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 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 synopsis teases a clash: "Bucky, Songbird, Sharon Carter, and the Midnight Angels target Doom's vibranium supply, only to face off against…the Thunderbolts! Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts!"
The slideshow below offers a sneak peek. 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" 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 victories against Hydra and the Kingpin inadvertently paved the path for Doom's ascension.
Lanzing explains, "Bucky neutralized the Red Skull, Kingpin's finances, and the US Government's primary deterrent. This destabilized Hydra, the criminal underworld, and the US, actions intended to improve global safety. However, he also inadvertently empowered Victor Von Doom, used as a tool to eliminate the Red Skull—a decision with dire consequences."
Kelly reveals that their "Worldstrike" storyline was always intended to lead to a Doom-focused sequel. North's company-wide Doom crossover event was a fortuitous development.
"Planning the follow-up, we learned of the new Marvel Universe status quo: 'One World Under Doom'," Kelly states. "Ryan North's work utilized Bucky's manipulation of Doom as a catalyst for Doom's rise. This new 'Thunderbolts' mission isn't just a fight against evil; it's a judgment on 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 narrative since his resurrection as the Winter Soldier.
"Bucky's guilt, from his Winter Soldier past or Outer Circle missions, has burdened him," Kelly says. "Just as he thought he could move on, he's burdened with the responsibility of Doom's rise. Doom understands this and will weaponize his guilt. The weight will intensify, and Bucky might struggle to cope."
Lanzing adds insights into the other Thunderbolts' motivations: Songbird acts out of loyalty and heroism, grappling with the loss of Abner Jenkins; 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. Other team 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
A key element of "Doomstrike" is the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts lineup. While Songbird sides with Bucky, most of her former comrades support Emperor Doom. Issue #3's cover depicts the inevitable conflict.
Kelly notes, "We're excited to bring back the original Thunderbolts and pit them against Bucky's team. From Songbird and Abner's relationship to Citizen V's return, it's an honor to revisit these characters and their core dilemma: is redemption possible for villains?"
Lanzing explains, "It's not Bucky using the name; it's Doom. In Doom's world, heroes are under his control, forming his 'Fulgar Victoris.' Why are they organizing? And why is Bucky the primary target?"
Songbird's position is crucial, torn between loyalty to her former teammates and her commitment to Bucky.
Kelly says, "Melissa returns ready to aid Bucky, but her history with the Thunderbolts, now serving Doom, will deeply affect her. The Thunderbolts are her world, and this conflict will profoundly impact her."
Kelly and Lanzing's work with Bucky spans several 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. We call it the 'Revolution Saga,' starting with 'Devil's Reign: Winter Soldier,' expanding in 'Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty' and 'Captain America: Cold War,' culminating in 'Thunderbolts: Worldstrike.' Bucky has uncovered his origins, clashed with his friend, found love, and adopted a new identity—all culminating here. Fans of our previous work shouldn't miss this—it's the grand finale."
Considering the upcoming "Thunderbolts" film, Kelly and Lanzing hope to attract MCU viewers.
Kelly states, "Absolutely. MCU Bucky fans will find our Bucky familiar—initially. While details differ, this story explains Contessa Valentina's threat. For Bucky/Natasha fans, their romance is central. With Doom's MCU appearance, this story and 'One World Under Doom' offer a terrifying introduction to a great villain. We hope that movie fans will seek out 'Thunderbolts: Worldstrike' and 'Doomstrike' and discover the world of Marvel comics."
Which 2025 Comic Are You Most Excited For?
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"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #1 releases February 19, 2025. Learn more about Marvel's 2025 plans and anticipated comics.
