Just when you thought you were out, Robert Downey Jr. and the Russo brothers are pulling you back into the Marvel universe with a thrilling new era: One World Under Doom. Set to unfold throughout most of 2025, this saga will see Dr. Doom ascend to the roles of World Emperor, Sorcerer Supreme, and leader of the Superior Avengers.
The Superior Avengers, a 6-issue series launching in April, will feature a lineup of villains reimagined as heroes, penned by Steve Fox and illustrated by Luca Maresca. This team includes:
- Abomination: Kristoff, Doom's adopted son and Reed Richards' half-brother.
- Dr. Octopus: A new female character, distinct from Caroline Trainer.
- Ghost: A mysterious woman from the Ant-Man universe.
- Killmonger: A fresh take on the character.
- Malekith: Leading the Black Elves, now staying on Earth.
- Onslaught: A formidable addition to the team.
This concept isn't entirely new; Norman Osborn's Dark Avengers in 2009 and Hydra's Avengers during the Secret Empire event have set precedents for villains taking on heroic roles. But how did Doom achieve such dominance? Let's explore the stepping stones that led to One World Under Doom.
Emperor Doom
Image: ensigame.com
While not directly related to the current event, the 1987 graphic novel "Emperor Doom" by David Michelini and Bob Hall showcases Doom's global ambitions. His theft of the Silver Surfer's cosmic power in Fantastic Four #57 is an early example of Doom's grand schemes.
President Doom 2099
Image: ensigame.com
In Warren Ellis and Pat Broderick's Doom 2099, Doom nearly conquers America, highlighting his vision of saving the world by controlling America. This series is a testament to Doom's enduring quest for power and order.
Secret Wars
Image: ensigame.com
Doom's role in Jonathan Hickman's Secret Wars (2015) is perhaps his most ambitious. As God-Emperor Doom, he reshapes the universe, marrying Sue Storm, transforming Johnny Storm into Sunshine, and establishing Ben Grimm as the Wall. This saga showcases Doom's desire for godlike power and his complex motivations.
Blood Hunt
Image: ensigame.com
The 2024 Vampire Invasion event by Jed McKay and Pepe Larraz is crucial to Doom's rise. As the world faces a vampiric threat fueled by the Darkhold, Doctor Strange turns to Doom for help. Doom insists on becoming Sorcerer Supreme to combat the crisis, a role he retains even after the immediate threat is neutralized, setting the stage for his ultimate ascension.
As we await further details from Robert Downey Jr. and the Russo brothers in February, dive into the world that belongs to Doom alone, where his rule will shape the Marvel universe in unprecedented ways.
