The return of the X-Men post-Krakoa was something I approached with cautious optimism. After reading the first three issues of X-Men Vol 7 by Jed MacKay, with art by Ryan Stegman, it’s clear that this series is diving headfirst into the complexities and scars left by the Krakoan era. This isn’t just another superhero comic; it’s a layered exploration of power dynamics, trauma, and the precarious position mutants find themselves in once again.
Recap: Issue 1
The long-awaited relaunch of the X-Men begins with a mix of familiarity and a new edge. Issue 1 thrusts us back into a world that again hates and fears mutants, with Cyclops leading a new team on a rescue mission. While a classic X-Men trope, this mission is tinged with the uncertainty and trauma left over from Krakoa. Cyclops and his team—Magik, Juggernaut, Kid Omega, Beast, Psylocke, Temper, and Magneto—navigate a less stable and hostile world.
This issue mixes familiar story elements with new twists, such as the sudden manifestation of mutant abilities in adults rather than adolescents. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of mutant genetics and the potential consequences of these changes. The character interactions are where MacKay truly shines, giving us a glimpse into the emotional and psychological scars that the Krakoan era has left on these heroes.
Recap: Issue 2
Issue 2 builds on this foundation, delving deeper into the dynamics within the team. The new mutant, Ben, whose X-Gene has activated in adulthood, presents a unique challenge. An alien invasion complicates the team’s mission to secure him, adding tension and urgency to the story. The banter and relationships between characters like Magik, Juggernaut, and Kid Omega continue to develop, giving the series a lively, engaging rhythm.
The artwork in Issue 2 continues to impress, with dynamic action scenes and detailed character designs that evoke the classic X-Men feel while pushing the narrative forward. The introduction of adult mutant manifestations raises intriguing questions about the future of mutantkind, adding a fresh twist to the series’ overarching plot.
Recap: Issue 3
By Issue 3, the series hits its stride. The focus shifts back to Cyclops and his ongoing struggle to protect mutants in a hostile world. His legal battle with the U.S. government following the Krakoan genocide casts a long shadow over the narrative. Cyclops’ conversation with Agent Lundqvist showcases his raw emotion and determination to safeguard his people, even if it means pushing back hard against the government he once fought to protect. There’s also some lovely shade thrown at his brother and X-Factor, which I am sure will cause tension as we continue.
The issue also continues to flesh out the team dynamics, with Magik and Juggernaut becoming a formidable duo and Temper stepping up as a significant force within the team. Magneto’s role remains shrouded in mystery, adding an element of suspense to the story. The art by Stegman, Mayer, and Garcia complements the narrative perfectly with powerful visuals that convey both the intensity of the action and the emotional weight of the story.
What’s Working with This Series
The standout feature of X-Men Vol 7 so far is its handling of the aftermath of the Krakoan era. MacKay doesn’t shy away from exploring this period’s trauma and scars on the mutants, particularly Cyclops. His portrayal of Scott as a leader on the edge, struggling to keep everything together while grappling with the PTSD of his kidnapping and torture by Orchis, is compelling and deeply relatable. The new angle of adult mutant manifestations adds a fresh layer of intrigue, challenging the characters and readers alike to reconsider what they know about mutant genetics.
The team dynamics are another highlight. The characters’ relationships, rivalries, and underlying tensions make for an engaging read. MacKay clearly understands these characters, and he uses this understanding to explore their powers and emotional and psychological complexities.
The art throughout the series has been consistently strong, with Stegman’s work capturing the X-Men’s essence while bringing something new. The action scenes are thrilling, and the quieter moments are handled carefully, allowing the story’s emotional depth to shine through.
What’s a Miss for Me
While there’s a lot to love about this series, it’s not without its shortcomings. The first two issues felt somewhat disjointed, with the plot taking a backseat to character interactions. While I appreciated the focus on building relationships and setting the stage for future conflicts, I wanted more clarity and direction in the narrative. The reliance on familiar tropes in the first issue felt a bit too safe, lacking the boldness that I hoped would define this new era of the X-Men.
Magneto’s role in the series also feels underdeveloped. While the mystery surrounding him is intriguing, his presence has been more ominous than impactful – and I am starting to wonder if it even is Magneto at all. I hope future issues will delve deeper into his character and motivations as he remains one of the most compelling figures in the X-Men universe.
Where I Think This Is All Going
Looking ahead, there are several directions that X-Men Vol 7 could take, and based on what we’ve seen so far, I think we’re in for a series that will challenge our expectations of these characters and their world. The adult onset of mutant powers is a game-changer, and I believe it will be a central theme moving forward. This could lead to new conflicts within the mutant community and between mutants and humanity as governments and rogue factions race to weaponize this latest development.
Cyclops’ struggle to protect his people while dealing with the trauma of the Krakoan genocide will likely push him to make increasingly difficult and morally complex decisions. The tension between his desire for peace and the reality of a world that continues to fear and hate mutants could lead to a dramatic shift in his character—one that might see him adopting more of Magneto’s hardline stance if pushed too far.
I also suspect that Magneto’s mysterious role in the team will come to the forefront, potentially revealing a hidden agenda that could unify or fracture the team. The exploration of government conspiracies and the exploitation of mutant genetics hints at a larger, more sinister plot that could threaten the very existence of mutantkind.
As the series progresses, I anticipate these elements will converge, leading to a climactic conflict that will redefine the X-Men again. This “From the Ashes” saga seems poised to be pivotal in the X-Men’s history, testing their resilience and unity as never before.
Rating: Beta Level Entertainment
X-Men Vol 7 is off to a strong start despite some initial hiccups. The series can potentially explore new and exciting territory regarding character development and overarching plot. As a Black, queer immigrant, I see a lot of my own experiences reflected in these stories of resilience, trauma, and the fight for survival. This is a series that I’ll be following closely, and I can’t wait to see where it goes next.
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