Get ready to dive into the flashiest era of comics with the latest episode of Unspoken Issues as Jesse Starcher and Chris Armstrong return with their Gimmick Cover Summer series. This time, it’s all about WildC.A.T.s #2—a shimmering gem from the heyday of 1990s Image Comics. The duo revisits the hype and high-concept madness behind one of the decade’s most iconic foil covers and explores how it captivated readers then—and still dazzles collectors today.
In this episode, the hosts break down the fan poll that crowned WildC.A.T.s #2 as the top gimmick cover among contenders like ShadowHawk #1 and Brigade Vol. 2 #2. They offer a nostalgic critique of the visual and storytelling mechanics of foil embossing and mirror finishes, while peppering in personal stories of comic shop adventures and collecting quirks from the early ‘90s. From hidden references in background monitors to revealing the reused cover stock years later by Valiant, this is deep-cut comic trivia at its best.
Then, buckle in for a beat-by-beat summary and discussion of the explosive events of WildC.A.T.s #2. From teleportation mishaps and interdimensional threats to a showdown with Youngblood and a government mole with alien secrets, the issue delivers all the spectacle you'd expect from a Jim Lee blockbuster. And yes, the hosts don’t miss a chance to geek out over favorite panels, character highlights, and the early building blocks of the WildStorm universe. Whether you're here for the nostalgia or the nerdy details, this episode delivers a punch of ‘90s energy that’s not to be missed.
