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X – Books February 2025

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Introduction

I posted almost nothing last month. This month, I dedicated myself to rebuilding my interest and motivation to update the page. As often, I started with comics. I know comics. I read comics. Comics come naturally to me. Even so, the reviews spilled into this week. Therefore, I kick off a new week (D&D) with the last few X-Books February 2025.

Exceptional X-Men #5

Writer: Eve Ewing, Artist: Carmen Carnero

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Like many mutants, Kitty went through some shit at the end of the Krakoa era. However, her past haunts rather than inspires. So, when that past comes back, one of the group decides it’s too much to bear and quits the group. How much more can this young team take? My decision to split off the X-Books originally came as a numbers game. However, the more I read these books, the better and more consistent they are. I used to decry the proliferation of X-Books as too much of a good thing. That’s not the case here. Eve Ewing built the mythos of this book very quickly and gave it a very different feel from the other comic stories out there. My verdict: Great

Nyx 6

Writers: Collin Kelly, Jackson Lanzig, Artist: Michael Shelfer

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: An invitation to a Dazzler concert! That turns out to be a front for Mojo and another of his diabolical schemes. Can Kamala Khan survive the treachery? Kelly and Lanzing took another ragtag group of heroes and made them a family that I love just as much as their Guardians of the Galaxy books a few years ago. What’s funny is that I like the individual heroes more in this book, but I loved the Guardians more as a team. This issue, for example, felt a little too uneven for me. I know the point is they’re on the ground mutants. Maybe it just felt too much like Exceptional this time. Oh well, they have time to weave their magic. My verdict: Good.

Phoenix 7

Writer: Stephanie Phillips, Artist: Marco Renna

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Thanos targeted Phoenix and brought friends to the party. Phoenix, too, has a few allies with her to try to even the playing field. A good old fashioned celestial brawl ensues with Jean Grey left at a crossroads. This book took some time for me to warm up to. I didn’t like the singular nature of it compared with the team aspect of the other X-Books. But, this one brings a fun team up. My verdict: Good.

The Uncanny X-Men 9 (Legacy 709)

Writer: Gail Simone, Artist: Andrei Bressan

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: The Outliers, brought onto the team recently, find themselves in mortal danger. A new group of sentinels named the Wolfpack hunts them for reasons unknown. Without their mentors, can they survive long enough to get answers? Well, true believer, come back next time to find out. Another new bunch of mutants. These ones are, obviously, less recognizable than the characters in Nyx. But, Gail Simone brings them to life in a way that only she can. Also, this issue reads more like a classic X-Man book. Maybe that’s what I need from them right now. My verdict: Good.

X-Force 6 (Legacy 296)

Writer: Goeffrey Thorne, Artist: James Towe

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: The X-Men showed up a few issues ago. Now, Mystique is in the mix as well. Forge faces inter-dimensional horror and lost love returned. Hard to say which represents the bigger threat right now. Like Phoenix, this one took me a while to buy into the premise. But, the last couple episode got me to buy. This one backs off some with the action, but not much. I mean, this is Forge after all. He deals with his emotions by shooting things. My verdict: Good.

X-Men 8 (Legacy 308)

Writer: Jed MacKay, Artist: Ryan Stegman

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: The X-Men finally gathered enough intel on the prison where they’re keeping Beast. Time to launch a search mission. Actually, two missions. Both of the leaders of the factions (Rogue and Cyclops) pull together their teams to get Beast back. Will they find the ability to work together? Or, will the tension tear them even further apart? MacKay thrives on this shit. He’s at his best when two disparate teams of super powered beings exist in a tenuous truce that can break at any time. So, he’s the perfect pick to help pick up the pieces after the Krakoan era blew up. My verdict: Great.

The Verdict

X-Books February 2025 is a good collection that advances all of the stories nicely. I missed adding Psylocke to my list as well as the Ultimate X-Titles. First, I need a reason to visit That’s Entertainment. Second, my pull list already pushes over 100 bucks most months. And, that’s with the DCBS Discount.

Images for X-Books February 2025 comes from Marvel.com.

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Marvel Comics February 2025

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Introduction

Well, it took a snow day and a sick day from work to finally sit down and write Marvel Comics February 2025. As I wrote last time, I need to figure out a way to maintain the holiday momentum into January. Otherwise, things go stagnant for January and then it takes some time to regain the momentum in February. Sometimes, the lag lasts until March. I hope to avoid that this year, but much of my life get put on hold periodically, so stay tuned and send some positive mojo if you can spare.

Amazing Spider-Man 66 (Legacy 960)

Writer: Justina Ireland, Artist: Adrea Broccardo

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts : Spider-Man defeated, broken, and no more? It’s all hands on deck as first Spider-Boy and then Black Cat and finally the X-Men heed the call after Spider-Man’s defeat and the looming end of the world. I fell like the new team is trying to write the former storyline, but in a much better way. So far, I enjoy this story so much more than that and it more or less follows the same pattern of fighting a literal god. Hope they keep the momentum. My verdict: Good.

The Avengers 21 (Legacy 787)

Writer: Jed MacKay, Artist: Valerio Schiti

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: The Avengers face off against the X-Men in what Marvel promises to have far reaching implications for the future. Some fans called this one as soon as MacKay took over both titles. I never saw the first Avengers vs. X-Men story, so I welcome the chance to see the two mega teams in a battle. My verdict: Decent.

Fantastic Four 28 (Legacy 721)

Writer: Ryan North, Artist: Steven Cummings

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Official prologue to One World Under Doom. After failing to properly understand Magic in order to stop Doom, Sorcerer Supreme, Sue suggests that Reed can meet with The Black Knight. The Knight sends them back int time to search for a relic that they can use to help stop Doom. However, of course, not all is as it seems. I’m still pretty geeked over the trailer for the new movie, so that might color my thoughts on this one a bit. Then again, this alone remains from my favorite books since the latest reboot, so maybe I just love what they’ve done with Marvel’s first family. My verdict: Great.

The Immortal Thor 19 (Legacy 780)

Writer: Al Ewing, Artist: Many, so many

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: While the All-Father is away, the Asgardians will…well, not quite play. There’s quite a serious storm brewing and this tells the tales of those who must respond to help fend it off. These are the kinds of stories that I love from Al Ewing. When he brings in the secondary and tertiary characters to give them a chance to shine. My verdict: Great.

The Incredible Hulk 21 (Legacy 802)

Writer: Phillip Kennedy Johnson, Artist: Danny Earls

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Hulk defeated the Skinwalker cult, which awakened some of the most ancient and powerful evils on the planet. Joined by Werewolf at Night, they fight against a demonic wolf. In Charlie news, she gains strength and comes closer to being a super hero. However, other changes make her wonder if she’s a hero after all. Always worried about a letdown after they finish a big story like the previous one. However, PKJ kept things going with this one. I may have lost Guardians and She Hulk, but they gave me Hulk (and hopefully Spider-Man) back. My verdict: Great

The Verdict

With the decision to write separate articles for the X-Books, Marvel Comics February 2025 is only 5 titles. But, they are some of the core titles and some of the best they’ve been in decades. Additionally, unlike some recent events, I look forward to One World Under Doom.

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X-Books December 2024

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Introduction

Having missed out on the Krakoa era, I went overboard on the Marvel mutants. I have 7 different titles for X-Books December 2024. And, when I went to That’s Entertainment after the Lego Fest in Worcester, I looked at 3 or 4 other titles and considered picking them up. I might have even pulled the trigger on Psylocke. She was always my favorite growing up. What can I tell you? I have a soft spot for the B-listers that fight their way to the A-list.

Exceptional X-Men 3

Writer: Eve Ewing, Artist: Carmen Carnero

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Kitty wants nothing to do with the X-Men. Nope, not at all. She needs a break after all that went down. Please, stop trying to rope her into forming a new X-Team with brand new mutants. Especially you, Emma Frost. Do you need some discouragement from my fists? Emma and Kitty face off and Kitty ends up as foster Mom to Axo, Bronze, and Melee. But, what’s this? At the end, an Ice Man appears as the cavalry. I wonder what his name is.

This book is tons of fun right now. It reads very much like Rainbow Rowell’s She Hulk. Can a big city X-girl really have it all? Probably not, but it’s fun to watch her try. If they’re thinking about rebooting the title, either Ewing or Gronbekk should be on the short list. My verdict: Good.

Nyx 4 and 5

Writers: Collin Kelly, Jackson Lanzing, Artists: Enid Balam, Francesco Mortarino

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: The Nyxers work hard to find their places in the post Krakoa mutant landscape. This is made more complicated by The Quiet Council and the Peacekeepers. Also, just the hustle and bustle of New York City. If they can make it there, they can make it anywhere.

Kelly and Lanzing breathe life into a new band of misfits that become a family. While this one doesn’t deal with an intergalactic threat that was once part of the family, they still have quite a bit that keeps them on their toes. Like Exceptional, I like the personal touches on this title. Let the other X-Men fight the Avengers. Some of us need to help less fortunate mutants. My verdict: Good.

Phoenix 5

Writer: Stephanie Philips, Artist: Alessandro Miracolo

Quick Synposis and Thoughts: Phoenix continues to deal with the fallout and the assassins sent after her. All while contending with her role as the Phoenix and what that means to her and others. On the last page, the big man himself reveals that he wants to take over the council and then, of course, all of creation.

Of the new X-Books, this isn’t one of my favorites. Having already told you that I like the personal stories in NYX and Exceptional, this one spans the galaxy and galactic threats. I guess I’m in my “relatable comic book heroes” era. My verdict: Decent.

Psylocke 1 and 2

Writer: Alyssa Wong, Artist: Vincenzo Carratu

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Psylocke brings her brutal energy and assassin training to the X-Men. They decide that those methods are too extreme and kick her off the team. With no support, she finds herself in a familiar position. She will need to survive on her own. No problem there.

I don’t know how I feel about this new iteration of Psylocke. She feels a little too much like Wolverine in her mannerisms and attitude. But, I’ll give the book a chance. Because I like the writing and art. More often than not, things tend to work out. My verdict: Decent

The Uncanny X-Men 5 and 6 (Legacy 705 and 706)

Writer: Gail Simone, Artist: Javier Garron

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: The finale to the Red Wave story where they face a supernatural threat that reveals a secret that threatens to tear the young team apart. But, Rogue manages to keep them together and starts a new school in her home state. That leads to a whole slew of other potential problems.

Gail Simone nicely balances the human and superhuman in her characters. Where I normally might not enjoy this title because of the huge paranormal threat, she follows it up with a story that we can all relate to. School sucks. I know. My verdict: Great

X-Force 5 (Legacy 295)

Writer: Geoffrey Thorne, Artist: Marcus To

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: All hell breaks loose in this one. The Avengers show up to deal with the Nuklo threat. That leads to an all out melee that is then broken up by The Phoenix. A team member dies and another quits the team, questioning Forge’s humanity and leadership. To be fair, it deserves questioning.

All I have to say is, “Wow.” And, I’ll add a “Holy shit.” So much went down in this book. But, Thorne handled it all well. I never cared all that much for X-Force growing up, but I like this team. The dynamic between the characters is phenomenal. The story felt disjointed at first, but all came together in this issue. Plus, Forge is just so brutally efficient as a leader. Harsh. My verdict: Great.

X-Men 7 (Legacy 307)

Writer: Jed MacKay, Artist: Netho Diaz

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: We open on Scott’s Alaska camp during the Iron Night. He mopes as only Scott can while discussing recent events with Magneto. A Sentinel descends on the town and they fight it together. Magneto gets in the killing blow. The issue ends with Beat getting abducted during a phone call.

MacKay’s X-Men is taking some time to get going. I suppose it makes sense give the massive aftermath they are dealing with. But, it’s still a little frustrating that the main title lags behind all of the others when it comes to story and character development. Oh well, I have a feeling he will turn it around sooner rather than later. My verdict: Decent.

The Verdict (X-Books December 2024)

So many books to read and review. As you saw, I picked up Psylocke at the comic book store. a pleasant surprise to go with some other great books from my DCBS order of X-Books December 2024. Strange that the main title is probably the slowest right now, but that won’t be true for long.

Images taken from Marvel.com

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Marvel Comics December 2024

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Introduction

Thanks to the number of X-Books I ordered, The Incredible Hulk reaching a milestone issue, and writing a separate article for the two Ultimate titles that arrived, I only have 4 titles to review for Marvel Comics December 2024. Two of them have two issues each, though, so a total of six books in the queue. A far cry from a few months ago, but much more manageable as a group.

Amazing Spider-Man 61 and 62 (Legacy 955 and 956)

Writer: Joe Kelly, Artist: Ed McGuinness.

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Strange surrendered the power of the Sorcerer Supreme to Doom in an attempt to save the world. He uses that power to pick Spidey as his champion in a fight against supernatural enemies. This results in a new magical suit and powers plus eight lives with which to accomplish the task. As the title of the arc suggests, he’s two for two on using up those lives in the battles. Pretty gruesome deaths, too.

You all know that I took a long hiatus from ASM. I just couldn’t do it anymore. I hated everything that Zeb Wells did with the character. They made up for it by bringing Kelly on to right the ship with classic Spidey artist, Ed McGuinness. So far, the pace and tone of the title is much better and I think I’m going to be okay with Spidey going forward. My verdict: Good

The Avengers 20 (Legacy 786)

Writer: Jed MacKay, Artist: Farid Karami

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: This issue follows up on the story of Black Panther in the alternate dimension. He fights to free the prisoners from that prison as the rest of the team works on the outside to keep Doom at bay. This issue focuses completely on his story and ends with a question from T’Challa about his potential future.

I enjoyed this issue quite a bit. I think it’s my favorite Avengers issue since the first story line. What’s funny is that it’s essentially a Black Panther solo story. But, it’s the kind of Panther story that I prefer. On the ground (admittedly in an alternate dimension) fighting for the liberation of others. My verdict: Good

Captain America 14 and 15 (Legacy 764 and 765)

Writer: JMS, Artists: Carlos Magno and Jesus Sais

Quick Thoughts and Synopsis: In the shadow of the madness of his previous adventure, Cap teams up with two other former Avengers for this next one. They embark on the mission that, as others have promised (or threatened) will bring them together or tear them apart. The first stop is a small town in Oklahoma where they learn of Thor’s shame experienced there. They fight against Dark Asgard to save the soul of the town and it may prove to be too much after all.

I wrote that the previous adventure felt too supernatural for a Captain America story. This one continues that trend, so I guess JMS is just bringing that corner of the Marvel Comics into Captain America. It makes more sense with Thor on his side, but still feels a little weird. Normally I like weird. I just think the imbalance of real life tempers my enjoyment some. My verdict: Decent.

The Immortal Thor 17 (Legacy 778)

Writer: Al Ewing, Artist: Jan Bazaldua

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: The past again catches up with the Thunder God. Four gods, called into being by his enemies, stalk Thor. While he could defeat them individually, their mutual hatred and ability to work together might finally do him in and end his reign already. However, he defeats them. Enchantress comes to him and they go back to meet his son, Magni.

I normally love everything Ewing does. His Hulk remains my favorite version of the character ever. Then, he brought Venom some semblance of sanity before the whole Knull nonsense. His Thor, though, confuses me. I never entirely understood the Roxxon beginning of the story, then things started to come together and now he throws us another curveball with Magni. I hold out hope that he’ll bring all these threads together. Right now, though, I’m confused. My verdict: Decent.

The Verdict

Marvel Comics December 2024 is a mixed bag. I’m glad Spidey’s back. The Avengers Black Panther story was great. Cap and Thor feel like both writers are taking too many liberties right now with the characters and stories. But, they’re still mostly enjoyable, so I’ll forgive them for now.

Pictures taken from Marvel.

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Ultimate Marvel December 2024

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Introduction

When I saw the announcement of the new Ultimate Marvel line, I cringed. I remember the first time when they completely lost the thread. A couple of times, they removed my comments from social media reminding them about the cannibalistic Hulk and incestuous Maximoff twins. Then, a few months ago, for some reason, I picked up a couple of the Ultimate titles. I heard good things about the books. If I’m being honest, though, I didn’t enjoy the stories all that much. However, from the looks of it, I put Ultimates and Ultimate Spider-Man on my DCBS list. So, I set aside this Ultimate Marvel December 2024 article to try to see if i can find something to like about the books.

The Ultimates 6

Writer: Deniz Camp, Artist: Juan Frigeri

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: This issue sees the Ultimates team up to try to take down the Hulk. They figure a little prison rules will hopefully help them defeat the Maker. As you might expect, things go very wrong for them. Very, very wrong indeed.

I actually liked this issue. Either they improved the quality of the story or I’m feeling more generous today. Obviously, both can be true. I guess I’ll find out next month which it more true. I will say that I like this version of Ultimate Hulk better than the sociopath that they wrote last time. He reminds me of Smart Hulk and that’s always a fun version of the character. My verdict: Good.

Ultimate Spider-Man 11

Writer: Johnathon Hickman, Guest Artist: David Messina

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Pete reaches out to Norman to try to smooth things over, it looks like. Not sure what happened, but there’s some tension there. He then receives quite the ass kicking from Mr. Negative and his henchmen. That brings him back home while Mr. Negative debriefs Kingpin. Black Cat gets introduced and Peter ends the issue talking things out with Uncle Ben.

Wow. Quite a bit happens in this issue. But, it doesn’t feel too busy or overworked. Hickman spends just enough time on each story to give you some information while leaving you wanting more. I definitely liked this issue and now I can’t wait to (a) read next month’s issue and (b) pick up the back issues. My verdict: Great.

The Verdict

Much better than the issues I read earlier in both series. I don’t think I’ll pick up the other Ultimate titles right now. Okay, I lied. I added both Ultimate Black Panther and Ultimate X-Men to the pull list for next month. Ultimate Marvel December 2024 sold me on the line for now.

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The Incredible Hulk 800

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Introduction

You know we like a nice round number around here. From Detective Comics and Action Comics 1000 to Spawn 300, all of those issues received special treatment from the 2 Generations Gaming crew. I thought I might miss The Incredible Hulk 800 because of a lapse in ordering from DCBS, but that fear was unfounded.

Instead, the book arrived with this month’s comics. Along with a couple of unexpected Ultimate marvel books, that gives me four different Marvel articles this month. Crazy how that all works out. But, a good problem to have.

The Incredible Hulk 800 Synopsis and Thoughts

Writer: Phillip Kennedy Johnson, Artist: Nic Klein

With Hulk incapacitated, Charlie faces off against the Eldest. Convinced of its superiority and that Hulk is sufficiently out, the Eldest taunts Charlie. As often happens in these showdowns, the Eldest overplays its hand. Charlie assumes the form of Lycanna and takes out the other skinwalkers. This gives Hulk the distraction necessary to break free. The Eldest will not take this lying down and now Banner will have to deal with the aftermath.

A cool, but slightly anticlimactic showdown between Hulk and the Eldest. I know it’s not done, but it all just happened so fast. Granted, PKJ spent the better part of the last few issues building up to this, so I forgive him for the quick conclusion to this particular part of the arc. Also, he telegraphed Charlie’s transformation some, but I applaud the effort. Nice touch. Besides, the conclusion provided just enough of a cliffhanger to keep me wanting more next time around. My verdict: Great.

The Other Stories

Greg Pak gives us a classic team up story with Cho and Hulk that leads to Banner again trying to convince Cho that he’s a monster through and through. Cho refuses to believe it. He vows to Hulk and Banner that they’ll never truly be alone. You all know that I love Greg Pak and his take on both Hulk and Cho. While typical of his stories, I think he wrote it to introduce new readers to Cho’s character and he succeeded in getting the main point across. My verdict: Good.

Then comes a She-Hulk story written by Torunn Gronbekk. I know what you all think I’m going to say here. A She-Hulk story without Rainbow Rowell? Why even bother? And, yes, I admit that was my first reaction. However, even though I never enjoyed Gronbekk’s Venom, I love her Catwoman and liked this version of She-Hulk very much. A supernatural story complete with slightly creepy little girl that retains all the fun that Rowell wrote into the title. My verdict: Good.

Finally, Benjamin Percy delivers a Red Hulk story. It gives us all of the anger and violence of the character as Ross infiltrates a terrorist cell and executes the leader. This gains the attention of Doom, who wishes to form an alliance with Ross. This all sets up for Planet Doom or whatever they plan for 2025. Of all the Hulks, I like Red the least. You probably surmised that from my synopsis. In any case, I liked this story fine. My verdict: Decent.

The Verdict

The Incredible Hulk 800 delivers on what we expect from milestone issues lately. A compelling continuation of the current story. Plus, a few mini stories of varying quality. I liked all of the ones in this issue.

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X Books November 2024

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Introduction

I started this trend last month, I think. I missed almost all of the Krakoa era books other than a few random issues and the very end. I tried to make up for it by ordering as many books as possible this time around. Due to less free time and the usual down tick in motivation around this time of year brings the misnamed X Books November 2024. But, hey, you’re used to that kind of thing around here.

Exceptional X-Men 2

Writer: Eve Ewing, Artist: Carmen Carnero

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Last issue saw Kitty Pryde trying, in vain, to put recent events behind her and live a life as normal as possible given her situation. She ran into a young mutant and that complicated her plans. Further complications arrived in the form of Emma Frost. This issue continues that story with Kitty meeting up with other mutants and coming closer to a team. That is until Emma arrives at the end to ensure they’ll be in good hands with her.

The great thing about so many different books after the fall of Krakoa is that we get many different versions of how everyone deals with that fall and the aftermath. I especially like this story because it puts Kitty in the Charles role with Emma Frost as her Magneto. I expect stories similar to She-Hulk with Rowell and that makes me happy to have that vibe again monthly. My verdict: Good.

Phoenix 4

Writer: Stephanie Phillips, Artist: Alessandro Miracolo

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Jean and Carol take some time to celebrate after the events of the last issue. Jean remains ever vigilant, but Carol implores her to just enjoy herself. That vigilance proves prescient as the council plans some way to reign in the Phoenix before she destroys all. Gorr the God Butcher answers that call and kills Jean after a brief fight. Fear not, True Believers, as the Phoenix rises from that death more powerful.

I couldn’t get into the previous story. I think that might have been because I missed the set up. I often don’t like the universe spanning stories and prefer things to be more personal. This one takes the good from both of those storytelling methods to bring a personal touch to a godlike power that can destroy everything. My verdict: Decent.

The Uncanny X-Men 3 and 4 (Legacy 703 and 704)

Writer: Gail Simone, Artist: David Marquez

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Rogue takes the lead in this book. She and Logan bicker about their roles in the team as Logan threatens constantly to go back to “lone wolf” mode any minute. While he broods in the wild, Sarah Gaunt attacks the team, taking out Kurt. She then makes her way to Logan and leaves him bloodied. Rogue faces off against Gaunt while the rest of the team deals with the army she sent to kill them. Logan gets back on his feet, ready to fight, on the last panel.

You all know by now that Gail Simone is one of my favorite writers ever. She wasted no time in sending an existential threat to kill Rogue’s fledgling team. Remember when I said that the books allow for different types of storytelling? Well, this one goes straight for the jugular and leaves you breathless by the end of it all. This might be my favorite of the X Books November 2024. My verdict: Great.

X-Force 4 (Legacy 294)

Writer: Geoffrey Thorne, Artist: Marcus To.

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Forge’s team rises from their defeat at the end of the previous issue, dust themselves off, and go back at defeating Nuklo. They need to lead him away from civilization. That takes them into the realm of Man-Thing, who offers his assistance in the fight. Nuklo falls and the Avengers also arrive on the scene to help deal with the aftermath, shocking Forge with Storm’s presence.

They sold this issue as a Man-Thing story and then he only showed up in 4 or 5 pages towards the end. Then, the Avengers show up? Kind of random. I like this iteration of X-Force. It’s just that this story was all over the place. Maybe they’ll find their footing in the next one. My verdict: Decent.

X-Men 5 and 6 (Legacy 305 and 306)

Writer: Jed MacKay, Artist: Ryan Stegman

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Psylocke and Kid Omega go on a “psychic mission”. While there, they learn that someone is activating the x-gene in order to create new mutants. One of the mutants that has been reborn is Cassandra Nova. Then, as the team trains, Magik and Temper search for a mutant girl. There, they find out that the feral sentinel is hunting her down. Feels like both of these things are connected and will collide sooner rather than later.

The MacKay takeover of X-Men hasn’t quite lived up to the previous era so far. I like the stories that he’s telling and he’s making the group into something that I can enjoy. But, I just think that Gail Simone is dealing with things much better right now. MacKay’s irreverence works with the Avengers, but it doesn’t quite fit right now with the X-Men. Like X-Force, I hope the title finds it’s voice soon. My verdict: Decent.

The Verdict

In the wake of the end of such a massive story, X Books November 2024 are still finding their voice and footing. While the books overall are good, I just don’t think that things are coming together as well as maybe they could. I know in a few months, I will probably be eating these words once everything does finally work. For now, though, I stand by my assessment.

Images taken from Marvel.com

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Marvel Comics November 2024

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Introduction

Still running behind on the web page. I thought it might work out because I missed an order on DCBS. So, fill in with this round of comics and the X-Books next week. Then, I got the shipping notification from them, so I missed an order, just not this one. Oh well, I’ll figure it out eventually. We always do here. Anyway, with the uptick of X-Books and the cancelling of many of my favorites, I only have 5 books to review for Marvel Comics November 2024. And, I’m not going to review one of them. Well, six if you count Amazing Spider-Man. But, I’m not until they find a new writer.

The Avengers 19 (Legacy 785)

Writer: Jed McKay, Artist: Farid Karami

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: The Avengers, minus Black Panther who takes on a recon mission into the Tesseract Diadem, relax on the Impossible City and welcome Storm into their ranks. Doom calls upon them and meets them in a desert in Afghanistan. He poses a question to them. Why, with all of your power, have you not united the world to create it in your image? They refuse his premise and he leaves. In the aftermath, they muse about the purpose of the exercise. Eventually, they come to the conclusion that the offer was real and since they didn’t take him up on it, he intends to do what they wouldn’t.

An interesting lead in to what will eventually become World War Doom or whatever they’re calling the next event. Not an overly action packed issue necessarily, it still made me think. Is there some benefit to having a unified force for the betterment of society? Humans, by and large, haven’t exactly done a great job of it historically. Food for thought. The art is passable, but nothing extraordinary. Fine for what the issue entails. My verdict: Good.

Writer: Ryan North, Artist: Ivan Fiorelli

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Another story driven issue. Reed and Johnny work excavating a basement. They hit a boulder that Johnny incinerates and it releases a bunch of ghosts. After thinking they sealed the “ghostmouth” as Johnny calls it, the ghosts again escape. They spend the rest of the issue trying to figure out what’s causing it, eventually saving the day. They tell the story to the rest of the crew and because some of the furniture got demolished, Johnny takes the kids to camp in the yard for Halloween.

When I say this is one of the best books out there, this is what I mean. North takes a completely stand alone approach to many of these stories. It harkens back to the older comic books where a story wrapped up in 22 pages. No need for six issue arcs or massive crossovers. Just two characters getting into minor mischief and solving it. This also shows the advantage of keeping teams together. The art fits so well with North’s story and vision and matches the characters perfectly. My verdict: Great.

The Immortal Thor 16 (Legacy 777)

Writer: Al Ewing, Artist: Jan Bazaldua

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: A fight between Thor and Radioactive Man becomes and ambush by The Cobra and Mr. Hyde. Finally, Grey Gargoyle turns him to stone. All except for his belt. Even so, they take advantage and decapitate Stone Thor.

Ewing obviously went on a deep dive in the Marvel wikis. He pulled from the C, D, and F lists on this one. But, he tells a compelling story with these characters and makes a highly unlikely outcome feel like a foregone conclusion. I came into this book expecting the Hulk treatment. Instead, he made a goofy left turn and brought everyone with him. While simplistic, the art gives enough detail during the important panels to not distract from the story. My verdict: Good.

The Incredible Hulk 18 (Legacy 799)

Writer: Phillip Kennedy Johnson, Artists: Danny Earl, Nic Klein

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: One last issue of set up before the big 800. Hulk reckons with Banner’s betrayal and Charlie teams with members of the cult to try to escape. Or, she may end up trapped forever.

I love this iteration of Hulk. And, while it took some time, the art has grown on me and it doesn’t distract as much from the story. It’s just there’s been a lot of set up recently. I hope that PKJ can pull off the eventual showdown and make it worth the wait. My verdict: Good.

Not Reviewed: Venom. Can we just move on, please?

The Verdict (Marvel Comics November 2024)

Marvel Comics November 2024 gives us mostly story building without a ton of action. That’s fine, though, because all of the stories are good and worth reading. It feels empty with so few books, but maybe I will build the stable up again in the future. Come back next week to see what the X-Books bring.

Images taken from Marvel.com

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X-Books October 2024

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Introduction

I went from missing the entire Krakoa era (other than the very end) to trying to collect as many of the mutant based titles as possible. As a result, X-Books October 2024 outpaces the other Marvel books for last month and this month. And, I haven’t even collected all of the possible books. Each month it seems like they add a new one or I find one that I missed. Clearly, the mutants are carrying Marvel Comics right now and they’re using them to hype up the eventual reveal in the MCU.

Exceptional X-Men #1

Writer: Eve L. Ewing, Artist: Carmen Carnero

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Kitty tries to adjust to normal life in the wake of the fall of Krakoa. She’s a bartender, attending therapy, and going out on dates. No plans to start and lead a new team of mutants. Then, she intervenes in the rescue of just such a young mutant. But, still, not going to recruit that mutant into a team. Back to work. Or, is she? Emma Frost reaches out to find several of the X-Men and settles on Kitty. What plans does she have?

I loved Eve L. Ewing’s Black Panther story. I’m glad she’s back and writing for this book. It has some of the charm of She-Hulk, but not quite on the same level. As long as she keeps some of that fun in the book, I’ll keep coming back for more. The art, too, gives me a reason to enjoy the book. Carnero understands the assignment and gives the book a colorful look that adds to the fun. My verdict: Great start.

Nyx #3

Writers: Jackson Lanzing and Collin Kelly, Artist: Francesco Mortarino

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: The mutants of Nyx bid farewell to one of their fallen as they continue to face prejudice and attacks. In the aftermath, they welcome Anole into their family. Kamala Khan also makes an appearance, fighting alongside X-23. She continues to get pushed to think of herself again as Ms. Marvel and join the fight completely, an act that will tip the scales in the battle.

Lanzing and Kelly brought me my favorite Guardians of the Galaxy story, maybe ever. They pick up this title, another rag tag group of heroes that call themselves a family and bring much of the same magic to Nyx. I never heard of the title before now, but I’m glad that they enticed me to read it by putting these writers together again. The art lacks some detail, but I like the use of two page panels to bring more action when called for. My verdict: Great.

Phoenix #3

Writer: Stephanie Phillips, Artist: Alessandro Miracolo

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Jean works to rescue an entire planet of abductees. Tipped off by Corsair, she wonders if she can even trust him. But, she goes through with it nonetheless. They have a showdown and the final page reveals who was behind the entire plot. The Black Order, scions of Thanos, now work to try to bring down the Phoenix.

This story is one of the few from these titles that doesn’t resonate with me. I never got into the original Phoenix story and the only recent experience I have is when they revealed that the Phoenix force was Thor’s mom or whatever. Not sure if that is even canon anymore, so who the heck knows. I don’t hate the story. It’s just that I can’t get into these galaxy spanning storylines as well as the more personal and down to earth ones. I will say the art is pretty in this book and that helps me to make it through the story. My verdict: Good.

The Uncanny X-Men #2 (Legacy 702)

Writer: Gail Simone, Artist: David Marquez

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Like Nyx, the Uncanny bunch stumbles on a group of wild and untrained mutants. Initially, Wolverine causes a ruckus and the two groups battle. Jubilee comes back from a visit to the prison and brokers a tentative peace between them. Logan refuses any part of the mentoring or training. Interspersed in the story, they read from the journal of Charles Xavier and it gives some insight into where this story might go.

Marvel continues to sucker me into titles with writers that I love. This time, Gail Simone brings her unique ability to make these super powered beings completely human, even the mutants. By the end of this story, I expect to laugh more, cry more, and cheer when all is said and done. Right now, she’s masterfully setting up the pieces. Marquez helps to establish that humanity and those relationships with his very real portrayal of their facial expressions and other interactions. A good team for this title. My verdict: Great.

X-Force #3 (Legacy 283)

Writer: Geoffrey Thorne, Artist: Marcus To.

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Forge’s team makes their way to confront the Fracture Node. They pick up on a massive force in the same area and try to neutralize that, as well. Neither goes according to plan because Nuklo feeds off of the anomaly and vice versa. They sacrifice themselves in the name of saving the day and end up on the verge of destruction.

This book is wild. While some of the other books focused on character building and the more human side of things, this one went balls to the wall with action right out of the gate. Usually, that’s not my thing, but it works with this book and this team. Add to the fact that the art is probably some of the best in the X-Books October 2024 and I want more of all of it. My verdict: Very good.

X-Men #4 (Legacy 304)

Writer: Jed MacKay, Artist: Netho Diaz

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: An insane group of social media “stars” go live on a regular basis to kill mutants for clicks, likes, and subscribers. When the X-Men track them down from landmarks in the background, an epic battle ensues. What’s worse is that each member of the group seems to have a power that nullifies one of the X-Men. They return to report their success to the Sugar Man. The X-Men return to their base to regroup and come up with another game plan. At the end, an old friend awaits as Magick’s chess partner.

This article mirrors X-Factor some. So much so that it made me think of that book and why I never added it to my pull list. Oh well. A long weekend coming up that maybe I can use to travel to That’s Entertainment to fill in some of the books that I missed. I think I never put in an order for next month, so I need to pick up some books. Anyway, I liked this story more than what they did in X-Factor, which is why I mention it. MacKay gives us a reason to care about the social media aspect of the story. My verdict: Good.

The Verdict (X-Books October 2024)

Just like the main Marvel books, X-Books October 2024 brings some great stories. I liked every book, even if Phoenix isn’t quite my cup of tea. A few months ago, others joined mine and Chris’s chorus of “comics might be dead” and then DC sold half a million Absolute Batman books. So, I’m just sticking with my, “this might just be another golden age of comics” and if you’re not reading, you’re missing out.

Images downloaded from Marvel.

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Marvel Comics October 2024

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Introduction

My commitment to the page can not be questioned. My ability to live up to that commitment, however, remains very much in question. Last month, I posted 7 articles and I posted 5 so far this month. Hopefully, with Thanksgiving break, I make it to double digits this month. It remains to be seen. This week, I plan to post this Marvel Comics October 2024 article, then Marvel from November, then the X-Books from both months.

I also want to finish my Thankful articles with Sega/Nintendo and Steam. That gets me 6 more articles and up to 11 for the month. While not the best number for momentum building, at least I can point to something for this month. I promise, folks, I will get this page and the supporting content back to our semi-regular updates soon. How soon? Well, I’m done making promises. 😜

The Avengers 18 (Legacy 784)

Writer: Jed McKay, Artist: Velerio Schiti

Quick Synopsis and Review: Hyperion hurtles through space on a collision course with Earth. The Avengers realize and recognize the threat and try to neutralize it before it destroys the planet. The X-Men also make a cameo, as do the gods of Asgard. In the end, they come up with a plan to dimension shift him into another Earth that needs his assistance. Problem solved. Also, Thor formally asks Storm to become part of the team.

A bit anticlimactic on this one. I realize that not everything can be a 6 issue arc with the fate of the universe on the line, but I expected more from this story. However, those who saw McKay taking over for X-Men and predicting another AvX story just got a pretty big hint that may happen sooner rather than later. Schiti’s art is absolutely gorgeous and gives us the Avengers level team we need on this title. My verdict: Decent.

Captain America 13 (Legacy 763)

Writer: J. Michael Straczynski, Artist: Carlos Magno

Quick Synopsis and Review: Tell JMS that not everything needs to be a six issue arc with the literal fate of the human race on the line. Cap and his crew fight through the army sent by death. Cap realizes that he, alone, must face death and does so in an epic clash that goes on for about a dozen pages and includes a “final form” that doesn’t quite work out as intended. Cap defeats Death but, in doing so, isolates him and “ensures the downfall of humans” according to Death. So, where do we go from here?

The last two issues finally paid this story off. I think JMS wanted to write Dr. Strange, because this story reminded me very much of a Dr. Strange story instead of Cap. But, he pulled it together and gave it the Cap treatment. The fight between Cap and Death and the uncertain ending give me hope that this book is in good hands. While the art takes some shortcuts here and there, Magno knows when to bring the full monty and give us what we want. My verdict: Great.

Fantastic Four 25 (Legacy 718)

Writer: Ryan North, Artist: Carlos Gomez

Quick Synopsis and Review: Meanwhile, Ryan North continues to show why he’s the best pick for this book. Nearly all of his stories harken back to the early days of comics and Fantastic Four where everything can be contained within a single issue. They start in Latveria where they find a mysterious dome. When they touch it, they are instantly transported to an alien planet! They teach and learn from the denizens of the world. Johnny finds himself love. The FF also find a terrible secret on the planet that threatens the lives of many. Because they’re heroes, they solve the problem and jet off of the planet for the next adventure.

Now that Rainbow Rowell is no longer writing She-Hulk and they killed the GotG again, this might be my new favorite book. It always jostled for the top with the other two books, but now there’s no denying it. I love, LOVE how North writes the Fantastic Four. And Gomez’s art never lets me down. He has a good grasp on the characters and what makes them unique. My verdict: Great.

The Incredible Hulk 16/17 (Legacy 797/798)

Writer: Phillip Kennedy Johnson, Artists: Daniel Earls and Nic Klein

Quick Synopsis and Review: Issue 16 deals with some of the history of the Eldest. The normal ultraviolence that comes with such a being. The end sets up (again) the confrontation between Hulk and the Eldest. In issue 17, Hulk arrives at Vegas and accepts the invitation from the Eldest. Meanwhile, Banner is trapped in the Hulkscape and trying to find a way to free himself. Betty (not real) torments him. Later, after confronting the Eldest, this Betty subdues Hulk in order to allow for the true ascension of the Eldest.

Both issues accomplish what they want. I think Marvel realized that 800 was on the horizon and dragged things out a little bit. That’s all well and good, but it makes for some repetition in the story, like issue 16. I loved 17, though, and PKJ writes Hulk on par with Ewing. I’m glad they brought him on after some subpar runs in between. The art still bothers me, but it’s starting to grow on me some, too. My verdict: Overall, good.

The Verdict (Marvel Comics October 2024)

I lost She-Hulk, Dr. Strange, Guardians of the Galaxy over the last six months or so. That leaves only the books above in my regular rotation. I picked up some of the new Ultimate Marvel stuff, but I have to say, I don’t really like it all that much. And, so Marvel Comics October 2024 is a small but mighty bunch.

Not Reviewed: Any Amazing Spider-Man with Zeb Wells writing. Also, Venom 37 (still Venom War? another Venom War? I’m tired, Boss.)

Images downloaded from Marvel.com.