While "Convergence: Titans" #1 doesn't provide the complete setup for the Titans' presence in Gotham City, the story from Fabian Nicieza does give readers enough information to move forward as the dome drops and "Convergence" begins. A quick, three-page flashback sequence introduces Roy Harper and his painful, pre-"Flashpoint" history.

Ron Wagner's drawings are reminiscent of the Bruce Timm style of characters, and Jose Marzan Jr.'s inks add depth and texture that bring emotion and atmosphere to Wagner's drawings. Colorist Chris Sotomayor keeps the backgrounds cool, projecting the figures forward and giving the (literally) explosive conflicts visual impact that amplifies the Wagner's storytelling. In some spots, Wagner's drawings are wonderfully understated, filling the figures with power and energy, while other panels almost ask for an extra set of lines for depth or detail. Wagner draws dynamic figures on the edge of action, but some of the action itself needs just a little more space. The artist completely makes the star of the issue, Arsenal, his character by the end of the issue and does a fine job of setting up the uncertainty and suspense for the second chapter of this adventure.

Bridging story and art, letterer Carlos M. Mangual puts the sound effects into place panel-to-panel and keeps Wagner's work as clean as possible throughout the tale. Nicieza's story fits nicely with Wagner's art, each bringing an appreciation for a kinder, gentler time when the Titans were a beacon of hope and fun on the comic book landscape. Set against the events leading to this point, Nicieza all but delivers a tale of redemption for the drug-addled, cat-swinging Arsenal who blazed out of heroism in the days before "Flashpoint." Nicieza brings back playful, flirtatious banter among the Titans, specifically between Donna and Roy, offering readers a chance to remember what once was and to celebrate the camaraderie these characters once exuded.

"Convergence: Titans" #1 is a decent offering in this event, pitting a trio of Titans against the Extremists of "Justice League International" fame with Gotham City serving as a backdrop. Nicieza keeps the story from being a by-the-numbers showdown and leaves readers with a cliffhanger that has no clear, pre-assured outcome. Arsenal, prior to "Blackest Night" and "Brightest Day," may have soured fans of the Titans lore, but Nicieza does a nice job returning some of the emotional ambiance comic book fans have always enjoyed in their Titans comics.