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 massive 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 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). Marvel's synopsis teases a clash: "Bucky, Songbird, Sharon Carter, and the Midnight Angels target Doom's vibranium supply, only to face… THE THUNDERBOLTS?! THUNDERBOLTS VS. THUNDERBOLTS!"
The slideshow below showcases the preview. 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. Their victories, however, inadvertently paved the path for Doom's ascension.
Lanzing explains, "Bucky neutralized the Red Skull, Kingpin's finances, and the American Kaiju. This destabilized Hydra, the criminal underworld, and US defenses—actions intended to improve the world. Ironically, he empowered Victor Von Doom, used as a tool to eliminate the Red Skull. One doesn't weaponize Victor Von Doom without consequences."
Kelly reveals that "Worldstrike," their initial "Thunderbolts" arc, was always meant to lead to a Doom-focused sequel. North's company-wide Doom crossover was a fortuitous alignment.
Kelly states, "Planning the sequel, we learned about 'One World Under Doom,' spearheaded by Ryan North. Bucky's manipulation of Doom was a key event in Victor's rise. This mission became a judgment on Bucky's choices. 'Doomstrike' is Bucky's chance at redemption, but it will push him to his limits."
Bucky's guilt over Doom's rise is central to "Doomstrike." Kelly notes that guilt has been a constant in Bucky's narrative since his resurrection as the Winter Soldier.
Kelly adds, "Bucky's guilt, from his Winter Soldier days or Outer Circle missions, has weighed him down. Just when he thought he could move on, he's burdened with causing Doom's rise. Doom understands this and will exploit his guilt. After the first issue, that burden will intensify, and Bucky might not be able to withstand it."
Lanzing describes the diverse motivations of the other Thunderbolts: 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 of Bucky's, re-enters the fray. Additional 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 major element of "Doomstrike" is the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts, mostly siding with Doom, while Songbird supports Bucky. A conflict between the two teams is inevitable.
Kelly says, "We're excited to reunite the original Thunderbolts with 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 adds, "Doom, not Bucky, is using the Thunderbolts name. In Doom's world, heroes are under his control, his 'Fulgar Victoris.' Why are they organizing? And why is Bucky the primary target?"
Songbird's position is crucial, torn between loyalty to her old and new teams.
Kelly notes, "Melissa returns ready to help Bucky. But her history with the other Thunderbolts, serving Doom, will deeply affect her. The Thunderbolts are her world, so this will shake her profoundly."
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 in 'Devil's Reign: Winter Soldier,' exploding in 'Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty,' driving 'Captain America: Cold War,' and culminating in 'Thunderbolts: Worldstrike.' Bucky uncovered his origins, clashed with his friend, found love, and became the Revolution. It all comes down to this. Fans of our previous work shouldn't miss this. It's the grand finale, and we're giving it our all."
"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" coincides with the May release of the "Thunderbolts" film. Kelly and Lanzing aim to attract MCU viewers.
Kelly states, "Absolutely. MCU Bucky fans will find our Bucky familiar, at least initially. While details differ, this story shows why Contessa is a threat. For Bucky/Natasha fans, their romance is central. With Doom's upcoming MCU appearance, this story and 'One World Under Doom' are a terrifying introduction to a great villain. We hope that when movie fans seek more, 'Thunderbolts: Worldstrike' and 'Doomstrike' will draw them into Marvel comics."
Which new comic are you most excited to read in 2025? (Poll)
"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #1 releases February 19, 2025. For more on the future of the Marvel Universe, see what to expect in 2025 and read about our most anticipated comics of 2025.
