Showcase #98
Published and © by DC, March 1978
Title: “When the Symbioship Strikes!”
Synopsis: The Symbioship that brought Power Girl from Krypton to Earth decides they are meant to be together forever.
Writer: Paul Levitz
Penciler: Joe Staton
Inker: Dick Giordano
Review: Paul Levitz serves up a fun sci-fi concept that both reveals Power Girl’s back story and offers a different refugee experience from that of her famous cousin. A Kryptonian technology designed to nurture runs amok, providing a heartbreaking ordeal for the Earth-Two maid of might to overcome. The result is an emotionally powerful story that helps differentiate the character from Supergirl. Joe Staton’s art is almost always be a better fit on more humorous titles, but the Charlton alumni is also a solid craftsman on superhero tales. This three-part solo showcase is showing some real potential.
Grade: B
Second opinion: “This book is such a perfect blend of action and character development that for once I think DC has actually underrated one of its new products.” – Margaret O’Connell, AFTA #1, February 1978 … “Both plot and art wise, it’s an improvement over the last issue.” – Les Chester, The Panelologist #9, Spring 1978
Cool factor: Paul Levitz is equally gifted at high concept and characterization.
Character quotable: “That option is closed to you, human! You stand counter to my programming – and that which blocks the Symbioship shall cease to exist!” – The Symbioship, proving once again that the AI future will surely be just fine
Editor’s note: This review was written Aug. 19, 2026.
