Comic Review: Nightwing #129

 

Since Dan Watters took over the series, Nightwing has started exploring areas few fans expected. From grounded, street-level stories, the narrative has in just a few issues expanded into cosmic, metafictional clashes with the fifth dimension and the chaotic Nite-Mite. Issue #129 is the culmination of that arc – intense, emotional, and unpredictable. It isn’t flawless, but it proves that Watters is willing to take risks and bring fresh ideas into Nightwing’s mythos.

The Power of Oracle and… Chicken Soup

The biggest strength of this issue is how Barbara Gordon/Oracle is used. She’s the one who saves the day, deploying the most unexpected weapon of all – the chicken soup analogy. At first it sounds absurd, but in context it’s brilliant. Through this metaphor, Nite-Mite – confused and overwhelmed by pain – regains control of himself. Oracle dives deep into Nightwing’s past, evoking Alfred’s simple care whenever Dick was hurting. It wasn’t the soup that healed him, but the love and reassurance. And that’s exactly what Nite-Mite needed.

Watters proves he can weave psychological and emotional depth into cape comics. It’s not just about fists and gadgets – it’s about memory, empathy, and how our past shapes who we are.

Bryce Morgan – the Issue’s Big Surprise

The standout twist here is the reveal of Nightwing Prime. It’s not Van-Zee but Bryce Morgan – the kid who earlier broke into Titans Tower – transformed into a Kryptonian-level version of Nightwing. It’s shocking, and it opens up countless story possibilities.

Bryce, torn between his idolization of Nightwing and the crisis of having two identities fighting in his head, is the very definition of a tragic character. His intentions may be good, but his desperation could easily spiral into darkness. Watters plants the seeds of a storyline where Nightwing Prime might just become both ally and enemy.

Character Dynamics and Emotion

While most of the spotlight is on Dick, Bryce, and Nite-Mite, it’s the relationship between Dick and Barbara that shines brightest. Their reunion – Dick sprinting toward her in pure relief while she calmly explains her brilliant solution – is heartfelt and memorable. It highlights Oracle’s role as more than just “support” and reminds us how crucial she is to Nightwing’s journey.

Even Haley the dog gets her moment. Transformed into a mutated, talking beast, Haley still manages to provide levity and heart. What could have felt like a gimmick instead becomes an endearing part of the “chicken soup” solution.

Visuals

Dexter Soy delivers one of his strongest issues here. His style isn’t always the most distinctive, but with the surreal fifth-dimensional elements in play, Soy’s art finds a spark. The Deathwing battles, Haley’s monstrous form, and the cosmic scope of the finale all look dynamic and easy to follow. The final panel of Nightwing Prime floating in space is striking – both epic and unsettling.

Watters’ Unpredictability

The greatest strength of this run is its unpredictability. At times the story feels scattered, but Watters always ties up loose ends and then throws in another twist that re-ignites interest. Initially, the idea of a Nite-Mite arc felt risky – Nightwing is at his best in grounded crime stories – but this issue proves cosmic weirdness can work too.

Watters balances absurdity with drama, grounding it all in Nightwing’s personal history. This arc ends in a satisfying, emotional way while setting up exciting new possibilities.

Final Thoughts

Nightwing #129 is an imperfect but rewarding conclusion to the Nite-Mite storyline. It blends emotion, unpredictability, and bold new directions with classic character beats. The “adult child” element of Nightwing Prime may worry some readers, but the potential of the character is undeniable. This issue proves that Watters can breathe new life into a character whose story has been told countless times before.

Score: 7.5/10

Pros:

+Oracle’s clever and emotional resolution to the conflict

+Shocking twist with Nightwing Prime 

+Heartfelt reunion between Dick and Barbara

+Fun and effective use of Haley

+Dexter Soy’s clear, dynamic art at its best here

+A bold mix of absurdity, pathos, and emotion

Cons:

-The “adult child” trope (Nightwing Prime) may cause problems

-Occasional narrative chaos

-Soy’s art still lacks a distinct identity overall

-Some side plots resolved too quickly