Robert Downey Jr. and the Russo brothers are set to captivate fans once again! According to Marvel, Doom's dominion will define an era, akin to Dark Reign, rather than a fleeting event like last year's Blood Hunt. Throughout 2025, the Marvel universe will unfold under Doom's rule as World Emperor, Sorcerer Supreme, and leader of the Superior Avengers.
The Superior Avengers will feature a roster of villains, but with a twist—familiar names will be embodied by new characters:
Abomination. Kristoff, Doom’s adopted son and Reed Richards’ half-brother.Dr. Octopus. Not Caroline Trainer, but another enigmatic woman.Ghost. A mysterious woman, as seen in Ant-Man.Killmonger. Reimagined in a bold new form.Malekith. The Black Elves remain on Earth.Onslaught. A formidable presence.The Superior Avengers series, a six-issue arc, is penned by Steve Fox (X-Men '92: House of XCII, Dark X-Men, Dead X-Men, Spider-Woman) with art by Luca Maresca (X-Men: Forever, Children of the Vault). It debuts in April.
Image: ensigame.com
This concept echoes past storylines. In 2009’s Dark Avengers, Norman Osborn swapped out the Avengers for villains like Iron Patriot, Scorpion (posing as Spider-Man), Moonstone (as Ms. Marvel), Swordsman (as Hawkeye), Daken (as Wolverine), Sentry, Marvel Boy, and Ares.
Similarly, during the Secret Empire event, Hydra assembled its own Avengers with the unworthy Thor, Vision (under Arnim Zola’s control), Scarlet Witch (manipulated by Chthon), Deadpool, Superior Octopus, Taskmaster, and Black Ant.
How did Dr. Doom ascend to World Emperor and Sorcerer Supreme, leading the Superior Avengers? This guide explores the origins of One World Under Doom, tracing the key milestones that shaped this saga.
Table of Content
Image: ensigame.com
While the 1987 graphic novel by David Michelini and Bob Hall may come to mind, it’s not essential reading. Dr. Doom’s seizure of the Silver Surfer’s cosmic power in Fantastic Four #57 wasn’t his first global conquest, but Emperor Doom vividly captures the vision of a world under his rule.
Its strength lies in its compelling, no-nonsense premise.
Image: ensigame.com
In Doom 2099, Warren Ellis and Pat Broderick depict a future where Doom nearly conquers America. This 90s-inspired series delivers bold lines like, “America threatens the planet’s survival.”
“I’ll save the world by safeguarding America,” Doom declares. It’s a standout in Marvel 2099 and a testament to Doom’s most audacious feats.
Image: ensigame.com
Doom’s grandest conquests shine in Fantastic Four, Jonathan Hickman’s The Avengers, and 2015’s Secret Wars. This saga exemplifies Doom’s relentless quest for power and immortality, framed as benevolent governance.
Doom reshaped the Marvel universe in his image, marrying Sue Storm, transforming Johnny Storm into Sunshine, and making Ben Grimm the Wall—choices driven by personal vendettas. It’s the ultimate exploration of Doom wielding godlike power.
Image: ensigame.com
The 2024 Vampire Invasion event by Jed McKay and Pepe Larraz sets the stage for One World Under Doom. Doctor Strange, desperate to counter the Darkhold-fueled vampirism, turns to Dr. Doom.
Doom agrees to help but demands the Sorcerer Supreme title to wield the necessary magic. Surprisingly, Doctor Strange concedes, allowing Doom to retain the title, as the world’s salvation remains incomplete.
As we await the Russo brothers and Downey Jr.’s vision in February, immerse yourself in a Marvel universe ruled by Doom alone.