It’s all led to this: Xenomorphs reach Earth! The perfect organism meets a planet of superhumans. Who will be first to fall? Aliens vs. Avengers #1 cuts loose in this four-part epic that brings together the world of the Avengers and Aliens.

With Marvel and Fox sharing the same parent company it was only a matter of time before we saw Aliens or Predators taking on characters from the Marvel universe. We’ve seen a Predator hunt Marvel heroes but now Aliens get the spotlight as they take on Earth’s Mightiest heroes. The result is a fun debut that takes us into the future where humanity makes its last stand against a world overrun of xenomorphs.

Aliens vs. Avengers #1 kicks things off in space where Black Panther leads the space faction of Wakanda and capture a ship of individuals plotting to infect worlds with xenomorphs. Jonathan Hickman keeps things familiar but different as it becomes clear this isn’t the T’challa of today but instead we’re well into the future. It’s a solid use of showing and not telling as it’s a bit of a surprise and really sets up what to expect when the focus turns to Earth.

Aliens vs. Avengers #1 is interesting in how much focus on the lead up and how things got the way they are. Hickman delivers a logical explanation of how an attack like this would work and how it’d be difficult to stop. The heroes, and the world, feels worn, and the cause, one of futility. But, when it comes to Marvel heroes, there’s always hope. What isn’t explained is why these heroes and others didn’t just leave the planet when it was clear the battle was lost. While there’s tons of other details, this is an odd one to leave out.

Esad Ribic‘s art is fantastic as expected. With color by Ive Svorcina and lettering by Cory Petit, the art delivers the weary and worn vibe of the rest of the series. The characters all look familiar, but older and a bit more rugged. This is a solid aging and far more than familiar characters with grey hair and some wrinkles. Captain Marvel’s costume and body language scream aging in an interesting way.

Aliens vs. Avengers #1 is a nice start to the miniseries. It addresses the “how” and “why” of it all and teases so much else to explore. There’s lots to ponder and enjoy from this single issue.

Story: Jonathan Hickman Art: Esad Ribic
Color: Ive Svorcina Letterer: Cory Petit
Story: 7.75 Art: 8.0 Overall: 7.75 Recommendation: Read

Marvel provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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Purchase: Apotheosis Comics – Zeus Comics – Kindle