Iron Man (2020) #20-25

 

Iron Man (2020) #20-25

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Issue #20: A New Direction
Tony Stark emerges from the chaos of the Korvac Saga and Cosmic Iron Man storyline, seeking a fresh start. He proposes to Patsy Walker, aka Hellcat, in an unexpected romantic gesture, but her response is complicated. Tony wrestles with the lingering consequences of his recent cosmic escapades, including his addiction to godlike power, and struggles to rebuild his life while maintaining his connections with those he cares about. The issue sets the stage for a more introspective arc, focusing on Tony’s humanity and his relationships.

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Issue #21: Source Control Emerges
Tony’s attempt to turn over a new leaf is interrupted when an organization called Source Control—a black-market dealer of advanced weapons and technology—comes into play. Source Control acquires a cache of Stark tech that could pose a global threat. Patsy tries to pull Tony back from his obsessive tendencies, but he dives headfirst into the investigation, determined to take down the organization and reclaim his stolen tech. The issue highlights Tony’s ongoing struggle with control and responsibility.

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Issue #22: A Personal Vendetta
As Tony digs deeper into Source Control’s operations, he learns that the organization’s leader has personal ties to Stark Industries, adding a layer of guilt to Tony’s mission. Hellcat joins him in the field, providing a balance to his increasingly erratic behavior. Their partnership is tested as Source Control unleashes weaponized Stark tech, forcing Tony to confront his failures and the unintended consequences of his innovations. The issue raises questions about accountability and the ethics of technological advancement.

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Issue #23: The Stark Tech War
Source Control escalates their activities, selling Stark tech to rogue nations and criminal organizations. Tony, with Hellcat’s help, stages a series of daring raids to dismantle their network, but the stakes rise when he discovers that one of the buyers is a former ally. This betrayal shakes Tony, pushing him further into his obsession with shutting down Source Control at any cost. Patsy becomes increasingly concerned about Tony’s mental health, fearing he’s falling into old, destructive patterns.

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Issue #24: The Breaking Point
Tony’s relentless pursuit of Source Control brings him face-to-face with their enigmatic leader, who reveals a deep grudge against Stark Industries and Tony himself. This confrontation forces Tony to reckon with the unintended consequences of his legacy, including the harm caused by his inventions falling into the wrong hands. Meanwhile, Hellcat faces her own internal struggles, trying to support Tony while grappling with the toll their mission is taking on her. The issue builds toward a climactic showdown with Source Control’s forces.

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Issue #25: Resolution and Reflection
The arc concludes with Tony and Hellcat dismantling Source Control’s operations and reclaiming the stolen Stark tech. However, the victory comes at a cost: Tony’s obsessive behavior has strained his relationships, particularly with Patsy, who decides to take a step back from their partnership. The issue ends on a reflective note, with Tony acknowledging his flaws and resolving to be better, even as he remains haunted by the responsibilities of his genius and the impact of his actions. The door is left open for future challenges as Tony continues his journey of self-discovery.

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Thematic Exploration

This arc focuses on Tony Stark’s struggle with accountability and the weight of his legacy. It delves into the ethical dilemmas of technological innovation, exploring how even well-intentioned creations can have devastating consequences. Patsy Walker’s role as Tony’s moral compass adds emotional depth, highlighting the importance of relationships and support systems in Tony’s life. The series shifts away from cosmic-scale conflicts to a more grounded and personal narrative, emphasizing Tony’s humanity and the ongoing battle to reconcile his flaws with his desire to do good.

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Hulk (2021) #7-14

 

Issue #9: Welcome to Hulk Planet

Bruce Banner arrives on a distant planet under a gamma sun, discovering a society of Hulk-like beings who revere him as their savior. This "Hulk Planet" is led by Monolith, a powerful and commanding figure who welcomes Banner but quickly challenges his intentions. As Bruce explores this seemingly idyllic world, he learns of the planet's dark history and how it was shaped by gamma radiation. Meanwhile, the Titan—an uncontrollable, destructive persona within Banner—looms, threatening to disrupt the fragile peace.

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Issue #10: A New Gamma Order

Monolith takes Bruce on a tour of Hulk Planet, revealing the society’s advanced infrastructure and how gamma radiation fuels their lives. While the inhabitants thrive in their Hulk-like forms, Bruce struggles to reconcile his role as both their inspiration and a potential threat. Monolith reveals that her people have developed ways to control their rage, but Bruce’s arrival, and the Titan within him, begin to disrupt their equilibrium. The issue ends with a tense confrontation between Banner and Monolith, as trust begins to fracture.

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Issue #11: Seeds of Doubt

Bruce’s presence on Hulk Planet causes division among its inhabitants. Some see him as a messiah, while others fear the destructive potential of his Titan persona. Monolith, skeptical of Bruce’s ability to control himself, challenges him to undergo their society’s rigorous gamma therapy to suppress his inner demons. Bruce reluctantly agrees, but the therapy unlocks unsettling visions of his past and Titan’s growing influence. Meanwhile, back on Earth, those tracking Bruce begin to sense the ripple effects of Hulk Planet's gamma energy, setting up a larger cosmic conflict.

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Issue #12: The Titan Emerges

The gamma therapy backfires spectacularly, triggering the Titan’s emergence. Monolith and the Hulk-like inhabitants band together to subdue the monstrous form, but Titan proves nearly unstoppable, fueled by unrelenting rage and destruction. Bruce’s consciousness is trapped inside Titan, where he struggles to regain control. Monolith sacrifices a significant portion of the planet’s gamma reserves to neutralize Titan, forcing Bruce to face the consequences of his inability to control his darker self. The issue ends on a somber note as the once-idyllic Hulk Planet lies in ruins.

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Issue #13: A Fractured Paradise

With Titan temporarily subdued, Hulk Planet is left in chaos. Monolith confronts Bruce, blaming him for bringing destruction to their sanctuary. Bruce, wracked with guilt, offers to leave the planet, but Monolith demands that he stay and help rebuild what was lost. Meanwhile, the remnants of Titan’s destructive influence linger, threatening to re-emerge at any moment. The issue delves into Bruce’s internal conflict as he grapples with his identity and the recurring cycle of destruction that follows him.

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Issue #14: The Hulk’s Redemption

Bruce and Monolith work together to stabilize Hulk Planet, using their combined knowledge of gamma energy to restore some semblance of order. Bruce makes a breakthrough in understanding Titan’s origins, realizing it represents not just rage but his deepest fears and failures. The issue culminates in a final confrontation with Titan, where Bruce confronts his inner darkness and temporarily suppresses the persona. With the planet on the path to recovery, Bruce bids farewell to Monolith and the Hulk-like inhabitants, vowing to better understand his fractured psyche before causing more harm. The issue ends with Bruce setting off into the cosmos, leaving the future of Hulk Planet in Monolith’s hands.

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Thematic Exploration

This arc delves into Bruce Banner’s eternal struggle with his dual identity, exploring the consequences of his inner turmoil on those around him. Hulk Planet serves as both a mirror and a contrast to Bruce’s experiences on Earth, highlighting the potential for Hulk’s power to be both a blessing and a curse. The emergence of Titan adds a layer of horror and introspection, symbolizing Bruce’s ultimate fear: that his destructive tendencies will always outweigh his desire for peace. The arc ends on a note of cautious optimism, with Bruce taking steps toward understanding and controlling his darker impulses.

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Thor (2020) #25-30

 Thor (2020) #25-30

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Issue #25: A Collision of Realms
This oversized issue serves as a crossover with Hulk and dives into the ramifications of a multiversal crisis as Thor confronts a destructive Hulk, who has been manipulated by external forces. The issue kicks off with Thor investigating a mysterious rift that threatens to destabilize reality. The rift has ties to the recent chaos caused by Banner's "Starship Hulk" experiment. Thor’s responsibilities as both King of Asgard and protector of the Nine Realms are tested when he must decide how to handle the Hulk, whose immense power has become a wildcard in the cosmic balance. The issue features a clash between the two titanic heroes, blending high-stakes action with an exploration of their burdens as god and monster.

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Issue #26: Banner of War (Part IV)
As the Banner of War crossover continues, Thor and Hulk’s battle escalates in both intensity and stakes. Hulk, still influenced by external manipulation, taps into new levels of rage that threaten to overwhelm even Thor’s godly power. Meanwhile, Thor wields Mjolnir with increased ferocity, fueled by his role as the All-Father. The issue delves into the psychological struggles of both characters, with Thor reflecting on his father Odin’s legacy and Hulk battling the voices in his mind. By the end, the battle reaches a catastrophic turning point when the two inadvertently trigger a catastrophic cosmic event, leaving both Asgard and the Nine Realms vulnerable.

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Issue #27: The Thanos Whisper
Following the conclusion of Banner of War, Thor turns his attention to a disturbing prophecy involving Thanos and the Black Infinity Stone. Haunted by visions of Thanos wielding Mjolnir, embedded with the Infinity Stones, Thor seeks answers from the cosmic powers. The issue transitions into a more introspective tone, with Thor confronting his fears about his worthiness and the burdens of leadership. Meanwhile, a growing darkness looms over Asgard as Thor’s preoccupation with Thanos’s return leaves the realm exposed to external threats. Loki, acting as a reluctant advisor, warns Thor of the dangers of chasing prophecy, adding layers of tension to their already fraught relationship.

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Issue #28: Doom’s Gambit
Doctor Doom arrives in Asgard with a bold proposal: an alliance to prevent the prophecy of Thanos from coming true. Doom’s presence ignites conflict among Asgard’s leadership, with Sif and the Warriors Three arguing against trusting him. Thor, however, sees Doom’s knowledge as a potential key to understanding the Black Infinity Stone. The issue explores the uneasy dynamic between Thor and Doom, highlighting their contrasting ideologies. Doom’s manipulative tendencies come to the forefront as he uses the opportunity to further his own agenda. Meanwhile, Loki uncovers clues about the Black Infinity Stone’s origin, hinting at a connection to Asgard’s ancient past.

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Issue #29: The Dark Future
As Thor and Doom delve deeper into the prophecy, they uncover a hidden realm tied to the Black Infinity Stone’s power. The journey takes them through perilous dimensions filled with remnants of forgotten gods and ancient forces that once rivaled Asgard’s power. Thor is forced to confront visions of a dark future where Thanos reigns supreme, wielding Mjolnir as a weapon of cosmic destruction. These visions test Thor’s resolve and further strain his already fragile trust in Doom. Back in Asgard, Loki and Sif work together to prepare the realm for an impending attack, as whispers of a shadowy army loyal to Thanos begin to spread.

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Issue #30: The Eternal Warning
The arc concludes with Thor and Doom narrowly escaping the hidden realm, but not without dire consequences. The Black Infinity Stone’s influence begins to spread, corrupting parts of Asgard and sowing discord among its people. Thor returns to Asgard to rally his forces, only to discover that the prophecy has already set events into motion. The issue ends on a foreboding note as the shadowy forces loyal to Thanos make their move, setting the stage for an even greater cosmic conflict. Thor, now more determined than ever, vows to face whatever comes, but the toll of his responsibilities is visibly weighing on him.

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Thematic Exploration

This arc weaves together themes of prophecy, legacy, and the burdens of leadership. Thor’s struggle with the weight of his father’s legacy and the looming shadow of Thanos highlights his vulnerability as both a god and a king. The uneasy alliance with Doctor Doom brings a layer of political and moral complexity, while the Black Infinity Stone’s connection to Asgard’s past raises questions about the nature of power and its consequences. The arc balances high-stakes cosmic action with introspection, making it a standout chapter in Thor’s journey as the All-Father of Asgard.

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New Mutants (2019) #25-28

 

New Mutants (2019) #25-28

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Issue #25: The Trial of Magik
The arc begins with Illyana Rasputin (Magik) confronting her dual roles as a mutant and the ruler of Limbo. She decides it's time to relinquish her rule over the hellish dimension and transfer her power to someone else, believing that it has taken too great a toll on her soul. The New Mutants rally around her as she sets the terms for a ritual trial to choose Limbo's next ruler. Meanwhile, an unexpected contender for the throne emerges: Madelyne Pryor, the Goblin Queen. Illyana agrees to let Madelyne compete but warns that Limbo cannot fall into the wrong hands. The issue sets the stage for an intense power struggle, as Magik’s decision threatens to unravel the delicate balance between mutantkind and Limbo.

Issue #26: The Contest for Limbo
The trial begins with Illyana, Madelyne, and several unexpected challengers vying for control of Limbo through a series of deadly magical tests. Illyana’s inner demons resurface as the trials force her to relive traumatic memories from her time under Belasco’s rule, testing her resolve to leave Limbo behind. Madelyne, seeking redemption for her villainous past, surprises everyone with her cunning and resourcefulness. Meanwhile, the New Mutants, including Dani Moonstar, Rahne Sinclair (Wolfsbane), and Warpath, face off against Limbo’s chaotic forces as they try to support Illyana from the sidelines. The issue explores themes of redemption and the burden of leadership, with Madelyne and Illyana’s parallels coming into sharp focus.

Issue #27: Demons Within
The stakes escalate as the trials take a darker turn, with Limbo itself reacting violently to Illyana’s potential departure. The dimension’s chaotic nature begins to bleed into reality, threatening Krakoa and the wider world. Illyana struggles to maintain control, torn between her desire for freedom and her responsibility to protect mutantkind. Madelyne, too, faces her own reckoning as she is forced to confront her identity and the consequences of her past actions as the Goblin Queen. A climactic confrontation between Illyana and her dark, younger self serves as a powerful metaphor for self-acceptance. By the end of the issue, Illyana makes a shocking decision about her future, setting the stage for the arc’s conclusion.

Issue #28: The Throne Passed
The arc concludes with Illyana successfully transferring her rule of Limbo to Madelyne Pryor. The ritual is completed in a visually stunning sequence that symbolizes Illyana’s liberation from the chains of her dark past. Madelyne, now the new ruler of Limbo, promises to maintain order and to use her power responsibly, signaling a potential redemption arc for her character. The New Mutants celebrate Illyana’s decision, but the victory is bittersweet, as the group acknowledges the personal sacrifices Illyana has made over the years. The issue ends on a hopeful note, with Illyana embracing her new freedom and the New Mutants reaffirming their bond as a family.

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Thematic Exploration

This arc explores themes of trauma, redemption, and personal growth, with Illyana’s journey taking center stage. Her decision to relinquish Limbo symbolizes her desire to move beyond the darkness of her past and find peace. Madelyne Pryor’s role as the new ruler of Limbo provides a fascinating exploration of second chances, as she strives to reclaim her identity and prove herself. The New Mutants' camaraderie and unwavering support highlight the importance of found family, making this a deeply emotional and character-driven story.

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Fantastic Four (2018) #43-46

Fantastic Four (2018) #43-46

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Issue #43: The Reckoning War Begins

The story picks up amidst the chaos of the Reckoning War, a cosmic conflict that threatens the entire Marvel Universe. The Reckoning, a race of ancient beings wielding the Watchers’ forbidden weapons, launch devastating attacks across the cosmos. Reed Richards, armed with the newly gained knowledge of the Watchers’ history, struggles to balance his newfound cosmic awareness with the mounting pressures of the war. Meanwhile, Ben Grimm, Johnny Storm, and Sue Richards rally Earth’s heroes to protect the planet from Reckoning forces. Reed’s increasing detachment as he processes his cosmic insights creates tension within the team.

Issue #44: The Fall of the Watchers
The Fantastic Four travel to the Watchers’ homeworld, where the Reckoning stage a brutal assault to claim more forbidden technology. Uatu, the Watcher allied with Earth, tries to rally his people, but their pacifistic ways leave them vulnerable. Reed devises a plan to turn the tide using Uatu’s knowledge, but it comes at a cost: pushing his already strained relationships with his family. Johnny, still grappling with the permanent increase in his power levels, faces a major test of his abilities as he battles one of the Reckoning’s champions. Meanwhile, Sue uncovers a hidden secret about the Reckoning’s true purpose, hinting at a deeper connection to the Fantastic Four’s origins.

Issue #45: The Reckoning’s True Intent
Sue’s discovery reveals that the Reckoning aim to rewrite the laws of the cosmos, undoing the Watchers’ millennia-long restrictions on technology. This revelation sends shockwaves through the team, as it ties into Reed’s long-standing guilt over his role in pushing scientific boundaries. Meanwhile, Ben leads a desperate mission to protect Earth, facing overwhelming odds alongside a coalition of alien races. Johnny’s reckless use of his increased powers causes collateral damage, straining his relationships with the team. The issue’s climax sees the Fantastic Four cornered, with the Reckoning poised to enact their ultimate plan.

Issue #46: A New Dawn
In the arc’s dramatic conclusion, Reed and Uatu work together to develop a risky plan to neutralize the Reckoning’s forbidden technology. The plan requires a dangerous gamble: using Reed’s enhanced cosmic awareness to manipulate the fundamental forces of reality. While Reed succeeds in halting the Reckoning’s immediate threat, the effort nearly costs him his sanity. The Reckoning retreat but vow to return, leaving the Fantastic Four to pick up the pieces. The aftermath sees the team grappling with the emotional toll of the war, particularly Johnny, whose recklessness has left him more isolated than ever. Meanwhile, Uatu’s actions hint at a greater reckoning (pun intended) for the Watchers.

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Thematic Exploration

This arc dives into the core themes of responsibility, family, and the consequences of pushing boundaries. Reed’s struggle with the burden of knowledge and the tension it creates within the team reflects his long-standing characterization as a brilliant but flawed leader. The Reckoning serve as a mirror to the Fantastic Four, challenging their ideals and forcing them to confront the cost of their actions. Johnny’s storyline underscores the dangers of unchecked power, while Sue and Ben’s loyalty to their family highlights the emotional heart of the team.

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Amazing Spider-Man (2022) #1-5

Amazing Spider-Man (2022) #1-5

Issue #1: Six Months Later
The series begins with Peter Parker at his lowest point. It’s been six months since a mysterious, cataclysmic event caused Peter to alienate his friends, family, and colleagues. Spider-Man is operating solo, living on the edge, and grappling with his fractured relationships, particularly with Mary Jane, who now appears to have moved on. Meanwhile, the criminal underworld is in chaos as Tombstone, a long-time foe, takes advantage of the power vacuum left by Wilson Fisk’s departure from New York. Tombstone’s ambitions set him on a collision course with Spider-Man, sparking a dangerous new conflict.

Issue #2: Tombstone’s Rise
As Spider-Man investigates Tombstone’s latest operations, he uncovers a plot to consolidate power by weaponizing chaos within the city. Tombstone is using his gang to incite turf wars, destabilizing rival factions. Peter, struggling with his guilt and isolation, takes on the case with a renewed sense of purpose, despite warnings from those still in his orbit. A tense showdown between Spider-Man and Tombstone ends in a trap, with Peter captured and left at the mercy of his increasingly ruthless adversary.

Issue #3: A Web of Deception
Peter finds himself at the mercy of Tombstone, who reveals his plans to turn the city’s perception of Spider-Man against him. Tombstone stages a violent attack using imposters to frame Spider-Man as a dangerous vigilante, further straining Peter’s already fragile reputation. Meanwhile, Mary Jane’s mysterious new life comes into sharper focus, and her involvement with an enigmatic figure raises questions about what really happened six months ago. Peter escapes Tombstone’s clutches but is left shaken by how personal and calculated his enemy’s moves have become.

Issue #4: Fighting Back
Determined to clear his name and stop Tombstone’s scheme, Spider-Man launches a counteroffensive. Using his resourcefulness and knowledge of the criminal underworld, Peter turns the tables on Tombstone, dismantling parts of his operation while narrowly avoiding further traps. The issue highlights Peter’s resilience and intellect, even as he grapples with the loneliness of his current situation. In a parallel subplot, Norman Osborn reappears, offering Peter unexpected help, hinting at a potential uneasy alliance. The seeds of larger conspiracies are planted, adding tension to the narrative.

Issue #5: The Cost of War
The arc concludes with a brutal final confrontation between Spider-Man and Tombstone. Peter, pushed to his limits, uses his understanding of Tombstone’s psychology to exploit his weaknesses and end the gang war. However, the victory is bittersweet: while Spider-Man thwarts Tombstone’s immediate plans, the villain walks away unscathed, confident that his manipulation of the system will keep him untouchable. The issue ends with Peter reflecting on the growing challenges of balancing his responsibilities as Spider-Man with the personal cost of his choices. Meanwhile, a cryptic tease involving Mary Jane and Norman Osborn sets the stage for future conflicts.

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Thematic Exploration
This opening arc dives deep into the cost of Peter’s double life, emphasizing themes of alienation, responsibility, and resilience. Tombstone’s calculated and psychological approach as a villain challenges Spider-Man in new ways, forcing Peter to rely on his intellect and resourcefulness rather than brute strength. The lingering mystery of the six-month gap adds a layer of intrigue, promising future revelations that will reshape Peter’s relationships and sense of identity. With its mix of personal stakes, intense action, and a grounded exploration of Peter’s struggles, Amazing Spider-Man (2022) begins its run with a compelling, character-driven arc.

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Wolverine (2020) #20-25

 

Wolverine (2020) #20-25

Issue #20: Deadpool’s Disruption
The story kicks off with Wolverine on a mission to investigate a black market trafficking in Krakoan technology. However, his operation is derailed when Deadpool arrives uninvited, claiming to have vital intel on the smugglers. Despite Wolverine's reluctance, Deadpool tags along, bringing chaos and comedic mayhem. The investigation leads to Madripoor, where the duo uncovers a shadowy organization selling Krakoan technology to the highest bidder. Their discovery sets the stage for a larger confrontation, as Wolverine struggles to rein in Deadpool’s unpredictable antics.

Issue #21: The Auction Block
Wolverine and Deadpool infiltrate a high-stakes auction in Madripoor, where various criminal factions bid on stolen Krakoan technology. As the auction escalates, the two heroes clash over their differing approaches: Wolverine prefers stealth and precision, while Deadpool’s reckless humor and explosive tactics draw unwanted attention. The auction culminates in a violent showdown when a mysterious new villain, The Merchant, reveals their plans to use the stolen technology for a global black market empire. The issue ends with Wolverine and Deadpool barely escaping, but not without drawing the ire of Madripoor’s criminal elite.

Issue #22: An Unlikely Partnership
With tensions running high, Wolverine reluctantly agrees to continue working with Deadpool after realizing the Merc with a Mouth’s unconventional methods have uncovered leads he would have missed. The pair follows a trail that takes them to a hidden Madripoor lab, where they confront The Merchant’s hired muscle—enhanced mercenaries equipped with weaponized Krakoan tech. During the battle, Wolverine begins to suspect there’s more to The Merchant’s operation than just profit, hinting at a deeper conspiracy targeting Krakoa itself.

Issue #23: The Merchant’s Gambit
The Merchant escalates their campaign by launching a public attack on a Krakoan outpost, framing Wolverine and Deadpool for the destruction. This forces the two to go underground, dodging both Krakoan and Madripoor authorities while trying to clear their names. As Wolverine digs deeper into The Merchant’s operation, he discovers a disturbing connection to an anti-mutant extremist group funding the black market. Deadpool, despite his comedic persona, reveals unexpected depth by using his mercenary contacts to gather intel, proving himself a surprisingly valuable ally.

Issue #24: The Cost of Loyalty
Wolverine and Deadpool track The Merchant to a fortified facility where the stolen technology is being mass-produced. The infiltration mission tests their uneasy partnership, as Wolverine’s no-nonsense approach clashes with Deadpool’s chaotic but effective methods. The battle against The Merchant’s forces pushes Wolverine to his limits, and he begins to question whether Krakoa’s open borders and shared technology policies have made them too vulnerable to exploitation. The issue ends with a climactic encounter between Wolverine and The Merchant, where the villain reveals a personal vendetta against Krakoa tied to its political rise.

Issue #25: A Bloody Resolution
The arc concludes with an explosive showdown at The Merchant’s facility. Wolverine and Deadpool, finally working in sync, dismantle the operation and recover the stolen technology. However, The Merchant escapes, vowing revenge and leaving behind cryptic hints about larger threats to Krakoa. The aftermath sees Wolverine reflecting on his uneasy alliance with Deadpool and the moral compromises required to protect Krakoa. Deadpool, in a rare moment of sincerity, acknowledges his respect for Wolverine, hinting that their partnership might not be as temporary as Wolverine would like.

Thematic Exploration
This arc blends high-octane action with humor and moral complexity, exploring the consequences of Krakoa’s policies in a world where mutant technology is both a blessing and a target. Wolverine’s gruff seriousness contrasts sharply with Deadpool’s irreverence, creating a dynamic partnership that highlights their differences while proving their effectiveness together. Themes of trust, loyalty, and the price of progress are woven throughout, making this a story that is as introspective as it is entertaining. Wolverine (2020) continues to showcase the character’s depth and adaptability in a rapidly changing world.

Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty (2022) #1-6

Issue #1: The Shield’s True Purpose

Steve Rogers returns to the streets of Brooklyn, seeking a quieter life after the chaos of recent events. However, his attempt to reconnect with his roots is interrupted when he discovers a mysterious conspiracy tied to his iconic shield. Steve learns that the star at the center of his shield has been a symbol of control used by a secret organization called the Outer Circle. This revelation shakes his understanding of his role as Captain America and sets him on a mission to uncover the truth behind the Outer Circle’s shadowy influence on the world.

Issue #2: A New Mission
Steve begins his investigation by reaching out to allies like Bucky Barnes (The Winter Soldier) and Sharon Carter, who help him trace the origins of the Outer Circle. The search takes him to unexpected places, including hidden archives and dangerous confrontations with agents of the mysterious group. Along the way, Steve encounters a new enemy, The Revolution, a deadly operative who challenges Steve’s ideals and forces him to question his place in a world increasingly shaped by manipulation and deceit.

Issue #3: The Outer Circle Revealed
Steve learns more about the structure of the Outer Circle, a cabal of five powerful figures—The Revolution, The Machine, The Power, The Love, and The Money—who have been pulling the strings behind global events for decades. As Steve uncovers their influence on wars, politics, and economies, he realizes the depth of their control and their connection to the creation of the shield itself. This revelation strengthens his resolve to dismantle the Outer Circle but also exposes him to greater danger as the group begins to view him as a direct threat.

Issue #4: Allies and Adversaries
Steve’s quest for answers leads him to team up with unlikely allies, including a group of ordinary citizens determined to resist the Outer Circle’s control. Meanwhile, his growing conflict with The Revolution intensifies, culminating in a brutal fight that leaves Steve questioning whether he can win this battle without compromising his principles. Bucky, acting on his own leads, uncovers a shocking betrayal within their ranks, hinting at a deeper layer to the conspiracy.

Issue #5: The Machine’s Gambit
As Steve and his allies close in on the Outer Circle, The Machine, a mastermind of strategy and manipulation, begins to turn the tide against them. Using advanced technology and psychological warfare, The Machine creates chaos that threatens to undermine Steve’s credibility and the trust he’s built with his allies. The issue’s climax sees Steve face a personal crisis as he’s forced to choose between pursuing the Outer Circle or saving innocent lives caught in their web.

Issue #6: A Fractured Trust
The arc reaches its climax as Steve confronts the Outer Circle in a daring raid on one of their strongholds. However, the encounter reveals the group’s ultimate plan: to use Captain America’s legacy as a tool for their agenda. Bucky’s role in the conspiracy comes to light, exposing a rift between the two friends that could change their relationship forever. The issue ends on a cliffhanger, with Steve vowing to dismantle the Outer Circle piece by piece, even as the cost to his personal relationships and ideals continues to mount.

Thematic Exploration
This arc examines the intersection of legacy, freedom, and control, challenging Steve’s understanding of the ideals he has long stood for. The revelation of the Outer Circle’s influence forces him to confront the ways symbols can be co-opted for nefarious purposes, adding a layer of complexity to his role as Captain America. Themes of trust, loyalty, and resistance against systemic oppression are woven throughout, creating a story that feels both timely and deeply personal. With its mix of action, intrigue, and emotional stakes, Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty reinvigorates the Sentinel of Liberty’s mission for a new generation.

I liked where they're going here. 7/10.

Miles Morales: Spider-Man (2018) #37-42

 

Miles Morales: Spider-Man (2018) #37-42

Issue #37: The Multiversal Chaos Begins
The story kicks off with Miles Morales continuing to grapple with his dual responsibilities as a student and Spider-Man. However, his world is turned upside down when he encounters an alternate version of himself, known as Shift—a hulking, monstrous clone who has escaped from a secret laboratory. Shift warns Miles of a looming multiversal threat tied to the Beyond Corporation. The two are forced to team up when agents from Beyond attack, forcing Miles to confront his growing unease about the multiverse’s fragility and the consequences of his previous dimension-hopping adventures.

Issue #38: Enter the Spider-Verse (Again)
After receiving a cryptic warning from Shift, Miles seeks help from Ganke and Starling to investigate the Beyond Corporation’s growing interest in alternate realities. Their search leads them to a hidden portal, which transports Miles and Shift into a fractured dimension. There, Miles encounters alternate versions of himself, including a war-hardened, older Spider-Man and a teenage, unpowered Miles trying to survive a dystopian reality. Each version of Miles reveals the devastating effects of tampering with the multiverse, fueling his determination to stop Beyond’s interference.

Issue #39: The Clone’s Redemption
Shift’s backstory takes center stage as Miles learns more about his clone’s tragic origins and the experiments that created him. Despite his monstrous appearance, Shift proves to be an invaluable ally, displaying loyalty and courage that challenge Miles’s initial misgivings about him. Meanwhile, Beyond’s operatives, led by the ruthless Quantum, continue their pursuit of Miles and Shift, escalating the danger. The issue’s emotional core centers on Miles’s evolving relationship with Shift, as they bond over shared trauma and their desire to forge their own destinies.

Issue #40: The Beyond Conspiracy
Miles uncovers evidence of Beyond’s plan to harness the multiverse for profit and control, putting countless realities at risk. To stop them, Miles and Shift infiltrate a Beyond facility, only to encounter a formidable foe: Selim, another Miles clone who has fully embraced his role as an enforcer for Beyond. The clash between Miles and Selim is both physical and ideological, as Selim accuses Miles of failing to live up to his potential. The confrontation ends with Miles barely escaping, but the experience leaves him questioning his purpose and place in the multiverse.

Issue #41: Into the Heart of the Multiverse
Determined to stop Beyond once and for all, Miles and Shift rally their alternate-dimension allies for a final assault on the corporation’s main facility. The mission pushes Miles to his limits as he faces Selim again, this time in a high-stakes battle that threatens to collapse the multiverse itself. Shift’s heroism shines as he sacrifices himself to protect Miles and the integrity of the multiverse. The emotional loss cements Shift as a true hero in Miles’s eyes, and the victory against Beyond feels bittersweet.

Issue #42: Aftermath and Reflection
The arc concludes with Miles returning to his home dimension, forever changed by his experiences. He grapples with the loss of Shift and the heavy burden of protecting not just his city but the multiverse itself. Starling and Ganke help him process his grief, reminding him of the importance of his humanity and connections to others. Meanwhile, Beyond’s remnants hint at future threats, leaving Miles on edge about what’s to come. The issue ends with a quiet but hopeful moment as Miles rededicates himself to being Spider-Man, inspired by Shift’s memory to keep fighting for what’s right.

Thematic Exploration
This arc explores themes of identity, responsibility, and the consequences of power. Miles’s interactions with his clones and alternate selves highlight the complexity of his role as Spider-Man, challenging him to embrace his individuality while recognizing the broader impact of his actions. The arc also emphasizes the importance of found family and the sacrifices required to protect those you love. With its blend of action, emotional depth, and multiversal intrigue, Miles Morales: Spider-Man continues to showcase the unique strengths of its titular hero.