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 emperorship. 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," by Collin Kelly, Jackson Lanzing, and Tommaso Bianchi.
IGN presents an exclusive preview of "Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #3 (April release). The official synopsis hints at a thrilling conflict: "Bucky, Songbird, Sharon Carter, and the Midnight Angels devise a daring plan to target Doom's vibranium supply, only to face off against…the Thunderbolts! Thunderbolts versus Thunderbolts!"
The slideshow below showcases the preview. Further insights from Kelly and Lanzing reveal this series as the culmination of a long-running Bucky Barnes storyline.
Thunderbolts: Doomstrike #3 Exclusive Preview Gallery
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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 confronting major Marvel villains, employing any necessary means. Their successes against Hydra and the Kingpin inadvertently paved the way for Doom's ascension.
Lanzing explains, "Bucky neutralized the Red Skull, Kingpin's finances, and the US Government's primary deterrent. While intending to improve the world, he inadvertently empowered Victor Von Doom, used as a tool to eliminate the Red Skull. One doesn't weaponize Victor Von Doom without facing repercussions."
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 fortuitous development.
Kelly states, "Planning the follow-up, we learned about 'One World Under Doom.' Ryan North's work utilized Bucky's manipulation of Doom as a pivotal event in his rise. This 'Thunderbolts' mission became a judgment of Bucky's choices. 'Doomstrike' offers Bucky a chance at redemption, but it will push him to his limits."
Bucky's guilt over his role in Doom's rise is central to "Doomstrike." Kelly notes that guilt has been a constant in Bucky's narrative since his resurrection as the Winter Soldier.
Kelly says, "Bucky's guilt, stemming from his Winter Soldier past and Outer Circle missions, has burdened him. Just when he thought he could move on, he's burdened with the responsibility for Doom's power. Doom is aware of this and will exploit his guilt. This weight will intensify, and even his metal arm may not save him."
Lanzing adds context to the other Thunderbolts' motivations: Songbird acts out of loyalty and heroism, yet carries the pain of loss; Black Widow prioritizes Bucky's safety; Sharon Carter combats fascism; U.S. Agent is disillusioned; and Ghost Rider '44, an old friend, re-enters the conflict. Additional members remain a surprise.
Regarding Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, Kelly teases, "Val's role is complex; readers must discover it in issue #1."
Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts
"Doomstrike" features the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts. While Songbird aligns with Bucky, most of her former teammates side with Doom. Issue #3's cover depicts the inevitable clash.
Kelly emphasizes the return of the original Thunderbolts, highlighting the core dilemma: is redemption possible for villains?
Lanzing explains that Doom, not Bucky, controls the Thunderbolts in his world, emphasizing the conflict's stakes and Bucky's precarious position.
Songbird's internal conflict is a key element, torn between loyalty to her past and commitment to Bucky's cause. Kelly highlights her emotional turmoil.
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 Bucky storyline.
Lanzing confirms this as the "Revolution Saga" finale, urging fans to experience the conclusion.
The timing of "Doomstrike" coincides with the May release of the "Thunderbolts" film. Kelly expresses hope that the comic will attract MCU viewers, highlighting the shared elements and the introduction of Doom to a wider audience.
A poll follows, asking readers which comic they anticipate most in 2025.
"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #1 releases February 19, 2025.
