In the ever-expanding realm of superhero and supervillain sagas, where capes clash and powers collide, C.T. Phipps takes readers and listeners on a thrilling ride through dimensions in “The Tournament of Supervillainy.” As the fifth installment in the Supervillainy Saga, this audiobook invites us once again into the chaotic world of Gary Karkofsky, better known as Merciless the supervillain without mercy. Narrated by the talented Jeffrey Kafer, this audiobook promises a new chapter filled with wit, irreverence, and a dash of introspection.
A Fresh Beginning in the Multiverse
The Supervillainy Saga has been a fan favorite for its unique take on the superhero/supervillain genre. In “The Tournament of Supervillainy,” Phipps takes a bold step, almost like a reboot of the series, infusing it with fresh energy and creativity. It’s as if the author found his mojo again, and the result is a delightful romp through the multiverse. The familiar cast of characters, including Cindy, Mandy, Diabloman, Gabrielle, and others, returns to entertain us.
Phipps masterfully combines intelligence, irreverence, and cleverness that fans have come to adore in his previous works. However, this time, he adds a new twist by introducing an interdimensional tournament reminiscent of Mortal Kombat and Street Fighter. It’s a refreshing departure from the usual superhero/supervillain narrative, offering readers and listeners a chance to witness a battle royale where anything goes.
One of the most captivating aspects of “The Tournament of Supervillainy” is Phipps’ decision to merge characters from his other book series into this story. While seemingly unrelated, these characters seamlessly find their place in the multiverse melee. This crossover of characters from different series opens up a whole new world of possibilities and piques the interest of fans, leaving them eager to explore these other adventures.
Jeffrey Kafer’s narration is nothing short of superb. With a vast audiography to his name, Kafer demonstrates his prowess, particularly in the realm of science fiction and fantasy titles. His ability to breathe life into characters like Cindy and Diabloman is commendable, adding depth and dimension to the audiobook.
While “The Tournament of Supervillainy” is a great entry point for newcomers to the Supervillainy Saga, it’s advisable to start from the beginning to fully appreciate the series’ evolution. The earlier books are brimming with humor and charm, and they lay the foundation for the quirky world of Gary/Merciless. For those who relish sharp-witted and snarky protagonists, as well as villains who occasionally do good deeds, Gary is the epitome of an anti-villain worth exploring.
As the narrative unfolds, Gary, alongside Jane Doe, Agent G, and Cassius Mass, embarks on a perilous journey to participate in the Primal Fighting Tournament. Their mission is to protect the existence of the multiverse itself. However, the odds are stacked against them, as they must face off against gods, superheroes, and supervillains who outmatch them in power and experience. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as they seek to decipher the true purpose of the tournament and what Entropicus, the Space God of Evil, stands to gain.
Towards the audiobook’s conclusion, it takes an unexpected turn, morphing into a manifesto against the frequent continuity reboots, character resurrections, and rewrites that often plague the comic book and movie universes. While this exploration of meta-narrative elements adds a unique layer to the story, some listeners may find it off-putting, as it momentarily disrupts the immersive experience.
In addition to the manifesto, the audiobook employs a degree of fourth wall breaking, which can be divisive. While some may appreciate the playful interaction with the audience, others might find it distracting and immersion-breaking. However, it’s worth noting that these moments don’t overshadow the overall enjoyment of the audiobook but serve as a reminder of the blurred line between fiction and reality.
Throughout “The Tournament of Supervillainy,” we witness Gary’s evolution from a self-proclaimed mediocre supervillain to a character contemplating the possibility of becoming a superhero. His journey is filled with humorous moments, unexpected twists, and a fair share of self-discovery. As Gary continues to save the world, listeners are left pondering whether he might ultimately save the entire megaverse.
C.T. Phipps, the author of this audiobook, deserves accolades for his ability to capture the unique wit and humor that defines the Supervillainy Saga. His writing style effortlessly blends the absurd with the profound, making it easy to forget that it’s just one person crafting this entertaining world.
Jeffrey Kafer, the narrator, enhances the experience with his skillful performance. He takes on a wide range of characters, breathing life into each one with distinctive voices and nuances. Kafer’s dedication to his craft shines through in every word, making the audiobook an auditory delight.
In “The Tournament of Supervillainy,” C.T. Phipps invites listeners on a rollicking journey through the multiverse, where heroes and villains clash in a tournament of epic proportions. With a fresh take on the genre, a clever crossover of characters, and Jeffrey Kafer’s exceptional narration, this audiobook offers a thrilling experience for fans of superhero and supervillain stories.
While the audiobook’s departure into meta-narrative elements may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it’s a minor detour in an otherwise engaging and humorous narrative. Ultimately, this installment in the Supervillainy Saga reaffirms why Gary is the best anti-villain around. For those who enjoy witty, snarky leads and don’t mind a little chaos with their heroes and villains, “The Tournament of Supervillainy” is a must-listen. So, strap in and get ready for a wild ride across the multiverse with Gary and his unconventional allies, as they aim to save not just one world but the entire megaverse.