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 where Doctor Doom, the new Sorcerer Supreme, proclaims himself world emperor. This narrative unfolds in Ryan North and R.B. Silva's "One World Under Doom" miniseries and numerous tie-in titles. A crucial 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 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 VS. THUNDERBOLTS!"
The slideshow below showcases the preview. Kelly and Lanzing discuss the series, highlighting its role as the culmination of a long-running 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" continues the narrative from the 2023 "Thunderbolts" relaunch by Kelly and Lanzing. This iteration, led by Bucky Barnes, aggressively confronts major Marvel villains. Their successes against Hydra and the Kingpin, however, inadvertently paved the path for Doom's ascension.
Lanzing explains, "Bucky neutralized the Red Skull, Kingpin's finances, and the American Kaiju. This left Hydra leaderless, the underworld defunded, and the US Government without its primary deterrent. While intended to improve the world, it inadvertently empowered Victor Von Doom, who was used as a tool against the Red Skull. Using Doom as a weapon is a mistake one regrets."
Kelly reveals that the "Worldstrike" storyline was always meant to culminate in a Doom-focused sequel. The company-wide "One World Under Doom" crossover, spearheaded by Ryan North, proved a fortuitous alignment.
Kelly states, "Planning the sequel, we learned about 'One World Under Doom.' We discovered that Bucky's manipulation of Doom was a pivotal event in his rise to power. This 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 points out that guilt has been a constant in Bucky's story since his resurrection as the Winter Soldier.
Kelly adds, "Bucky's guilt, from his Winter Soldier days or Outer Circle missions, has weighed him down. Just as he thought he was turning a corner, he's burdened with the responsibility of Doom's rise. Doom knows this and will exploit his guilt. After the first issue, that burden will be amplified, and even his metal arm might not save him."
Lanzing elaborates on the other Thunderbolts' motivations: Songbird acts out of loyalty to Bucky and her own heroism; 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 fray. Additional members remain a surprise.
Regarding Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, Kelly teases, "Val's role is more complex; readers must discover it in issue #1."
Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts
A key element of "Doomstrike" is the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts team. While Songbird sides with Bucky, most of her former comrades support Emperor Doom. Issue #3's cover depicts the inevitable clash.
Kelly explains, "We're thrilled to bring back the original Thunderbolts and pit them against Bucky's team. From Songbird and Abner's heartbreaking conclusion 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, "It's not Bucky using the name; it's Doom. Under Doom's rule, heroes are under his control, forming his 'Fulgar Victoris.' Why are they organizing? And why is Bucky the primary target?"
Songbird's central role will see her torn between loyalty to her old team and her commitment to Bucky.
Kelly says, "Melissa returns, ready to aid Bucky. But her history with the Thunderbolts, now serving Doom, will break her heart. They are her world, and dealing with this will deeply impact her."
Kelly and Lanzing's work with 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 teases, "This is our final Bucky Barnes story for now. We've been telling the 'Revolution Saga,' starting with 'Devil's Reign: Winter Soldier,' exploding in 'Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty,' motivating 'Captain America: Cold War,' and centering on Bucky in 'Thunderbolts: Worldstrike.' He's uncovered his origins, clashed with his friend, found love, and adopted a new identity, but 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 hope to attract MCU viewers.
Kelly states, "Absolutely. MCU Bucky fans will find our Bucky familiar, at least initially. While the details differ, this story shows why Contessa is such a threat. For Bucky and Natasha fans, their romance is central. With Doom's upcoming MCU appearance, this story and 'One World Under Doom' are a terrifying introduction to one of Marvel's greatest villains. We hope that when movie fans seek more, 'Thunderbolts: Worldstrike' and 'Doomstrike' will draw them into the world of Marvel comics."
"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.
