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 key tie-in is "Thunderbolts: Doomstrike," by Collin Kelly, Jackson Lanzing, and Tommaso Bianchi.

IGN presents an exclusive preview of "Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #3 (April release). Marvel's solicitation hints at an explosive conflict: "Bucky, Songbird, Sharon Carter, and the Midnight Angels target Doom's vibranium supply, only to face…the Thunderbolts! Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts!"

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

Thunderbolts: Doomstrike #3 Exclusive Preview Gallery

8 Images

Is Bucky Barnes Responsible for Emperor Doom?

"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" builds upon Kelly and Lanzing's 2023 "Thunderbolts" relaunch. Bucky Barnes leads a team tasked with confronting major Marvel villains. Their success, however, inadvertently paves the path for Doom's rise.

Lanzing explains, "Bucky neutralized the Red Skull, Kingpin's finances, and the American Kaiju. This destabilized Hydra, the criminal underworld, and US government defenses—actions intended to improve global safety. Ironically, he empowered Victor Von Doom, used as a tool to eliminate the Red Skull. One doesn't weaponize Doom without consequences."

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

"Planning the sequel, we learned of the new Marvel Universe status quo: 'One World Under Doom'," Kelly states. "Ryan North's work cleverly utilized Bucky's manipulation of Doom as a catalyst for his ascension. This 'Thunderbolts' mission became a judgment of Bucky's choices. 'Doomstrike' offers Bucky redemption, but at a tremendous cost."

Bucky's guilt over Doom's rise is central to "Doomstrike." Kelly notes that guilt has been a constant in Bucky's narrative since his resurrection as the Winter Soldier.

"Bucky's guilt, from his Winter Soldier past or Outer Circle missions, has weighed heavily on him," Kelly says. "Just when he thought he'd overcome it, he's burdened with responsibility for Doom's power. Doom understands this and will exploit his guilt. After issue #1, that burden will intensify exponentially."

Lanzing adds context to the other Thunderbolts' motivations: Songbird acts out of loyalty and heroism, but also grief; Black Widow prioritizes Bucky's safety; Sharon Carter combats fascism; US Agent is disillusioned; and Ghost Rider '44, an old friend, re-enters the fray. Other 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

"Doomstrike" features the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts, most of whom now serve Emperor Doom. The clash between Bucky's team and Doom's is inevitable.

Kelly highlights the return of the original Thunderbolts, exploring the theme of redemption for villains. Lanzing reveals that Doom, not Bucky, controls this iteration of the Thunderbolts, highlighting their subservience.

Songbird's position is crucial, torn between her former comrades and Bucky. Kelly describes her return as enthusiastic, but her loyalty will be severely tested.

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, "This is our final Bucky Barnes story for now. It's the 'Revolution Saga,' beginning with 'Devil's Reign: Winter Soldier,' exploding in 'Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty,' driving 'Captain America: Cold War,' and culminating in 'Thunderbolts: Worldstrike' and 'Doomstrike.' It's a complete story arc, and fans of our previous work shouldn't miss this."

The timing of "Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" coincides with the May release of the "Thunderbolts" movie. Kelly and Lanzing aim to attract MCU viewers, highlighting familiar elements and connections to the MCU's Doom.

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

One World Under DoomBatman: Hush 2Teenage Mutant Ninja TurtlesDeadpool/WolverineThe new Absolute booksStar Wars: Legacy of VaderStar Trek: Lore WarInvincible: Battle BeastUltimate WolverineOther (let us know in the comments)

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