While Deniz Camp and Juan Frigeri's The Ultimates claimed our top spot as 2024's Best Comic Book Series or Original Graphic Novel, Marvel's Fantastic Four came incredibly close to stealing the crown. Under Ryan North's writing, the series has reached heights unseen in years. With The Fantastic Four: First Steps movie approaching, Marvel aims to draw even more fans this summer.

Marvel will relaunch Fantastic Four this July, but rest assured – North remains at the helm. Teaming with artist Humberto Ramos (The Amazing Spider-Man), he'll chart fresh adventures for Marvel's First Family as they grapple with the aftermath of the One World Under Doom crossover while being hurled through time.

To learn more about this accessible new chapter for readers, IGN connected with North via email. Below, explore an exclusive preview gallery of the debut issue before discovering how this volume portrays the FF not just as relatives, but as chosen family.

EXCLUSIVE: First Look at Fantastic Four #1

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Although Marvel frequently renumbers titles, this reset serves a clear purpose alongside the upcoming film. North emphasizes how a new #1 issue removes barriers for moviegoers wanting to explore the comics.

"Comics have this incredible opportunity to grow their audience," North tells IGN. "Millions assume superhero books aren't for them – they're missing out! By offering a fresh starting point, we're inviting newcomers who loved the film to discover these characters on the page without worrying about decades of continuity."

The most significant change involves Ramos joining as series artist. North reveals their collaboration began long before the relaunch: "We met at San Diego Comic-Con years ago, discussing what makes these characters special. Humberto's dynamic style and creative input make every page electrifying – it's been torture keeping these pages secret!"

Ramos' renowned speed allows North to craft scripts tailored to his partner's strengths. "Writing for a specific artist lets us merge our visions more effectively," North explains. "Knowing Humberto would illustrate multiple issues helped shape bigger, more cohesive storytelling."

Though maintaining his signature standalone-issue approach, North acknowledges dialing up the larger narrative: "Think of it like Ben Grimm's cooking – the recipe works great, but why not throw in some extra garlic? Each issue remains self-contained, yet collectively they're building toward something epic."

Initially teased as exploring the FF's friendship dynamic, North clarifies how chosen bonds define the team: "Sue and Johnny share blood, but all four consciously choose this family daily. That voluntary commitment between friends mirrors the deepest kinship – that's the heart we're celebrating."

The relaunch directly follows One World Under Doom, with North weaving the event's fallout into a major Doctor Doom storyline. "We're balancing accessibility with honoring current continuity," he explains. "Our opening arc features the FF cleaning up Doom's mess through wild scientific innovation – then we accelerate into even grander adventures."

A key plot point – Doom "curing" Ben Grimm – will resolve before the relaunch. "We're tying up loose ends so new readers can dive in immediately," North confirms. "Decades of history shouldn't feel intimidating. Every issue should welcome newcomers while rewarding longtime fans."

Fantastic Four #1 hits stores July 9, preceding the film by weeks. Below, check out details for August's follow-up issue:

FANTASTIC FOUR #2

Written by RYAN NORTH

Art and Cover by HUMBERTO RAMOS

Sue Storm, stranded at Earth's dying moments, struggles to survive as the planet's last living being. Meanwhile, Reed Richards waits helplessly in the distant past for a rescue that may never come – unless their profound connection can somehow transcend time itself...

Back in the present, Doctor Doom unveils the secret behind his invincibility: a tactical advantage that turns every defeat into victory, securing his rule as Earth's undisputed Emperor!

On Sale 8/13

Additionally, Marvel will release an MCU-connected prequel comic exploring Pedro Pascal's Reed Richards and his family's origins – a rare direct tie-in to the cinematic universe.