Just when I thought I was out... Robert Downey Jr. and the Russo brothers are pulling me back in! If Marvel is to be believed, Doom's conquest will be more of an era, like Dark Reign, rather than a fleeting "event" (think last year's Blood Hunt). This means that throughout most of 2025, the Marvel universe will continue to unfold, but with Dr. Doom firmly established as the World Emperor, Sorcerer Supreme, and the head of the table at the Superior Avengers.
As you might expect, the Superior Avengers will feature villains, but with a twist. Familiar names will adorn new characters:
- Abomination: Kristoff, Doom's adopted son and Reed Richards' half-brother, will take on this role.
- Dr. Octopus: Not Caroline Trainer (Lady Octopus), but another woman will wield these tentacles.
- Ghost: A nameless woman from the Ant-Man series will step into this role.
- Killmonger: A new interpretation of this character will emerge.
- Malekith: The Black Elves will remain on Earth, with Malekith leading them.
- Onslaught: This powerful entity will also join the ranks.
The Superior Avengers series will consist of 6 issues, penned by Steve Fox (known for X-Men '92: House of XCII, Dark X-Men, Dead X-Men, and Spider-Woman) and illustrated by Luca Maresca (X-Men: Forever, Children of the Vault). The series is set to launch in April.
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The concept isn't entirely new. For instance, during the Dark Avengers era in 2009, Norman Osborn replaced the Avengers with a team of sub-villains, including Iron Patriot, Scorpion (posing as Spider-Man), Moonstone (as Ms. Marvel), Swordsman (as Hawkeye), Daken (as Wolverine), Sentry, Marvel Boy, and Ares. Similarly, in the Secret Empire event, Hydra formed its Avengers team with the unworthy Thor, Vision (controlled by Arnim Zola), Scarlet Witch (under Chthon's control), Deadpool, Superior Octopus, Taskmaster, and Black Ant.
But how did Dr. Doom manage to ascend to such heights? Let's explore the stepping stones that led to "One World Under Doom" to keep you informed.
Table of Contents:
- Emperor Doom
- President Doom 2099
- Secret Wars
- Blood Hunt
Emperor Doom
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While the 1987 graphic novel by David Michelini and Bob Hall, Emperor Doom, might come to mind, it's not essential reading. However, Doom's theft of the Silver Surfer's cosmic power in Fantastic Four #57 marks an early instance of his global ambitions. Emperor Doom best encapsulates the concept of a world ruled by Doom, with its straightforward and powerful premise.
President Doom 2099
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In the Doom 2099 series by Warren Ellis and Pat Broderick, the futuristic Doom nearly conquers America. With iconic lines like "America is the greatest threat to the planet" and "I'll save the world by protecting America," this series stands as a highlight of Marvel 2099 and showcases Doom's grandest exploits.
Secret Wars
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When discussing Doom's greatest conquests, one cannot overlook his role as God-Emperor in Secret Wars (2015). From Jonathan Hickman's The Avengers to the events of Secret Wars, Doom's pursuit of immortality and power for the sake of good governance is on full display. His actions, such as marrying Sue Storm, transforming Johnny Storm into Sunshine, and establishing Ben Grimm as the Wall, are driven by his own unresolved grievances. This story is a fascinating exploration of what Doom would do with the power of a god.
Blood Hunt
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The most significant continuity element leading to One World Under Doom is the Vampire Invasion 2024 event by Jed McKay and Pepe Larraz. As vampirism fueled by the Darkhold threatens the world, Doctor Strange turns to Dr. Doom for help. Doom insists that he must be granted the mantle of Sorcerer Supreme to wield the necessary magic. Surprisingly, Dr. Strange agrees, and Doom retains his Sorcerer Supreme powers, setting the stage for his rise.
As we await further developments from Robert Downey Jr. and the Russo brothers in February, let's delve into a world ruled by none other than Dr. Doom himself.