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Summary: The Lamb, last of their kind, is sacrificed by the Bishops of the Old Faith. However, the one who waits below, offers the Lamb a deal: from a cult in their name, and defeat the Bishops and in return, unimaginable power will be given.
Thoughts:
This is a graphic novel based on the game, “Cult of the Lamb”. As a massive fan of the game, I absolutely loved this.
The artwork is stunning and really captured the essence of the game. The story was interesting, and does match up with the game, but appears to be forming it's own narrative.
Even if you haven't played the game, I feel people could easily pick this up. It doesn't rely on the reader having played it either; the story starts from the beginning of the game and adds in new things as well.
I'm so happy to have received this ARC so thank you to NetGalley and OniPress! 😘
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Summary: The Lamb, last of their kind, is sacrificed by the Bishops of the Old Faith. However, the one who waits below, offers the Lamb a deal: from a cult in their name, and defeat the Bishops and in return, unimaginable power will be given.
Thoughts:
This is a graphic novel based on the game, “Cult of the Lamb”. As a massive fan of the game, I absolutely loved this.
The artwork is stunning and really captured the essence of the game. The story was interesting, and does match up with the game, but appears to be forming it's own narrative.
Even if you haven't played the game, I feel people could easily pick this up. It doesn't rely on the reader having played it either; the story starts from the beginning of the game and adds in new things as well.
I'm so happy to have received this ARC so thank you to NetGalley and OniPress! 😘
October 3, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Oni Press for providing a review copy.
I have played and enjoyed Cult of the Lamb so was keen to read the graphic novel. The art is the same style as the game, making the book feel very familiar. During fight scenes, there is quite a lot going on on the page and it can be hard to make out what is happening. This makes the scenes feel fast paced and confusing, very similar to fighting in the game, although I think the book would have benefitted from a bit more clarity in these scenes.
The story also feels a little rushed. This could have been a great opportunity to flesh out the story of the lamb and the founding of their cult, but unfortunately we don't get to see much interaction between the followers as they build up the cult.
This is still a pretty enjoyable book, especially if you are a fan of the game, and I am looking forward to seeing more of the story.
I have played and enjoyed Cult of the Lamb so was keen to read the graphic novel. The art is the same style as the game, making the book feel very familiar. During fight scenes, there is quite a lot going on on the page and it can be hard to make out what is happening. This makes the scenes feel fast paced and confusing, very similar to fighting in the game, although I think the book would have benefitted from a bit more clarity in these scenes.
The story also feels a little rushed. This could have been a great opportunity to flesh out the story of the lamb and the founding of their cult, but unfortunately we don't get to see much interaction between the followers as they build up the cult.
This is still a pretty enjoyable book, especially if you are a fan of the game, and I am looking forward to seeing more of the story.
September 25, 2024
I’m a big fan of the game, but I will say the story of both the game and the books is weak. It’s kind of interesting that both the game and books suffer from the vague storytelling with little building. The whole story is very thin with the mechanics being the true appeal. The book suffers from a thin story but fails to save itself on another front. The character growth very quickly done and not much is seen. By the speed at which the plot was going, I thought that we were going to finish the game in this one book. Instead, the plot was very slow then quickly coming to conclusion. I will say the illustrator captured the artistic charm of the game. I loved the art.
I would pick it up to read at a library, but I wouldn’t add it to my shelf.
This book was provided for free in return for an honest review.
I would pick it up to read at a library, but I wouldn’t add it to my shelf.
This book was provided for free in return for an honest review.
October 2, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for a chance to read an arc copy of 'Cult of the Lamb' in exchange for an honest review.
I don't usually read too many graphic novels, but after hearing great things about the video game and reading the description I thought this would be right up my ally.
Unfortunately, I can't say I loved this. I thought the pacing was a little off, especially when it came to character development. As someone who has not played the game, the book felt like a tutorial half the time. It reminds me a lot of the same issues I had while reading, 'The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap'.
On the positive side, I thought the artwork was very well done, and still love the concept in general.
Overall, the book was just ok. I think I will check out the game at some point, but I won't be continuing to the next volume.
I don't usually read too many graphic novels, but after hearing great things about the video game and reading the description I thought this would be right up my ally.
Unfortunately, I can't say I loved this. I thought the pacing was a little off, especially when it came to character development. As someone who has not played the game, the book felt like a tutorial half the time. It reminds me a lot of the same issues I had while reading, 'The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap'.
On the positive side, I thought the artwork was very well done, and still love the concept in general.
Overall, the book was just ok. I think I will check out the game at some point, but I won't be continuing to the next volume.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews