The MCU’s Strongest Mutants (So Far) Ranked

It’s quite astounding to witness the array of powers and abilities that these Marvel mutants possess. From the ancient ruler of the seas, Namor, to the young, enthusiastic Kamala Khan, each character brings something unique to the table.

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), for about 11 years, there was a restriction against featuring mutants. Although the Avengers and X-Men often interact in the comics, the MCU had been unable to depict mutants due to Fox Entertainment owning the film rights to these characters. However, starting from March 2019, this changed when Disney bought Fox Entertainment, giving Marvel Studios control over all mutant characters previously exclusive to Fox films. Consequently, since the beginning of the 2020s, the MCU has been gradually introducing more and more mutants across various movies and TV series.

To date, we haven’t witnessed large numbers of Marvel Cinematic Universe mutants or contemporary live-action portrayals of beloved characters such as Rogue, Storm, Nightcrawler, and others within the multimedia series. However, recent releases like “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” and notably “Deadpool & Wolverine” have introduced enough of these characters to establish that certain MCU mutants exhibit greater power levels. Arranging these mutant characters from “least powerful” to “most powerful” in the Marvel Cinematic Universe demonstrates the diverse ways in which the saga presents these figures, ranging from comical depictions to formidable villains whose powers are awe-inspiring. The comics have always portrayed mutations as coming in all forms and sizes. Placing the MCU’s most powerful mutants in order reflects that this expansive franchise is already following that tradition.

Alejandro Montoya / El Águila

In the final episode of “She-Hulk: Attorney at Law”, Jennifer Walters, also known as She-Hulk, employs her unique ability to break the fourth wall to engage K.E.V.I.N., the entity managing the Marvel Cinematic Universe. During their dialogue, Walters inquires eagerly if there’s any intel on when the X-Men might join the MCU. Although K.E.V.I.N. declines to elaborate on that matter, it is later revealed that Walters had an encounter with a mutant earlier in the series. Alejandro Montoya, alias El Águila, a mutant character from the comics, made an appearance earlier in “The Retreat”. Portrayed by Joseph Castillo-Midyett, he’s one of several lesser-known Marvel Comics villains who attended Emil Blonsky’s Summer Twilight event. His advice turned out to be crucial when Walters was going through a romantic predicament.

In “The Retreat,” Montoyas character is less intimidating compared to other villains due to the lighter, more personal narrative focus. He does reveal his sword and electric powers from the comics, but it’s challenging to gauge his true strength or weakness because much of the episode centers around humorous dialogues. Furthermore, while Montoya’s mutant status isn’t directly mentioned in his “Attorney at Law” role, Blonsky referring to his electrical abilities as “bio-electricity” suggests they originate naturally rather than mechanically. Interestingly, Montoya plays a significant part in Walters personal realization. However, when it comes to showcasing the might of mutants, he falls short.

Mr. Immortal

In the series “She-Hulk: Attorney at Law,” it’s not just Alejandro Montoya/El Águila who makes an appearance as a mutant comic book character; in the episode “Just Jen,” there’s also a subplot focusing on Mr. Immortal (played by David Pasquesi). Unlike his comic book counterpart, the Mr. Immortal depicted in this show is an older schemer in his 60s, known for faking his own death to escape multiple marriages, rather than being a young man in a red-and-blue costume. While his ability to regenerate from any harm or injury is shown on-screen, he’s not explicitly identified as a mutant in this version of the story.

As a gamer, I’ve got to say, unlike Alejandro Montoya/El Águila, Mr. Immortal isn’t your typical invincible hero who flaunts his powers all the time. But let me tell you, if you ever find yourself under a car during an Avengers mission, you’d be grateful for his knack to bounce back like nothing happened. It’s no secret that he’s had quite a few relationships, and it seems like he’s been around the block a time or two with those powers. I can’t help but wonder what kind of impact this immortal being has left on this world beyond divorce court drama.

Ursa Major

Leading up to the home release of “Black Widow”, actor Olivier Richters revealed his character in the film. More than that, he declared that he was portraying the first mutant in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This significant announcement came from Richters taking on the part of Ursa Major, a mutant who, in the comics, has the ability to transform into a massive, violent bear. However, during his limited screen time in “Black Widow”, there’s no real indication of these enhanced powers. Instead, Ursa Major is shown as another inmate in a Russian prison where Alexei (David Harbour) is held captive. In one scene, he confronts Alexei’s tales about fighting Captain America by challenging him to an arm-wrestling match, a contest that the seemingly lazy Alexei wins against the towering Majors.

In essence, the portrayal of Ursa Major in the Marvel Cinematic Universe doesn’t rely on him transforming into a bear to be menacing. If he possesses any special powers in his live-action form, they were not showcased in “Black Widow.” Instead, his brief appearance served to highlight that Alexei still has fighting skills despite the passage of time. Unlike some characters who seemingly only appear once but return for more roles in the MCU, Ursa Major currently lacks notable superpowers compared to other mutants introduced in the franchise. However, given the unpredictable nature of the MCU, there’s a possibility he could become a powerful mutant in future live-action appearances. For now, his powers are relatively underdeveloped within the universe.

Hank McCoy/Beast

The big blue mutant known as Hank McCoy/Beast doesn’t just have wit and lots of fur. He’s also a deeply powerful comic book superhero that can take down Sentinels and cosmic adversaries with ease. In his previous live-action movie appearances, the Kelsey Grammer and Nicholas Hoult incarnations of this character were prim-and-proper guys who could also slice down foes without blinking an eye. There always been a mixture of intellect and fearsome power within this mutant that’s captivated fans for decades. Grammer reprised the role of Beast in a “The Marvels” mid-credits scene, though he’s now taken on a fully-digital more comic book-accurate appearance compared to his “The Last Stand” and “Days of Future Past” appearances. Beast’s cameo here is incredibly brief and is used to help cement the reality that Monica Rambeau (Teyonah Parris) is in another dimension.

In the comic books, Beast is strong enough to be a member of both the X-Men and Avengers groups. However, due to his limited screen time in “The Marvels,” it’s hard to determine how powerful this version of Beast truly is. He mostly appears in a lab coat explaining technical terms, making it hard to gauge his strength and abilities within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It’s also uncertain if this is an entirely new Beast or a continuation from the Fox Studios era (although certain design elements and musical cues hint that it could be the “Last Stand” version of Beast). In essence, Beast’s introduction in the MCU is too vague to justify a higher ranking.

Charles Xavier

If you assumed that Patrick Stewart’s portrayal of Charles Xavier in “Logan” marked the end of his screen appearances, you would be mistaken. In the year 2022, a new version of this mutant character appeared in “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.” This was actually the first time a mutant was explicitly featured in a Marvel Cinematic Universe film. In this movie, Xavier was part of The Illuminati, a group of powerful individuals in an alternate universe, alongside Black Bolt and Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic. This version of Xavier seemed to possess enough power to earn a place among the Illuminati members. His fellow Illuminati members also showed him respect and deference, hinting at a significant legacy he’s left behind.

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe film, “Multiverse of Madness”, just like other Illuminati members, Professor Charles Xavier proves vulnerable against Wanda Maximoff’s wrath. After penetrating her mind, Maximoff reverses the situation and breaks Xavier’s neck. This incident represents the third on-screen death of Stewart’s Xavier, suggesting that we might not have seen the last of this character. This incident underscores the finite power of this mutant, despite his previous portrayals as a survivor in films such as “Last Stand” and “Days of Future Past”. In this instance, the Illuminati version of Xavier remains deceased within “Multiverse of Madness”. Despite being a formidable protector of Earth, it’s evident that he is not the most potent Xavier across the multiverse.

Gambit

The little-known tale behind Channing Tatum’s Gambit film is filled with setbacks and artistic roadblocks. For almost a decade, Tatum tirelessly worked towards launching a standalone movie featuring this Louisiana mutant. At one point, he even intended to direct such a project himself; however, the Disney-Fox merger ultimately shelved “Gambit” permanently. Eventually, Tatum had the chance to embody the character in a high-profile production titled “Deadpool & Wolverine.” In this film, Gambit is depicted as one of several superheroes who miraculously survived Cassandra Nova and other malevolent forces within The Void. As a result, he teams up with Deadpool and Wolverine’s unconventional group of superheroes to challenge Nova in a desperate attempt to bring those two mutants back home. Throughout his screen time, Gambit becomes the target of numerous jokes due to his thick Cajun accent, but he also showcases his card-playing talents on the battlefield.

Instead of being portrayed comically as a sarcastic jest, Gambit’s skill to manipulate kinetic energy and infuse it lethally into playing cards is showcased dramatically. In an unforgettable scene, Gambit uses this mutant talent along with his mastery over the bo staff to eliminate numerous of Nova’s minions. Moreover, he demonstrates his combat prowess on the battlefield, managing to endure the events depicted in “Deadpool & Wolverine.” After a long wait, the character finally made it to the big screen. With Tatum at the helm, these dreams have been fulfilled, and Gambit has proven himself to be one of the MCU’s most potent mutants.

Wolverine

As a die-hard fan, I can confidently say that the unyielding truth about Wolverine’s mortality was vividly portrayed in “Logan” (2017), and it was further emphasized in the opening sequence of “Deadpool & Wolverine.” In this scene, Deadpool effectively utilized Wolverine’s adamantium-reinforced skeleton to annihilate a horde of Time Variance Authority agents. The mortality he exhibited within the realistic parameters of “Logan” alone is proof enough that even though Wolverine may come from different universes, he isn’t the most powerful mutant alive.

Start by looking at any of the top 12 live-action scenes featuring Wolverine, and it’s evident that he remains a force of nature. His claws reinforced with adamantium can cut through opponents with remarkable accuracy. He’s also managed to endure due to his healing powers, surviving numerous wars and tragic events throughout history. Even in the final episode of “Deadpool & Wolverine”, he held his own with Deadpool’s help. Wolverine’s capacity to portray both deeply emotional and heroic moments with equal intensity is what makes him such a captivating character. However, this vulnerability means he isn’t quite as powerful as other Marvel Cinematic Universe mutants who are more resistant to death.

Deadpool

Despite countless attempts, it’s impossible to silence Deadpool, the chatty, mutated character played by Ryan Reynolds as Wade Wilson/Deadpool. Following his tumultuous journey chronicled in the 2016 film “Deadpool,” he unlocked extraordinary powers like regenerative healing. After enduring so much hardship, he found out that he couldn’t die, a fact he uses to combat crime of every kind. In fact, not even a major studio merger could eliminate him from existence. Reynolds returned to the role of Deadpool in theaters for the first time in six years in “Deadpool & Wolverine,” released in July 2024. The Disney/Fox merger only confirmed that the Marvel Cinematic Universe had room for this Talkative Merc rather than discarding him. Given his exceptional combat skills and box office success, it’s hard to imagine getting rid of such a proficient mutant character.

If there’s anything preventing Deadpool from a higher position on this list, it’s his inherent goofiness. This is evident in the numerous ridiculous aspects of the character, such as Deadpool’s grotesque physical traits that leave Marvel fans cringing. Essentially, Wilson is an absurd figure. His incredibly powerful mutant abilities are more humorous than intimidating. He has the ability to make people laugh, but part of this is due to his inability to engage in serious combat with other mutants like Juggernaut or Colossus. Deadpool has the strength to withstand corporate schemes, but his knack for sarcastic remarks keeps him from becoming the MCU’s most fearsome mutant.

Namor

Since 1939, Namor has been an essential part of the Marvel Comics universe. However, it wasn’t until 2022 that he made his live-action debut. In “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”, this underwater ruler served as the main antagonist and was brilliantly brought to life by Tenoch Huerta Mejía. In this film, Namor revealed himself to be a mutant, boasting abilities like flight, pointed ears, and the unique ability to live both on land and in water. By labeling Namor as a mutant in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, they are staying true to his comic book persona as “the first mutant”. This makes Namor the first character in a Marvel Cinematic Universe movie to openly refer to themselves as a mutant, a title he has carried for decades.

The phrase ‘Wakanda Forever’ goes beyond merely establishing Namor as the earliest and most powerful Marvel Cinematic Universe mutant yet; it portrays him as a centuries-old ruler who commands the reverence of his Talokan subjects. His relentless pursuit of vengeance, marked by brutal efficiency, results in the flooding of Wakanda and the demise of Queen Ramonda. With a history filled with victories, he leads an immense army, repeatedly outmaneuvering Shuri in combat. This water-dominated realm is where one of the mighty MCU mutants holds his throne.

Kamala Khan/Ms. Marvel

As a fervent admirer of the Marvel universe, I can’t help but marvel at the contrast between Namor, a long-standing comic legend, and Kamala Khan, who burst onto the scene more recently, in 2013. G. Willow Wilson and her creative team breathed life into this vibrant character, captivating fans with Kamala’s spirited demeanor, lively domestic scenes, and infectious enthusiasm right from the get-go.

Initially, Khan’s superpowers stemmed from her Inhuman ancestry when she first appeared in comic books. However, as the character moved to live-action storytelling within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, elements related to Inhumans were temporarily set aside. A shift was necessary. The final episode of “Ms. Marvel’s” first season revealed a crucial detail that fans had been eagerly anticipating in the MCU – Khan is a mutant. This revelation fulfilled the original intentions for the character as conceived in the comics.

In “Ms. Marvel” and “The Marvels,” Khan employs a magical bracelet to unveil her talents and form translucent structures of diverse shapes and dimensions. With these powers, she shields her loved ones and, by the end of “Ms. Marvel,” even manages to grow her size significantly. In “The Marvels,” her abilities become crucial in mending a tear in the multiverse alongside Monica Rambeau and Carol Danvers. Not only does she battle alongside these established heroes effortlessly, but also at such a young age, Khan has already showcased extraordinary mutant abilities across merely two MCU appearances, making her one of the most influential newcomers to the franchise.

Cassandra Nova

As a gamer, I can’t help but address the elephant in the room: yes, Cassandra Nova seems to meet her end at the close of “Deadpool & Wolverine.” However, this doesn’t negate the fact that she wielded her mutant powers for some truly sinister purposes. In fact, the Time Variance Authority’s attempt to eliminate her as an infant by sending her to The Void was a clear indication of how dangerous they perceived her to be. But here’s the twist – instead of being snuffed out, Nova thrived in that desolate place. She not only lived, but she used her telepathic abilities (similar to those of her twin brother, Charles Xavier) to rally a motley crew. With the power to strip your skin with a mere flick or delve into your deepest thoughts without so much as batting an eye, it’s no surprise that people follow her orders.

Amidst a desolate world teeming with death, Nova stands out as a pulsating, intimidating force of nature. She is not only an overwhelmingly potent adversary but also boasts possessions that hint at the numerous superheroes she effortlessly vanquished, such as Doctor Strange or Ant-Man. However, her aspirations eventually surpassed her abilities. Her attempt to annihilate the Multiverse and seize even greater power led to Deadpool and Wolverine joining forces to thwart her. Yet, during her lifetime, Nova displayed an unfathomable level of power that no other mutant in the Marvel Cinematic Universe could fathom in their wildest dreams. The embodiment of The Void will be remembered as the MCU’s most powerful mutant.

2024-11-15 15:31