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). The synopsis hints at a thrilling clash: Bucky, Songbird, Sharon Carter, and the Midnight Angels target Doom's vibranium supply, only to face off against… the Thunderbolts!
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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 Marvel villains, employing any necessary means. Their victories, however, inadvertently paved the path for Doom's ascension.
Lanzing explains that Bucky's actions—eliminating the Red Skull, crippling the Kingpin, and weakening US defenses—created a power vacuum exploited by Doom, whom Bucky used as a tool. Kelly reveals that a Doom-centric storyline was always planned as a sequel to "Worldstrike." The "One World Under Doom" crossover event, spearheaded by Ryan North, conveniently aligned with their vision.
Bucky's guilt over Doom's rise is central to "Doomstrike." Kelly points out that guilt has been a constant in Bucky's narrative since his resurrection as the Winter Soldier. This new burden will intensify, with Doom exploiting Bucky's remorse.
The Thunderbolts' motivations are varied. Songbird acts out of loyalty to Bucky, but also grapples with the loss of Abner Jenkins. Black Widow prioritizes Bucky's safety. Destroyer, Sharon Carter, and US Agent each have their reasons to oppose Doom. Ghost Rider '44, a longtime friend, adds another layer to the conflict.
Regarding Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, Kelly teases that her role is complex and requires reading issue #1.
Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts
"Doomstrike" features the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts, many now aligned with Doom. The clash between Bucky's team and Doom's forces is a significant plot point. Kelly highlights the thematic exploration of redemption for villains. Lanzing emphasizes that Doom, not Bucky, controls this iteration of the Thunderbolts, raising questions about their motives and Bucky's position as a prime target.
Songbird's internal conflict between loyalty to her past and commitment to Bucky's cause will be pivotal. Kelly describes her return as energized but emotionally torn by the allegiance of her former comrades to Doom.
"Doomstrike" serves as the culmination of Kelly and Lanzing's multi-year Bucky Barnes storyline, spanning "Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty" and "Captain America: Cold War." Lanzing refers to it as the finale of their "Revolution Saga," encompassing Bucky's origin discovery, conflicts with his friend, renewed romance, and the adoption of a new identity.
The creators express their hope that "Doomstrike," along with "Worldstrike," will attract MCU viewers, particularly those familiar with Bucky, Natasha's relationship, and the looming presence of Doom in the MCU.
Which 2025 Comic Are You Most Excited For?
[Poll: Options include One World Under Doom, Batman: Hush 2, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, etc.]
"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #1 releases February 19, 2025.
