2025: A Marvel Universe Under Doom's Reign

The Marvel Universe in 2025 is defined by one word: "Doom." February marks the beginning 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 crucial tie-in is "Thunderbolts: Doomstrike," penned by Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing, with art by Tommaso Bianchi.

IGN presents an exclusive preview of "Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #3 (April release). Marvel's solicitation hints at a thrilling conflict: "Bucky, Songbird, Sharon Carter, and the Midnight Angels devise a daring plan to target Doom's vibranium supply. But they face an unexpected obstacle – THE THUNDERBOLTS?! It's THUNDERBOLTS VS. THUNDERBOLTS!"

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 success against Hydra and the Kingpin inadvertently paves the path for Doom's ascension.

Lanzing explains, "Bucky eliminated the Red Skull, crippled Kingpin's finances, and destabilized the US government. This was meant to create a safer world, but it also empowered Victor Von Doom, whom Bucky used as a tool."

Kelly reveals that "Worldstrike," their initial "Thunderbolts" arc, was always intended to lead to a Doom-focused storyline. The "One World Under Doom" crossover event, orchestrated by Ryan North, proved a fortuitous development.

Kelly states, "Doomstrike is Bucky's opportunity for redemption, but it will push him to his limits." Bucky's guilt will be central to the narrative. Kelly notes that guilt has been a constant in Bucky's life since his resurrection as the Winter Soldier. Doom will exploit this vulnerability.

Lanzing describes the diverse 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 subjugation; and Ghost Rider '44, a long-time friend of Bucky.

Regarding Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, Kelly teases, "Readers will have to discover her role in issue #1."

Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts: A Clash of Eras

"Doomstrike" features the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts, many of whom now serve Doom. A conflict between Bucky's team and Doom's loyalists is inevitable.

Kelly highlights the return of the original Thunderbolts, exploring the theme of redemption. Lanzing explains that Doom, not Bucky, controls the Thunderbolts in his regime. Songbird's loyalty is tested, caught between her past and present allegiances.

Kelly and Lanzing have worked extensively with Bucky, including in "Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty" and "Captain America: Cold War." "Doomstrike" serves as the culmination of their Bucky Barnes storyline. Lanzing calls it the "Revolution Saga's" grand finale.

Connecting Comics to the MCU

Kelly and Lanzing express their hope that "Doomstrike" will attract MCU viewers, given the similarities in team composition and the upcoming "Thunderbolts" film. They believe the story will resonate with fans of MCU Bucky, Natasha, and Doom.

Which 2025 Comic Are You Most Excited For?

[Poll: Options include One World Under Doom, Batman: Hush 2, etc.]

"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #1 releases February 19, 2025.