MARVEL LEGACY

released OUT NOW! Publisher Marvel Comics Writer Jason aaron Artists Various

The Marvel/DC rivalry has recently entered a new phase, with Marvel going through a shaky patch while DC is on an upswing thanks to their successful Rebirth relaunch. Marvel’s latest single-issue special is a sprawling teaser for what’s coming in their superhero universe, but also feels like a direct response to last year’s DC Rebirth special, trying to capture a blend of old-school thrills and fresh shocks.

Unfortunately, while DC Rebirth had two attentiongrabbing anchors – the return of “Kid Flash” Wally West and the start of a controversial Watchmen crossover – Marvel Legacy is less focused and lacks any true surprises.

Writer Jason Aaron does his best to string together a series of loosely connected set-pieces that hint at upcoming Marvel storylines, and some are entertaining enough by themselves, especially the debut of a mythical 1,000,000 BC version of the Avengers.

Much of this, however, feels like Marvel going out of their way to reassure ageing comic book fans that all their old favourites are coming back (including, in the least-shocking reveal ever, a resurrection for Wolverine). Marvel Legacy isn’t without its fun moments, but does gives the worrying impression that the House of Ideas is leaning too heavily on nostalgia rather than trying something genuinely new. Saxon Bullock