Robert Downey Jr. and the Russo brothers are bringing Doctor Doom back into the Marvel universe in a big way! If Marvel's claims are accurate, Doom's reign will be a prolonged era akin to "Dark Reign," rather than a short-lived event. This means the Marvel universe will continue throughout most of 2025, but under Doom's iron fist as World Emperor, Sorcerer Supreme, and leader of the Superior Avengers.
Predictably, the Superior Avengers will consist of villains, but not the familiar versions. Familiar names will be attached to new characters:
- Abomination: Kristoff, Doom's adopted son and Reed Richards' half-brother.
- Dr. Octopus: A new, unnamed woman.
- Ghost: A nameless woman, referencing Ant-Man.
- Killmonger: A reimagined version.
- Malekith: The Black Elves remain on Earth.
- Onslaught: A new interpretation.
The Superior Avengers miniseries, a six-issue run written by Steve Fox and illustrated by Luca Maresca, launches in April.
This isn't a novel concept. Norman Osborn's Dark Avengers in 2009 featured villainous replacements for the Avengers, and Hydra's Avengers in the Secret Empire event also utilized villainous counterparts.
But how did Doom achieve the titles of World Emperor and Sorcerer Supreme, and assemble the Superior Avengers? This guide will trace the steps leading to "One World Under Doom."
Table of Contents:
- Emperor Doom
- President Doom 2099
- Secret Wars
- Blood Hunt
Emperor Doom: While Emperor Doom (1987) is a significant storyline, it's not the origin point of Doom's global dominance. The core concept of a world ruled by Doom is powerfully presented.
President Doom 2099: In Doom 2099, a future Doom nearly conquers America, showcasing his ambition and unique perspective.
Secret Wars: Doom's role in Secret Wars (2015) exemplifies his relentless pursuit of power and immortality, even if his methods are self-serving.
Blood Hunt: The 2024 Vampire Invasion event, a crucial stepping stone, sees Doctor Strange entrusting Doom with the mantle of Sorcerer Supreme to combat vampirism. Doom retains this power even after the threat is ostensibly neutralized.
As we await further details from Downey Jr. and the Russos, let's prepare for a world definitively under Doom's control.
