2025: Doom's Reign and the Thunderbolts' Reckoning

The Marvel Universe in 2025 is defined by one name: Doctor Doom. Launching in February, "One World Under Doom" sees Doom, the new Sorcerer Supreme, claim global dominion. This monumental crossover event, spearheaded by Ryan North and R.B. Silva, unfolds across multiple titles, with "Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" – penned by Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing, illustrated by Tommaso Bianchi – serving as a crucial component.

IGN presents an exclusive preview of "Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #3 (April release), teasing 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. Further details from Kelly and Lanzing reveal this series' significance as the culmination of a long-running Bucky Barnes storyline.

Thunderbolts: Doomstrike #3 Exclusive Preview Gallery

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Bucky Barnes: Architect of Doom's Ascension?

"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" builds upon Kelly and Lanzing's 2023 "Thunderbolts" relaunch. Bucky Barnes leads a team tasked with neutralizing major villains, employing any necessary means. Their successes against Hydra and the Kingpin, however, inadvertently paved the path for Doom's rise.

Lanzing explains, "Bucky eliminated the Red Skull, crippled the Kingpin's finances, and destabilized the US government. This was meant to foster a safer world, inspiring positive change. Instead, it inspired Victor Von Doom, whom Bucky used as a tool."

Kelly reveals that a Doom-centric storyline was always planned. North's company-wide Doom crossover was a fortunate alignment. "Doomstrike" becomes a referendum on Bucky's actions, offering a chance for redemption, but at a tremendous cost.

Bucky's guilt, a recurring theme since his Winter Soldier days, intensifies. Kelly states, "His guilt, from Winter Soldier actions or Outer Circle missions, constantly weighs on him. Just as he finds respite, he's burdened with responsibility for Doom's rise. Doom will exploit this guilt."

The Thunderbolts' diverse motivations are highlighted by Lanzing: Songbird acts out of loyalty and heroism, yet her grief over Abner Jenkins influences her actions. Black Widow prioritizes Bucky's safety, while Sharon Carter confronts fascism. U.S. Agent is disillusioned, and Ghost Rider '44, an old friend, re-enters the fray. The remaining members remain a surprise.

Regarding Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, Kelly teases, "That's a complex question; read issue #1!"

Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts: A Civil War

"Doomstrike" features the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts, many now aligned with Doom. The clash between Bucky's team and Doom's is inevitable.

Kelly emphasizes the reunion of the original Thunderbolts, exploring the possibility of redemption for villains. Lanzing reveals that Doom, not Bucky, controls this iteration of the Thunderbolts, highlighting the manipulation within Doom's regime.

Songbird's conflict is central, torn between loyalty to old friends and commitment to Bucky. Kelly describes her return as enthusiastic, but her past relationships will test her.

This series marks the culmination of Kelly and Lanzing's multi-year Bucky Barnes narrative, encompassing "Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty" and "Captain America: Cold War."

Lanzing confirms, "This is our final Bucky Barnes story for now. It's the finale of our 'Revolution Saga,' encompassing past works. Bucky's journey, from discovering his origins to finding love, culminates here. Fans of our previous works shouldn't miss this."

The creators express hope that "Doomstrike," along with "Worldstrike," will attract MCU viewers, particularly given the thematic similarities and the upcoming "Thunderbolts" film.

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