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 solicitation hints at an explosive conflict: "Bucky, Songbird, Sharon Carter, and the Midnight Angels target Doctor 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 neutralizing major Marvel villains. Their successes, however, inadvertently paved the path for Doom's ascent.
Lanzing explains, "Bucky neutralized the Red Skull, crippled Kingpin's finances, and weakened US government defenses. This was meant to inspire positive change, but it also emboldened Victor Von Doom, whom Bucky used as a tool. One doesn't weaponize Doom without consequences."
Kelly reveals that a Doom-focused storyline was always planned. The company-wide "One World Under Doom" crossover was a fortuitous alignment. "Bucky's manipulation of Doom became a key event in Doom's rise to power, making this mission a referendum on Bucky's choices. 'Doomstrike' offers Bucky a chance at redemption, but it will push him to his limits."
Bucky's guilt, stemming from his past as the Winter Soldier, will be central to "Doomstrike." Kelly notes, "This new burden, coupled with Doom's awareness of it, will be Doom's greatest weapon."
Lanzing details the varied motivations of the Thunderbolts: Songbird, driven by loyalty and a desire for heroism; Black Widow, focused on Bucky's safety; Sharon Carter, combating fascism; U.S. Agent, disillusioned by his country's subjugation; and Ghost Rider '44, a long-time friend of Bucky. Other members remain a surprise.
Regarding Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, Kelly teases, "That's a complex question best answered by reading issue #1."
Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts: A Clash of Eras
"Doomstrike" features the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts, most of whom now serve Emperor Doom. A conflict between Bucky's team and the original Thunderbolts is inevitable.
Kelly highlights the return of the original Thunderbolts, exploring the theme of redemption. Lanzing explains that Doom, not Bucky, controls this new iteration of the Thunderbolts, highlighting the stakes. Songbird's loyalty is tested as she's caught between her past and present allegiances.
Kelly and Lanzing's work on Bucky spans several years, including "Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty" and "Captain America: Cold War." "Doomstrike" serves as the culmination of their "Revolution Saga," making it essential for fans of their previous Bucky stories. Lanzing confirms, "It's the grand finale for our work on Bucky."
The timing of "Doomstrike" coincides with the May release of the "Thunderbolts" movie. Kelly expresses hope that the comic will attract MCU viewers, particularly given the shared team roster. He believes the story will resonate with fans of MCU Bucky, Natasha, and Doom.
Which 2025 Comic Are You Most Excited For?
[Poll: Options include One World Under Doom, Batman: Hush 2, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Deadpool/Wolverine, etc.]
"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #1 releases February 19, 2025.
