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. Doctor Doom, the newly crowned Sorcerer Supreme, claims global emperorship. This storyline unfolds across Ryan North and R.B. Silva's "One World Under Doom" miniseries and numerous tie-in titles. A key tie-in is "Thunderbolts: Doomstrike," penned by Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing, with art by Tommaso Bianchi.
IGN presents an exclusive preview of "Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #3 (April release). Marvel's solicitation hints at an epic clash: "Bucky, Songbird, Sharon Carter, and the Midnight Angels target Doom's vibranium supply, only to face…the Thunderbolts! Thunderbolts vs. 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 neutralized the Red Skull, Kingpin's finances, and the US Government's deterrence. This destabilized everything, unintentionally empowering Doom, whom Bucky used as a pawn."
Kelly reveals that a Doom-centric sequel was always planned. The "One World Under Doom" crossover, spearheaded by Ryan North, presented a perfect opportunity. "Bucky's manipulation of Doom became a key inciting incident in his rise to power, making this mission a referendum on Bucky's choices."
Bucky's guilt, stemming from his past as the Winter Soldier, intensifies. Kelly states, "This new burden adds to his existing guilt, and Doom will weaponize it. The weight will be immense."
Lanzing details the motivations of the other Thunderbolts: Songbird acts out of loyalty and heroism, while grappling with grief; Black Widow prioritizes Bucky's safety; Sharon Carter combats fascism; U.S. Agent is disillusioned; and Ghost Rider '44, an old friend, re-enters the fray. Additional members remain a surprise.
The enigmatic Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine's role is more complex, requiring readers to discover her involvement in issue #1.
Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts
"Doomstrike" features the original 1997 Thunderbolts lineup, many of whom now serve Doom. The clash between Bucky's team and Doom's is inevitable.
Kelly highlights the return of the original Thunderbolts, exploring the theme of redemption. Lanzing explains that Doom, not Bucky, controls this iteration of the Thunderbolts, using them as "Fulgar Victoris."
Songbird's loyalty is tested, caught between her past and present allegiances. Kelly notes her emotional turmoil upon seeing her former teammates serving Doom.
This series 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 story for now, concluding the 'Revolution Saga.' It's the grand finale, and fans of our previous work shouldn't miss it."
The creators aim to attract MCU viewers, highlighting the familiarity of Bucky's character and the relevance of Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine and the Doom storyline to the MCU.
Which 2025 Comic Are You Most Excited For?
[Poll: Various comic book titles]
"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #1 releases February 19, 2025.
