“Ponies of Dark Water Part 3” Chaos reigns over Ponyville as normal ponies across town turn evil! It’ll be up to Spike and the Cutie Mark Crusaders, with the help of an unexpected ally, to save the day!
Writing
The story of the Mane Six becoming evil comes to an end. Things aren’t wrapped up so easy though as Princess Luna has been turned back into her villainous alter ego, Nightmare Moon. This offers a truly great moment between Nightmare Moon, Twilight Sparkle, and Rarity as they come together and talk about their plans for the world like a group of supervillains. Speaking of villains, the writer seem to take a stab at a recent Hollywood blockbuster by talking about how two characters mothers had the same name. The pop culture references in this book really help to the keep this series entertaining.
The story line wraps up a little too quickly though. Writer Thom Zahler could have benefited from one more issue of the characters still being evil, as the cure for their condition is found and distributed by the end of this issue. If you’re going to bring a major villain like Nightmare Moon back, then bring her back to really cause some truly memorable chaos.
Artwork
Pages of this issue are filled with stunning effects and good action shots thanks to Tony Fleecs on artwork and Heather Breckel on colors. Watching Rarity take on Nightmare Moon is made more enjoyable thanks to the impressive use of the magical effects by the art team.
Conclusion
Not bad, even for a quick wrap up but it would be better if future issues used this idea or made references to the carnage the team committed while they were evil. It may be a good way to turn public appeal against them. Considering the next issue is about an election, it may come back sooner than later.