Review of Mad Cave Studios Phantom Issue #0

Mad Cave Studios Phantom #0 was originally released to coincide with the 2025 Free Comic Day on 3 May 2025. This comic features their first comic starting their new ongoing stand alone Phantom series. Please note, this review will have spoilers.

Credits for the issue are:

Writer: Ray Fawkes

Artist: Russell Mark Olson

Letterer: Taylor Esposito

Editor: Chas! Pangburn 

Cover Artist: Greg Smallwood

The synopsis: The Phantom, Lee Falk’s highly influential superhero, is back in an all-new adventure series! The first story in an exciting publishing plan that is sure to satisfy both new and returning “Phans” of comics’ beloved Ghost Who Walks. In true Phantom fashion, look forward to pulpy storytelling focused on justice, honor, mystery, and mythology—all told with heaps of action!

Most #0 issues and Free Comic Day comics do not feature full length stories. This features a 22 page story which showcases several Phantom elements that new and old fans will enjoy. The Skull Cave is depicted including the Chronicle Chamber and the major treasure room. Diana is showcased and it even features a dry witted Phantom comment or two.

Overall, this is a great promising start and look forward to the next issue.

Majority of local comic shops around the world will participate in Free Comic Day. Otherwise you will be able to pick these up from secondary markets soon. No date has been given yet when issue #1 will be out.

A huge shout out to our reviewer Scott Waldyn who will reviewing Phantom comics from USA. You can follow him from his Instagram and or website. Jermayn Parker and Stephen East will also review this issue in the next X-Band: The Phantom Podcast.

All Mad Cave Studios comics and other comic reviews will be included in our monthly X-Band: The Phantom Podcasts. You can find out more at our website and or subscribe to our YouTube channel for more videos and reviews.