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." February marks the launch of "One World Under Doom," a major crossover event. Doctor Doom, the newly crowned Sorcerer Supreme, claims global emperorship. This narrative unfolds in 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 solicitation hints at a thrilling conflict: "Bucky, Songbird, Sharon Carter, and the Midnight Angels devise a daring plan to target Doom's vibranium supply. However, they face an unexpected obstacle – THE THUNDERBOLTS?! It's THUNDERBOLTS VS. THUNDERBOLTS!"

The slideshow below showcases the preview. Kelly and Lanzing discuss the series, highlighting its significance as the culmination of a long-running Bucky Barnes storyline.

Exclusive Preview Gallery of Thunderbolts: Doomstrike #3

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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 new team, tasked with confronting Marvel's most formidable villains. Their victories, however, inadvertently pave the path for Doom's ascension.

Lanzing explains, "Bucky neutralized the Red Skull, crippled Kingpin's finances, and undermined US government deterrence. This was meant to improve global safety and inspire change. Unfortunately, it also inspired Victor Von Doom, whom Bucky used as a tool against the Red Skull. Using Doom as a weapon is a mistake one regrets."

Kelly reveals that "Worldstrike," their initial "Thunderbolts" arc, was always designed to lead to a Doom-focused sequel. North's company-wide Doom crossover was a fortunate coincidence.

Kelly states, "Planning the sequel, we learned about 'One World Under Doom.' Ryan North's work revealed Bucky's manipulation of Doom as a pivotal event in Victor's rise. This new 'Thunderbolts' mission isn't just a fight against evil; it's a judgment of Bucky's decisions. 'Doomstrike' offers Bucky redemption, but it will push him to his limits."

Bucky's guilt over his role in Doom's rise is central to "Doomstrike." Kelly points out that guilt has been a constant in Bucky's narrative since his resurrection.

Kelly explains, "Bucky's guilt, stemming from his Winter Soldier past and Outer Circle missions, has burdened him. Just as he thought he could move on, he's blamed for Doom's rise. Doom knows this and will exploit his guilt. After the first issue, the pressure will intensify, and Bucky might struggle to cope."

Lanzing adds, "The Thunderbolts have varied motivations. Songbird acts out of loyalty and heroism, yet she's grieving Abner Jenkins (MACH-X). Black Widow prioritizes Bucky's safety, their romance recently rekindled. Destroyer is already on a mission. Sharon Carter combats fascism. U.S. Agent is disillusioned. Ghost Rider '44, an old friend, re-enters the fray. Other members remain a surprise, but each has reason to oppose Doom or worry about Bucky."

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

Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts

"Doomstrike" features the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts, many now aligned with Doom. Issue #3's cover depicts the clash between the two teams.

Kelly says, "We're excited to bring back the original Thunderbolts and pit them against Bucky's team. From Songbird and Abner's relationship to Citizen V's return, it's an honor to revisit these characters and their core dilemma: is redemption possible for villains?"

Lanzing adds, "Doom, not Bucky, controls the Thunderbolts. In Doom's world, heroes are under his control. Why are they organizing? And why is Bucky the primary target?"

Songbird is crucial, torn between loyalty to her old and new teams.

Kelly explains, "Melissa returns ready to aid Bucky, but her history with the other Thunderbolts, now serving Doom, will break her heart. The Thunderbolts are her world, and this conflict will deeply affect her."

Kelly and Lanzing's long collaboration with Bucky, extending beyond "Thunderbolts" to "Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty" and "Captain America: Cold War," culminates in "Doomstrike."

Lanzing teases, "This is our final Bucky Barnes story for now. We call it the 'Revolution Saga.' It began in 'Devil's Reign: Winter Soldier,' continued in 'Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty' and 'Captain America: Cold War,' and focused on Bucky in 'Thunderbolts: Worldstrike.' Bucky uncovered his origins, clashed with his friend, found love, and embraced a new identity – but it all culminates here. Fans of our previous work shouldn't miss this. It's the grand finale, and we're giving it our all."

"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" coincides with the May release of the "Thunderbolts" movie. Kelly and Lanzing hope to attract MCU viewers.

Kelly states, "MCU Bucky fans will find our Bucky familiar, at least initially. This story explains Contessa Valentina's threat. For Bucky and Natasha fans, their romance is central. With Doom's upcoming MCU appearance, this story and 'One World Under Doom' offer a terrifying introduction to a great villain. We hope that movie fans will seek out 'Thunderbolts: Worldstrike' and 'Doomstrike,' leading them to the world of Marvel comics."

Which new comic are you most excited to read in 2025? (Poll)

"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #1 releases February 19, 2025. Learn more about Marvel's 2025 plans and anticipated comics.