The X-Men, one of the most iconic superhero teams in comic book history, are celebrating their 60th anniversary in 2023. Marvel Comics is honoring this milestone by bringing back the original lineup of Cyclops, Jean Grey, Iceman, Angel, and Beast, who first appeared in X-Men #1 in 1963. But this is not a simple nostalgia trip. The original X-Men are being pulled through time by the Phoenix Force, an omnipotent cosmic entity, to embark on a mission of cosmic significance.
The Phoenix Force Chooses the Original X-Men for a Multiversal Mission
The Phoenix Force, a being of immeasurable power and significance in the Marvel Universe, has selected the original X-Men for a mission that spans not just space but the entire Multiverse itself. The Phoenix Force has detected a threat to existence that only the original X-Men can stop. But why them? What makes them special? And what will they face in their journey across the Multiverse?
The Original X-Men Face Their Older Selves in a Battle of Ideals
The original X-Men are not strangers to time travel. In 2013, they were plucked from the past and transported to the future by the adult version of Beast, who hoped that they could change the course of history and prevent Cyclops from going rogue. This intriguing storyline unfolded in Brian Michael Bendis’ widely acclaimed series, “All-New X-Men.” After their eye-opening adventure, these young mutants were sent back to their original timeline, their memories conveniently wiped clean.
But now, they are back in the future, and their memories are restored. The Phoenix Force has summoned them to help save the Multiverse from a mysterious menace. But there is a catch. In their cosmic odyssey, they may come face to face with their older, more battle-hardened selves. These older versions of themselves have made compromises and hard choices along the way. They may not agree with their younger selves’ idealism and optimism. They may even see them as enemies.
The original X-Men must grapple with the dilemma of either persuading their older selves to alter their paths or finding a way to thwart them. It’s a battle of ideals and experience, with the fate of the Multiverse hanging in the balance.
The Original X-Men #1 Sets Up Major Stories to Come
The Original X-Men #1 is an oversized one-shot comic that will be released on December 20. It is written by Christos Gage, who has previously worked on X-Men Legacy and other Marvel titles. It is illustrated by Greg Land, who has drawn Uncanny X-Men and other Marvel titles. It features a captivating cover by Ryan Stegman, who has drawn Wolverine and other Marvel titles.
This comic is not only a tribute to the 60th anniversary of the X-Men but also a setup for major stories to come. One of the original X-Men will not make it back to their own time by the end of this story. What will happen to them? How will they affect the future? And what other surprises await them in their time-traveling adventure? These questions will be explored in future stories that will shake up the Marvel Universe.
The Original X-Men #1 is a must-read for any fan of the X-Men and Marvel Comics. It is a thrilling and emotional story that honors the legacy of these beloved characters while also taking them to new heights.
