Review of Avengers Vs X-Men: Versus #1

First Look for Avengers Vs X-Men: Versus #1

This issue is completely tied into the whole Avengers Vs. X-Men event as it actually details a couple of the fights that take place in the 2nd issue of that title. In particular we see the fights between Iron Man and Magneto and The Thing and Namor. Both are classic battles that everyone wanted to see so Marvel listened and put this issue together.

Avengers Vs. X-Men: Versus #1

Match 1: The Invincible Iron Man Vs. Magneto by Jason Aaron and Adam Kubert. Published by Marvel Comics, 2012.
The first part of this issue feature an epic battle that I’m sure a lot of people imagined but I don’t think they pictured it the way things play out. Cocky and overconfident Iron Man fighting against arrogant and overconfident Magneto is a great matchup. And usually one would think the master of magnetism would easily dominate. Tony Stark and his billions have other things to say about the outcome though.

It’s a good fight that extends beyond Earth and that ultimately plays a significant part in the result as the power of the Phoenix injects itself into the fight and things end up not being very fair at all.

Avengers Vs. X-Men: Versus #1

Match 2: The Thing Vs. Namor The Sub-Mariner by Kathryn Immonen and Stuart Immonen. Published by Marvel Comics, 2012.

This section of the issue pits The Thing against one of his hated rivals, Namor. These two have been after each other and barely tolerated each other at times since the Fantastic Four debuted. Namor actually predates the Fantastic Four but his conflict with them goes back to FF issue 4 and it’s a fun exercise to see these 2 go at each other.

The fact that most of the fight takes place in the water makes me think Namor would have the advantage but the Thing is pretty powerful and determined. I think that might be what tips the scales in his favor…his grumpy attitude and determination to take out his poor attitude on anyone who gets in his way. It’s a good battle and fun to watch though.

Both of these fights are welcome and easily expected in a battle between the X-Men and The Avengers. The art by Kubert and Immonen is really well done and I like the little twists and special features that make each fight interesting. On the whole this is a fun issue with a kind of ‘what if’ vibe.

You can find first looks at other issues in this event linked in my January Reading List.
I rate this issue a B.

This comic can be found on Marvel Unlimited, Comixology or at your local comic book shop.