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 major crossover event. Doctor Doom, the newly crowned Sorcerer Supreme, declares himself Emperor of the World. This narrative unfolds in the "One World Under Doom" miniseries by Ryan North and R.B. Silva, alongside numerous tie-in titles. A key 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). The synopsis hints at a thrilling conflict: Bucky, Songbird, Sharon Carter, and the Midnight Angels devise a daring plan to target Doom's vibranium supply, only to face off against…the Thunderbolts!

Thunderbolts: Doomstrike #3 Exclusive Preview Gallery

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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 pave the way for Doom's ascension.

Lanzing explains, "Bucky eliminated the Red Skull, crippled the Kingpin's finances, and weakened US government defenses. This was meant to improve global safety, but it also emboldened Victor Von Doom, whom Bucky used as a pawn. Using Doom as a weapon is a mistake one doesn't easily forget."

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

Kelly states, "Discovering that Bucky's actions were a catalyst for Doom's rise transformed the mission into a referendum on Bucky's choices. 'Doomstrike' offers Bucky a chance at redemption, but it will be his most challenging endeavor yet."

Bucky's guilt over his role in Doom's rise is central to "Doomstrike." Kelly notes that guilt has been a constant in Bucky's life since his resurrection as the Winter Soldier.

Kelly elaborates, "Bucky's guilt, stemming from his Winter Soldier past and Outer Circle missions, has weighed heavily on him. Just when he thought he could move on, he's burdened with the responsibility of Doom's rise. Doom is aware of this and will exploit his guilt."

Lanzing adds insight into the motivations of the other Thunderbolts: Songbird, driven by loyalty and a desire for heroism; Black Widow, primarily concerned for Bucky's well-being; Sharon Carter, combating fascism; U.S. Agent, disillusioned by his country's submission; and Ghost Rider '44, a long-time friend of Bucky.

Regarding Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, Kelly teases, "Val's role is more complex and will be revealed in issue #1."

Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts

A key element of "Doomstrike" is the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts lineup, many of whom now side with Emperor Doom. The conflict between Bucky's team and the original Thunderbolts is a major plot point.

Kelly highlights the return of the original Thunderbolts, stating, "It's an honor to revisit these characters and their core dilemma: is redemption possible for villains?"

Lanzing explains that Doom, not Bucky, is utilizing the Thunderbolts name. These are not self-organized heroes but individuals under Doom's control.

Songbird's predicament is crucial. Torn between loyalty to her former teammates and her commitment to Bucky, her internal conflict will significantly impact the narrative.

Kelly describes Songbird's return, stating, "Melissa returns ready to assist Bucky, but her history with the other Thunderbolts, now serving Doom, will deeply affect her. The Thunderbolts are her world, and dealing with this situation will profoundly shake her."

"Doomstrike" serves as the culmination of Kelly and Lanzing's years-long Bucky Barnes storyline, encompassing their work on "Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty" and "Captain America: Cold War."

Lanzing reveals, "This is our final Bucky Barnes story for now. It's the grand finale of our 'Revolution Saga,' which began in 'Devil's Reign: Winter Soldier,' continued in 'Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty' and 'Captain America: Cold War,' and culminated in 'Thunderbolts: Worldstrike.' Fans of our previous work shouldn't miss this."

The creators express their hope that "Doomstrike" will attract MCU viewers, given the similarities between the comic's team roster and the upcoming "Thunderbolts" movie.

Kelly concludes, "MCU fans will find our Bucky familiar. This story highlights Contessa Valentina Allegra de la Fontaine's manipulative nature, and the Bucky/Natasha romance is central. With Doom's imminent MCU appearance, this story serves as a terrifying introduction to one of Marvel's greatest villains."

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