2025: A Marvel Universe Under Doom's Reign
The Marvel Universe in 2025? One word: "Doom." February marks the launch of "One World Under Doom," a massive crossover event. Doctor Doom, the newly crowned Sorcerer Supreme, claims global dominion. This epic narrative unfolds in Ryan North and R.B. Silva's "One World Under Doom" miniseries and numerous tie-in titles. A key component 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 an explosive clash: "Bucky, Songbird, Sharon Carter, and the Midnight Angels target Doom's vibranium supply, only to face off against…the Thunderbolts?! Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts – enough said!"
The slideshow below offers a sneak peek. Kelly and Lanzing discuss the series, highlighting its role as the culmination of a multi-year Bucky Barnes storyline.
Exclusive Preview Gallery of Thunderbolts: Doomstrike #3
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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 villains, employing any necessary means. Their victories, however, inadvertently paved the path for Doom's ascension.
Lanzing explains, "Bucky neutralized the Red Skull, crippled Kingpin's finances, and undermined US government deterrence. This was meant to inspire positive change, but it also inspired Victor Von Doom, whom Bucky used as a pawn. Using Doom as a weapon is a mistake one regrets."
Kelly reveals that "Worldstrike," their initial "Thunderbolts" arc, was always intended to lead to a Doom-focused sequel. North's company-wide Doom crossover was a fortunate coincidence.
Kelly states, "Planning the sequel, we learned of 'One World Under Doom,' spearheaded by Ryan North. Bucky's manipulation of Doom was a key inciting incident in Victor's rise. This mission isn't just a fight against evil; it's a judgment of Bucky's choices. 'Doomstrike' is Bucky's chance at redemption, but it will push him to his limits."
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.
Kelly comments, "Bucky's guilt, from his Winter Soldier days or Outer Circle missions, has weighed him down. Just when he thought he could move on, he's burdened with the responsibility for Doom's rise. Doom knows this and will weaponize his guilt. After the first issue, that weight will multiply, and even his metal arm might not save him."
Lanzing adds details on the Thunderbolts' varied motivations: Songbird acts out of loyalty to Bucky and heroism; Black Widow prioritizes Bucky's safety; Sharon Carter combats fascism; US Agent is disillusioned; and Ghost Rider '44, an old friend, re-enters the fray. Other members remain a surprise.
Regarding Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, Kelly teases, "Val's role is complex; readers need to see issue #1."
Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts
"Doomstrike" features the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts, many now allied with Emperor Doom. Issue #3's cover depicts the inevitable conflict.
Kelly explains, "We're thrilled to reunite the original Thunderbolts with Bucky's team. From Songbird and Abner's tragic end to Citizen V's disastrous return, it's an honor to revisit these characters and their core dilemma: is redemption possible for villains?"
Lanzing adds, "Doom, not Bucky, is using the Thunderbolts name. In Doom's world, heroes are under his control, forming his 'Fulgar Victoris.' But why are they organizing? And why is Bucky the primary target?"
Songbird's position is crucial. Torn between loyalty to old teammates and Bucky, she's at the heart of the conflict.
Kelly states, "Melissa returns, ready to aid Bucky. But her history with the other Thunderbolts, now serving Doom, will devastate her. The Thunderbolts are her world, and this fallout will deeply impact her."
Kelly and Lanzing's work with Bucky spans years, including "Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty" and "Captain America: Cold War." "Doomstrike" is the culmination of their Bucky storyline.
Lanzing teases, "This is our final Bucky Barnes story for now. It's the 'Revolution Saga,' starting with 'Devil's Reign: Winter Soldier,' exploding in 'Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty,' fueling 'Captain America: Cold War,' and culminating in 'Thunderbolts: Worldstrike.' Bucky uncovered his origins, clashed with his friend, found love, and became the Revolution. It all culminates here. Fans of our previous work shouldn't miss this. It's the grand finale, and we're giving it our all."
"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" coincides with the May release of the "Thunderbolts" movie. Kelly and Lanzing aim to attract MCU viewers.
Kelly says, "MCU Bucky fans will find our Bucky familiar, at least initially. While details differ, this story explains Contessa's threat. For Bucky/Natasha fans, their romance is central. With Doom's upcoming MCU appearance, this story and 'One World Under Doom' offer a terrifying introduction to one of Marvel's greatest villains. We hope that movie fans will find 'Worldstrike' and 'Doomstrike' and enter the world of Marvel comics."
Which new comic are you most excited to read in 2025? (Poll omitted for brevity)
"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #1 releases February 19, 2025. For more on the future of the Marvel Universe, check out Marvel's 2025 plans and our most anticipated comics of 2025.
