2025: A Marvel Universe Under Doom's Reign
The Marvel Universe in 2025 is defined by one word: "Doom." February marks the launch of "One World Under Doom," a major crossover event where Doctor Doom, the new Sorcerer Supreme, claims global dominion. This storyline unfolds across Ryan North and R.B. Silva's "One World Under Doom" miniseries and numerous tie-in titles. A key component is "Thunderbolts: Doomstrike," by Collin Kelly, Jackson Lanzing, and artist Tommaso Bianchi.
IGN presents an exclusive preview of "Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #3 (April release). The synopsis hints at a thrilling conflict: Bucky, Songbird, Sharon Carter, and the Midnight Angels target Doom's vibranium supply, only to face off against…the Thunderbolts!
Is Bucky Barnes Responsible for Emperor Doom?
"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" builds upon Kelly and Lanzing's 2023 "Thunderbolts" relaunch. Bucky Barnes leads a team tasked with neutralizing major villains, employing any necessary means. Their successes against Hydra and the Kingpin inadvertently paved the path for Doom's ascension.
Lanzing explains, "Bucky eliminated the Red Skull, crippled Kingpin's finances, and destabilized the US government. While intended to improve global safety, it inadvertently empowered Victor Von Doom, who he used as a tool. No one uses Doom as a pawn without facing dire consequences."
Kelly reveals that a Doom-centric storyline was always planned. The company-wide "One World Under Doom" crossover was a fortunate alignment. "Doomstrike" becomes a referendum on Bucky's choices, offering a path to redemption, but at a tremendous cost.
Bucky's guilt, stemming from his past as the Winter Soldier, intensifies. Kelly states, "His guilt, from his Winter Soldier days or Outer Circle missions, has always weighed him down. Now, the burden of Doom's rise rests on his shoulders. Doom will exploit this guilt as his most potent weapon."
The Thunderbolts' motivations are diverse. Songbird acts out of loyalty and heroism, yet grapples with the loss of Abner Jenkins. Black Widow prioritizes Bucky's safety, while Sharon Carter confronts fascism. U.S. Agent is disillusioned, and Ghost Rider '44, an old friend, re-enters the fray. The team's composition includes further surprises.
Regarding Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, Kelly teases, "Her role is complex; readers must discover it in issue #1."
Thunderbolts Clash: A Civil War
"Doomstrike" features the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts, many now aligned with Emperor Doom. A conflict between the two Thunderbolts teams is inevitable.
Kelly highlights the reunion of the original Thunderbolts, exploring the theme of redemption. Lanzing explains that Doom, not Bucky, controls the original team, highlighting the manipulation within Doom's regime. Songbird's loyalty is tested, caught between her past and present allegiances.
"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" serves as the culmination of Kelly and Lanzing's years-long Bucky Barnes storyline, building upon their work in "Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty" and "Captain America: Cold War."
Lanzing confirms, "This is our final Bucky Barnes tale for now, concluding the 'Revolution Saga.' It encompasses his origin, conflicts with Captain America, renewed love, and his new identity. Fans of our previous work should not miss this."
The creators aim to engage MCU viewers, given the similarities in the team roster. Kelly states, "MCU fans will recognize Bucky, though our version is more heavily burdened. This story explains Contessa's threat, explores Bucky and Natasha's romance, and introduces Doom, soon to appear in the MCU."
Which 2025 Comic Are You Most Excited For?
[Poll: Various Comic Book Titles]
"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #1 releases February 19, 2025.
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