10 Must-Read Battleworld Comics Before Avengers: Secret Wars!

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As Avengers: Doomsday and its release draw near, fans’ anticipation is building just as it did during the Avengers: Endgame days. These films are expected to be a significant turning point in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, so fans are eager for more information about them, especially since the extensive cast announcement and the leak of concept art in recent weeks. To stay ahead of this event, it’s advisable to delve into the source material first.

Secret Wars” is actually a 9-issue series, but it also includes various spin-offs that give a clear picture of the extensive universal turmoil during this event. These spin-offs focus on numerous alternate realities within Battleworld – a map resembling a patchwork quilt, where the surviving Earths are combined after the multiverse was annihilated. Before the movies make it to the big screen, these Battleworld issues are definitely worth reading.

By Cullen Bunn, Matteo Lolli, Ruth Redmond, and Joe Sabino

In a fashion uniquely fitting for Deadpool, his comic book series, “Deadpool’s Secret Secret Wars,” honors the original 1985 “Secret Wars” by playfully mocking and subverting its legacy with humor. Instead of being left behind on Earth as in the original story, this time Deadpool is among the heroes who are transported to Battleworld, adding a fresh twist to the events at the beginning of it all.

In a refreshing twist, Deadpool’s Secret Secret Wars doesn’t present a fresh alternate universe but instead revisits something fans have already recognized. This connection is a testament to Deadpool at its peak. The character, known for his witty remarks, starts off being as funny as ever by frequently breaking the fourth wall to offer comments on the unfolding events. Introducing Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool into the MCU’s Secret Wars in this manner would be an ideal choice.

By N.D. Stevenson, Sanford Greene, John Rauch, and Clayton Cowles

In the “Secret Wars” saga, the storyline doesn’t revolve around the original Runaways team. Instead, it centers on characters such as Frostbite, Jubilee, Pixie, Delphyne Gorgon, Bruiser, Amadeus Cho, Skaar, and Cloak and Dagger. These individuals form Team Puce, a group of students attending the prestigious Victor von Doom Institute for Exceptionally Gifted Youths, who are trying to navigate their time in this stringent educational institution.

Runaways offers a fresh perspective on characters yet to appear in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, making it an enjoyable read regardless of adaptation prospects. The appeal lies not only in its exploration of Battleworld’s alternate realities that drastically reshape the familiar Marvel universe – for instance, Tandy becomes Cloak while Ty transforms into Dagger, and Xavier’s Institute is governed by Doom. This level of multiversal chaos is the kind of innovative, mind-bending storytelling Marvel Studios could introduce to their future projects.

By Haden Blackman, Dalibor Talajic, Goran Sudzuka, Miroslav Mrva, and Travis Lanham

The 1974 Shang-Chi series receives a fresh update, referred to now as the “Master of Kung Fu.” This updated version takes inspiration from the wuxia genre, adding an even more grandiose and ominous tone. Instead of following the traditional storyline, it delves into the life of a drunken Shang-Chi, reflecting on his past in K’un Lun and the martial arts competitions held there.

As a devoted fan, I’m thrilled about Shang-Chi’s upcoming appearance in Avengers: Doomsday, and I can only imagine his pivotal role in wrapping up the Multiverse Saga. Considering that some felt Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings was a tad too light, I fervently hope Marvel Studios will bring the gritty intensity of the Master of Kung Fu comics to the big screen. Even if they don’t, I’m confident that fans like myself will be captivated by the adrenaline-fueled panels in this iconic comic book series.

By Charles Soule, Leinil Francis Yu, Gerry Alanguilan, Sunny Gho, and Joe Sabino

If Tony and Steve had refused to yield during the Civil War, what might have transpired is depicted in this Secret Wars tie-in. The story unfolds in a world where the conflict escalated so severely that millions perished, ultimately leading to separate territories: Iron and Blue. After years apart, their shared loss, prompted by Miriam Sharpe—a woman mourning her son from the final battle—incites them to seek peace. However, following Miriam’s murder, tensions resurface once more.

As a devoted Marvel fan, I can’t help but express my excitement over the gripping narrative that “Secret Wars” offers, serving as an outstanding reimagining of the iconic Civil War event in the Marvel universe. In this rendition, there are no more heroes, as every character has been tainted – whether by power, resentment, or sorrow. This high-stakes, non-committal tale is exactly the kind of thrilling storyline I crave to see unfold within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

By G. Willow Wilson, Jorge Molina, Craig Yeung, Laura Martin, Matt Milla, and Cory Petit

Within the realm of Battleworld, there’s a territory governed by She-Hulk, commonly referred to as Arcadia. The guardians of this land are collectively known as A-Force, which includes She-Hulk, Nico Minoru, Captain Marvel, Dazzler, Miss America, Storm, and numerous other heroines. In the latest storyline, A-Force embarks on a mission to safeguard Arcadia when a Megalodon breaks through their defenses. Initially suspecting Namor and his Sub-Mariners as the culprits, they soon discover that the true villain is concealed among them, hidden in plain sight.

Unlike other Battleworld comics, A-Force stands out by keeping things straightforward. The team consists entirely of female Avengers, and they face a familiar foe. It remains an enjoyable read and is perfect for Marvel Cinematic Universe fans curious about the Avengers’ adventures outside of the Infinity Saga’s original group.

By James Robinson, Steve Pugh, Ron Garney, Jim Charalampidis, Matt Milla, and Clayton Cowles

In the crossover event titled “Age of Ultron vs. Marvel Zombies“, fans of the Marvel Cinatic Universe will witness a world where the fearsome duo, Ultron and the Marvel Zombies, clash. However, as the story unfolds, they find common ground, posing a significant threat to the safety of Battleworld.

If you’re an MCU enthusiast eagerly anticipating a sneak peek into the potential action-packed events of Avengers: Secret Wars, I recommend reading Age of Ultron vs. Marvel Zombies. This comic is filled with one exciting scene after another. Given that both Age of Ultron and Marvel Zombies have been featured in the MCU, there’s a possibility that this Battleworld could be adapted for the film.

By Gerry Duggan, Nik Virella, Lee Loughridge, and Clayton Cowles

1872, nestled in Timely, New Mexico, is the setting for a Western story that reimagines some of Marvel’s iconic heroes. In this town, ruled by the corrupt Major Wilson Fisk, the Roxxons hold sway. Even the honorable Sheriff Steve Rogers cannot prevent these unscrupulous individuals from accumulating power and resources, regardless of who may perish in their pursuit of dominance.

1872 delves deeper with intricate narratives and elaborate character development, setting the stage more profoundly within its genre compared to the TV series. It serves as an excellent precursor for the multiverse extravaganza that Avengers: Secret Wars promises.

By Jason Aaron, Chris Sprouse, Karl Story, Marte Gracia, and Joe Sabino

In place of Asgard, there now stands Doomgard, the site of the Hall of Homicide, where all Thors reside. These Thunder Gods function as cosmic law enforcers, upholding the rules set by Emperor God Doom. The story Thors revolves around Thorlief, also known as Ultimate Thor, who is investigating a string of murders that have occurred across Battleworld.

Essentially, “Thors” blends the world of a Thor comic book series with police investigations. By tapping into the rich mythology of the God of Thunder, it crafts an engaging murder mystery that promises to captivate readers. Fervent fans can merely cross their fingers that the Marvel Cinematic Universe will eventually introduce the Thor Corps on the silver screen.

By Sam Humphries, Marc Laming, Jordan Boyd, and Travis Lanham

Originally a tranquil territory, Greenland now stands as the realm of colossal beings known as Hulks, following A.I.M.’s bombardment with gamma radiation. In his crusade, Steve Rogers assumes the role of an arena warrior, seeking to eliminate their ruler, thus compelling Doom to liberate his dear friend, Bucky Barnes. This iteration of Captain America finds himself perpetually engaged in combat against these colossal Green Titans day and night.

The latest Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) art leak strongly hints that the storyline of Planet Hulk will be featured in Avengers: Secret Wars, as an image shows Hulk, She-Hulk, and Skaar standing together at a medieval village. With this potential development on the horizon, it’s wise for fans to delve into these thrilling comic book stories before the film’s release. Regardless of how closely the MCU adapts the story, the original comic series provides ample action and adventure.

By Gerry Duggan, Dustin Weaver, and Albert Deschesne

Once again, Thanos seeks to locate the Infinity Stones, but unlike previous attempts, the Avengers are nowhere to be found as they hinder his plans. Instead, it’s Anwen Bakian, a young teenager and daughter of the Nova Corps, who has been forced to flee from conflict due to the Annihilation Wave, that stands in his path this time.

The Infinity Gauntlet narrative transforms a conventional superhero-versus-supervillain tale into a domestic saga. In this story, Anwen and her kin are the protagonists, demonstrating that even a child can yield the Infinity Stones. As the Infinity Saga is built around this incident, it would be intriguing to witness it unfold with a family triumphant instead of the Avengers emerging victorious.

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2025-04-28 06:59