The New Guard Is Here

X-Men #94

Writer: Chris Claremont and Len Wein
Artist: Dave Cockrum
Colorist: Phil Rachelson
Inker: Bob McCleod
Letterer: Tom Orzechowski
Published by Marvel Comics, 1975.

The Doomsmith Scenario
Following on the heels of Giant-Size X-Men #1, Uncanny X-Men #94 (sometimes referred to as just X-Men #94) represents the start of Chris Claremont’s run on the title. It also takes off on the idea that the original X-Men – Marvel Girl, Iceman, Havok, and Angel – have decided to leave the team to pursue their own interests. We’ll see if the replacements live up to the X-Men name, but I have a feeling Storm, Wolverine, Colossus, Nightcrawler, Banshee, and Thunderbird will do just fine with Cyclops at the helm. 

In their first mission after the breakup, we see Count Nefaria who the original team bested in issues 22 and 23 reappear to take control of the Valhalla military base where NORAD controls the U.S. nuclear arsenal. He’s captured the base, has implemented the Doomsmith System and is blackmailing the world with nuclear annihilation if they don’t pay up.

With both drama and action we see the new members come together in fits and starts but they head out to Valhalla base to stop the Count and his Maggia Science infused Ani-Men.

I’m looking forward to seeing where this story goes and how Claremont puts his stamp on the mutants.

Verdict

I rate this issue Must Read for anyone interested in the X-Men or the history of the Marvel Universe.

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