The low enjoyment level is a fault of my own in this instance. I had the idea that this was volume one of a graphic novel series, not the comic books that it is, so I was going in expecting more content. Had I paid attention and realised these were comic issues, I would have kept an eye out to request the sequel issues or just held off until everything was published and read all the final copies together, but alas.

In terms of my review for this edition specifically, I don't have much to say as there isn't much to work with in this single issue, but from what I did see, it was enjoyable.

The art style was amazing, and the colouring in particular was quite vivid. A colour palette was also established quite quickly. The introductory character was intriguing, and the small hints into the overarching plot of the story.

I played the game after reading to see what, if any, content was added or changed. This issue was basically the same as the prologue scenes. The biggest difference was that this comic had dialogue from The Lamb as well as from the other characters. Unless something changes, I don't think this comic series will be a must-read for fans of the game. I recommend it for the gamers who loved the story and want to digest it completely without it being separated by boss battles and other game mechanics, or for readers who aren't into gaming but the lore of Cult Of The Lamb sounds interesting.

A fun look into the world of Cult of the Lamb. If you enjoy the game, this is a great comic. Even if you are unfamiliar with the games, the art and humor are good to keep you hooked.

I couldn't play the game yet but I've always felt drawn to its lore and aesthetic. A violent take on religions, cults, violence in the name of devotion, and other human fallacies thinly veiled by cute woodland creatures. Animal Crossing meets Blasphemous meets Hollow Knight in this quick read although it might feel a bit unfinished while reading it.

Cult of the Lamb Vol. 1: The First Verse is a darkly whimsical graphic novel, based around the hit video game of the same name by developer Massive Monster (that I am obsessed with). This graphic novel captures the cute blend of cutesy aesthetics and darker themes perfectly. Paknadel's writing more deeply explores the lore and provides a richer backstory for the Lamb we all love and the world surrounding, bringing the story more to life.

The narrative explores the themes of faith, power, and rebellion, all while maintaining the charm from the game. While fans of the game will appreciate expanded lore that manages to remain a faithful adaptation, newcomers to the fandom will also enjoy the story as no prior knowledge is necessary. The artwork is intense, and this graphic novel is full of the brim. It sometimes makes it difficult to follow the action, but just adds some charm from the game.

I absolutely love the game so when I saw the graphic novel I had to jump on it! It was so cute to see the voices of the characters I love so much! Can’t wait for more in this series!

I just love the little lamb art style. It keeps in line with the game and how I’d imagine it would be if we (the audience) weren’t calling the shots.

I love the art in this comic, the dichotomy of cute and gore made the panels really pop. The relationship that Lamb has with Ratau and Nana are both very interesting and unique, and it led to some unexpectedly heartfelt moments which I really enjoyed. Perhaps because this is a graphic novel based on a video game, it felt like the comic relied too heavily on exposition instead allowing the audience to view the plot as visual scenes, but with that it mind I think the creators did a great job of recreating the energy of the video game in a linear plot format.

Cult of the Lamb Vol. 1 by Alex Paknadel is a darkly humorous and gripping graphic novel that blends horror, fantasy, and quirky charm. The story follows a lamb who is tasked with building a cult and managing its followers in a world filled with strange creatures and ominous threats. Paknadel’s writing is sharp, with plenty of twists and a unique sense of humor, while the artwork adds to the eerie, yet whimsical atmosphere. It’s an engaging read for fans of offbeat fantasy and dark humor.

This comic is great. I love COTL and finally having this has been amazing, I just wish it was longer! The humor is charming and there's a decent bit of drama amongst the Lamb and Nana. Not to mention the art is great, took a bit for it to grow on me but it has a nice charm. Eagerly looking forward to the next volume!

Didn’t get a chance to finish this one in time before the book expired on my tablet. I will have to get the book and read it in person and then edit the review once I’ve finished.

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.

I never played the game, but it is easily enjoyable for those who haven't played the game. The violent take on religion, cults, obsession - all cumulates into how far someone would go in the name of devotion portrayed by woodland creatures. A quick read, that I will definitely read again.

I’m interested in seeing what the next volume has in store but my current feelings are that this is a decent enough tale, but it’s not really something I found unputdownable. I really like the artwork a lot and I’m looking forward to seeing more of that. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!

When I was offered this comic, I said yes without hesitation since I spent some time playing the video game (a gore Animal Crossing? Sign me up). Although it's been a while since I last played, this first volume covers the beginning of the story—the resurrection of a little lamb that was sacrificed by priests and its subsequent revenge, creating a demonic cult (I love the premise, not gonna lie).

Visually, it's INCREDIBLE—vibrant colors that match the cartoon style, adorable and heartwarming yet explicitly gory at the same time (my cup of tea).

I enjoyed it, and I might read the next volumes.

Thanks to NetGalley and Oni Press for the ARC.

This took me by surprise for a comic based on a fairly silly video game. The story actually had me hooked and went in a direction I wasn't expecting. The art style is just as cute and fun as the game. I don't know where it goes from here because fighting Leshy was as far as I got into the game because I suck at resource management. So I'm excited for the next volume!

Cult of the Lamb Vol. 1 by Alex Paknadel

4 Stars

Comic and Graphic Novels; Media Tie-In; Video Game Tie-In

I received an e-arc of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I have also purchased a physical copy for myself.

I greatly enjoyed the video game Cult of the Lamb that this graphic novel acts as a tie-in to. It is one of my favorite recent games - one I have played to completion (though not 100%). I love the lore and worth building, and I greatly enjoyed how this comic added a canonical backstory expansion to the lamb and the cult as well as expansion to the lore of the world and the bishops beyond what is seen in the game. The art is fantastic, and I am eager to see if they continue to release comic tie-ins.

A warning for the fact that, despite the cute style, the story can be quite dark and bloody, dealing with death and sacrifice and religion. This story may also be less enjoyable for someone who has not played the game.

Very cute, love the art. Didn't realise this was a thing - I competed the game a short while ago and really enjoyed seeing it in this form.

I love this game and I just love this book! I’m usually not one to read manga/graphics novels but this one was great!

I haven't played the game, and now I think I want to! This was such an interesting story--I was kind of surprised, given the vibrant, adorable art style! Every page was a wash of neon, it felt immersive. Honestly very excited for more bound volumes, and to try the game!

A super fun title with gorgeous artwork and a striking layout. Made me want to play the game the entire time I was reading…. which was a distraction to the book. Definitely check it out.

I didn’t manage to get the Netgally file downloaded in time, I read this title through a library platform.

THANK YOU THANK YOU ONI PRESS!!!

"Cult of the Lamb Vol. 1" successfully translates the dark whimsy of the hit video game into comic form, maintaining the original's blend of cute aesthetics and sinister undertones. Paknadel captures the essence of what made the game compelling - an innocent Lamb's transformation into a cult leader after making a deal with an ancient deity - while adapting it naturally to the comic medium.
The story deftly balances its darker themes of religious manipulation and power with moments of dark humor. The narrative follows Lamb's journey from sacrificial victim to revolutionary leader, challenging the Four Bishops of the Old Faith. Paknadel's writing gives depth to the game's lore, exploring themes of faith, power, and rebellion through a fresh lens.

While newcomers can enjoy the comic on its own merits, fans of the game will particularly appreciate how the adaptation expands on familiar elements while maintaining the original's distinctive tone. The only minor drawback might be that some of the game's interactive elements necessarily lose their impact in comic form. Nevertheless, this is a strong adaptation that stands on its own as an engaging dark fantasy tale.