In 2025, the Marvel Universe is defined by one name: Doom. February marks the launch of "One World Under Doom," a massive crossover event. Doctor Doom, the new Sorcerer Supreme, claims global dominion. This storyline unfolds in Ryan North and R.B. Silva's "One World Under Doom" miniseries and numerous tie-ins. 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 Doctor 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 arc.

Thunderbolts: Doomstrike #3 Exclusive Preview Gallery

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Is Bucky Barnes Responsible for Emperor Doom?

"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" continues the narrative from the 2023 "Thunderbolts" relaunch by Kelly and Lanzing. Bucky Barnes leads a new team tasked with confronting major Marvel villains. Their victories, however, inadvertently pave Doom's path to power.

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

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.

"Planning the sequel, we learned about 'One World Under Doom'," Kelly states. "Ryan North's storyline uses Bucky's manipulation of Doom as a pivotal event in Victor's rise. This 'Thunderbolts' mission isn't just a fight against evil; it's a judgment of Bucky's choices. 'Doomstrike' offers Bucky redemption, but at a tremendous cost."

Bucky's guilt over Doom's ascension 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 always weighed him down," says Kelly. "Just as he thought he could move on, he's burdened with responsibility for Doom's rise. Doom understands this and will exploit his guilt. The weight will intensify, and even his metal arm might not save him."

Lanzing adds insights into the other Thunderbolts' motivations: Songbird acts out of loyalty and heroism, grappling with the loss of Abner Jenkins; Black Widow prioritizes Bucky's safety; Sharon Carter combats fascism; U.S. 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, creating a clash with Bucky's team.

Kelly highlights the return of the original Thunderbolts, stating, "It's an honor to revisit these characters and their core dilemma: is redemption possible for villains?"

Lanzing explains, "Doom, not Bucky, controls the Thunderbolts. In Doom's world, heroes are under his control, forming his 'Fulgar Victoris.' Their motives and Bucky's status as a target are key questions."

Songbird's central role is highlighted; torn between loyalty to her former comrades and Bucky's cause.

Kelly says, "Melissa's return is stylish and determined. But her history with the 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 states, "This is our final Bucky Barnes story for now. It's the 'Revolution Saga,' beginning in 'Devil's Reign: Winter Soldier,' exploding in 'Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty,' motivating 'Captain America: Cold War,' and culminating in 'Thunderbolts: Worldstrike.' Bucky's discovered his origins, clashed with his friend, found love, and embraced a new identity. This is the grand finale."

The connection between "Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" and the May 2025 "Thunderbolts" film is noted.

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

"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #1 releases February 19, 2025. For more on the Marvel Universe's future, check out Marvel's 2025 plans and our most anticipated comics of 2025.