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 dominion. This narrative unfolds in 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 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's Rise?
"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" builds upon Kelly and Lanzing's 2023 "Thunderbolts" relaunch. Bucky Barnes leads a team tasked with confronting major villains, employing any necessary means. Their victories, however, inadvertently paved Doom's path to power.
Lanzing explains, "Bucky neutralized the Red Skull, Kingpin's finances, and the US's primary deterrent. This left a power vacuum, unintentionally inspiring Victor Von Doom, whom Bucky used as a pawn. One doesn't weaponize Doom without consequences."
Kelly reveals that their "Worldstrike" storyline was designed to lead to a Doom-focused sequel. North's company-wide Doom crossover was a fortuitous alignment. "Doomstrike" becomes a referendum on Bucky's choices, a chance for redemption, but at a tremendous cost.
Bucky's guilt, stemming from his past as the Winter Soldier, intensifies with his role in Doom's ascension. Kelly notes, "This new burden compounds existing guilt, and Doom will exploit it."
The Thunderbolts' motivations are diverse. Songbird acts out of loyalty and heroism, yet carries the pain of loss. Black Widow prioritizes Bucky's safety. Destroyer is already on a mission. Sharon Carter combats fascism. U.S. Agent is disillusioned. 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; read issue #1 to find out."
Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts
"Doomstrike" features the original 1997 Thunderbolts lineup, many now aligned with 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 the Thunderbolts in his regime. The reasons behind their actions remain a mystery.
Songbird's loyalty is tested, caught between her past and present allegiances. Kelly describes her return as stylish and determined, but the conflict with her former comrades will deeply affect her.
This series concludes Kelly and Lanzing's long-running Bucky Barnes storyline, building on their work in "Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty" and "Captain America: Cold War."
Lanzing states, "This is our final Bucky Barnes story for now. It's the culmination of the 'Revolution Saga,' encompassing previous works. Fans of our past work shouldn't miss this."
Kelly and Lanzing aim to engage MCU viewers, highlighting the familiarity of their Bucky, the machinations of Contessa, the Bucky/Natasha romance, and the introduction of Doom.
"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #1 releases February 19, 2025.
