Injustice Does Justice to the Justice League

I just finished reading the hardcover compilation of Injustice: Gods Among Us, Vol. 1.  It collects the first six issues of the Injustice: Gods Among Us series.  The story is very well-written by Tom Taylor and beautifully illustrated by Jheremy Raapack.  The hardcover that collects the first six issues is attractive itself, too.  I was very impressed by the initial presentation, and then became so thoroughly engaged with the storyline that I read all six issues within the book quickly.   

The series is based on the video game (which I've never played) and serves as a prequel to the events in the game.  The story involves the division of members of the Justice League into two "teams" going up against one another; one led by Superman, one led by Batman.  Superman and his followers want to right the wrongs in the world by any means (Machiavelli's "the end justifies the means" philosophy).   Batman, on the other hand, wants to right the wrongs within legal confines, using the established (albeit broken) justice system.  I won't reveal any spoilers, but I will say that the writer does a fantastic job of not only keeping the story moving, but also with developing each character's personality.   

The real injustice here is that Injustice: Gods Among Us takes place outside of the current DC Universe because this storyline is SO much better than Justice League stories currently being written in the New 52. What a shame that the talents of Taylor and Raapack are being wasted by not giving them a regular monthly series that takes place within the confines of the New 52 and delivers powerful stories with attention to characterization.  Instead, we're stuck with bland writers like Ann Nocenti.  Taylor also wrote the brilliant Rose and Thorn one-shot which was also a favorite of mine.  So, kudos to Taylor on his awesome writing skills. 

And the art in Injustice is so amazing and lifelike, too!   I've rarely seen superheroes like Superman or Wonder Woman look better (although I'm not sure why Lois Lane is a redhead).  

I look forward to reading the new ongoing Injustice series and (hopefully) watching the careers of Taylor and Raapack fluorish.