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, declares 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 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 synopsis hints at a thrilling conflict: Bucky, Songbird, Sharon Carter, and the Midnight Angels target Doom's vibranium supply, only to face off against… the Thunderbolts!
Is Bucky Barnes Responsible for Emperor Doom?
"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" builds upon Kelly and Lanzing's 2023 "Thunderbolts" relaunch. Bucky Barnes leads a team tasked with confronting major villains, employing any necessary means. Their successes 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 everything, unintentionally empowering Doom, whom Bucky used as a tool."
Kelly reveals that "Worldstrike," their initial "Thunderbolts" arc, was always planned to lead to a Doom-focused sequel. The "One World Under Doom" crossover event, orchestrated by Ryan North, provided the perfect backdrop. "Doomstrike" becomes a referendum on Bucky's choices, offering him a chance at redemption, but at a tremendous cost.
Bucky's guilt, stemming from his past as the Winter Soldier and his actions, will be central to "Doomstrike." Kelly notes that Doom will weaponize this guilt.
Lanzing details the varied motivations of the Thunderbolts: Songbird, driven by loyalty and a desire for heroism; Black Widow, prioritizing Bucky's safety; Sharon Carter, combating fascism; U.S. Agent, disillusioned by his country's submission; and Ghost Rider '44, a re-ignited old friend of Bucky.
Regarding Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, Kelly teases, "That's a more complex question; read issue #1 to find out."
Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts
"Doomstrike" features the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts, many now aligned with Doom. A clash between Bucky's team and Doom's is inevitable.
Kelly highlights the return of the original Thunderbolts, exploring their redemption potential. Lanzing reveals that Doom, not Bucky, is manipulating the Thunderbolts' name, using them as his "Fulgar Victoris."
Songbird's internal conflict, torn between loyalty to her former teammates and Bucky, will be a key element.
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 calls it the "Revolution Saga's" grand finale.
The creators express hope that "Doomstrike," along with "Worldstrike," will attract MCU viewers, particularly those familiar with Bucky and Natasha's relationship, and provide a compelling introduction to Doctor Doom.
"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #1 releases February 19, 2025.
