Why Thunderbolts: Doomstrike Is an Essential Part of Marvel's One World Under Doom Crossover

2025: A Marvel Universe Under Doom's Reign

The Marvel Universe in 2025 is defined by one word: "Doom." A new crossover event, One World Under Doom, launches in February, showcasing Doctor Doom's ascension as Sorcerer Supreme and self-proclaimed world emperor. This narrative unfolds across Ryan North and R.B. Silva's One World Under Doom miniseries and numerous tie-in titles. A crucial 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). Marvel's 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 this iteration, tasked with confronting major Marvel villains through any means necessary. Their victories over Hydra and the Kingpin, however, inadvertently paved the path for Doom's power grab.

Lanzing explains, "Bucky eliminated the Red Skull, crippled the Kingpin's finances, and destabilized the US government. This was intended to foster a safer world and inspire change. Instead, it empowered Victor Von Doom, whom Bucky used as a tool. One doesn't weaponize Doom without facing dire consequences."

Kelly reveals that their Worldstrike storyline was always intended to set up a Doom-focused sequel. North's company-wide Doom crossover was a fortunate coincidence.

"When planning the follow-up, we learned about One World Under Doom. We discovered that Bucky's manipulation of Doom was a pivotal event in his rise to power. Doomstrike is Bucky's chance at redemption, but it will push him to his limits."

Bucky's guilt over his role in Doom's ascension is a central theme. Kelly points out that guilt has been a constant in Bucky's narrative since his resurrection as the Winter Soldier.

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

Lanzing elaborates on the other Thunderbolts' motivations: Songbird acts out of loyalty and heroism, but also grieves for Abner Jenkins; Black Widow prioritizes Bucky's safety; Sharon Carter fights fascism; U.S. Agent is disillusioned; and Ghost Rider '44, an old friend, re-enters the fray. Further team members remain a surprise.

Regarding Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, Kelly teases, "Val's role is complex; readers must discover it in issue #1."

Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts

A key element of Doomstrike is the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts. While Songbird sides with Bucky, most of her former teammates align with Doom. The two teams are set to clash.

Kelly highlights the return of the original Thunderbolts, exploring the theme of redemption for villains. Lanzing reveals that Doom, not Bucky, is using the Thunderbolts name, controlling them as his "Fulgar Victoris." The reasons behind their actions and Bucky's status as a prime target remain to be seen.

Songbird's predicament is central, torn between loyalty to her past and commitment to Bucky. Kelly describes her return as stylish and eager to assist Bucky, but the conflict with her former teammates will deeply affect her.

Kelly and Lanzing's work with Bucky spans several years, including Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty and Captain America: Cold War. Doomstrike serves as the culmination of their Bucky storyline.

Lanzing confirms that Doomstrike is the finale of their "Revolution Saga," encompassing previous works. He urges fans of their previous Bucky stories to read this concluding chapter.

The timing of Doomstrike coincides with the May release of the Thunderbolts movie. Kelly and Lanzing aim to attract MCU viewers, highlighting the familiarity of their Bucky portrayal and the relevance of Contessa Valentina and the Bucky/Natasha romance. They hope to introduce MCU audiences to the world of Marvel comics.

Thunderbolts: Doomstrike #1 releases February 19, 2025.