While we wait for the New Avengers: One World Under Doom should blow your mind

Just when I thought I was out… Robert Downey Jr. and the Russo brothers are pulling me back in! If Marvel is to be believed, Doom's conquest will be less of a singular event (like last year's Blood Hunt) and more of an era, akin to Dark Reign. This means the Marvel universe will continue throughout most of 2025, but with Doom reigning supreme as World Emperor and Sorcerer Supreme, even leading the Superior Avengers.

Predictably, the Superior Avengers roster includes villains, but not the usual suspects. Familiar names will be worn by new characters:

• Abomination: This time, it's Kristoff, Doom's adopted son and Reed Richards' half-brother.
• Dr. Octopus: Not Caroline Trainer (Lady Octopus), but a different woman entirely.
• Ghost: A nameless woman, reminiscent of the Ant-Man version.
• Killmonger: A significantly altered iteration.
• Malekith: The Black Elves remain on Earth.
• Onslaught: Joining the ranks of the Superior Avengers.

The Superior Avengers series, a six-issue run written by Steve Fox (known for X-Men '92: House of XCII, Dark X-Men, Dead X-Men, Spider-Woman) and illustrated by Luca Maresca (X-Men: Forever, Children of the Vault), launches in April.

This isn't a completely novel concept. Norman Osborn's Dark Avengers in 2009, for instance, featured villains posing as heroes (Iron Patriot, Scorpion, Moonstone, Swordsman, Daken, Sentry, Marvel Boy, and Ares). Similarly, Hydra's Avengers in Secret Empire included the Unworthy Thor, a Zola-controlled Vision, a Chthon-controlled Scarlet Witch, Deadpool, Superior Octopus, Taskmaster, and Black Ant.

But… World Emperor? Sorcerer Supreme? Dark and Superior Avengers? How did Dr. Doom manage this monumental feat? This guide will detail the key events leading to "One World Under Doom," bringing you up to speed.

Table of Contents

• Emperor Doom
• President Doom 2099
• Secret Wars
• Blood Hunt

While Emperor Doom (1987, by David Michelinie and Bob Hall) is the obvious starting point, it's not necessarily essential reading. Though not his first globally impactful act (Doom's theft of the Silver Surfer's power in Fantastic Four #57 is a notable predecessor), Emperor Doom best encapsulates the concept of a world under Doom's absolute rule. The story's strength lies in its simple yet powerful premise.

President Doom 2099

Speaking of Doom's global dominance, Doom 2099 (by Warren Ellis and Pat Broderick) depicts a future where Doom nearly conquers America. This 90s-era story features memorable lines like, "America is the greatest threat to the planet," and "I'll save the world by protecting America." It's a highlight of Marvel 2099 and showcases one of Doom's most impressive historical achievements.

Secret Wars

Mentioning "greatest conquests"? For a God-Emperor, what's an emperor or president? Fans will point to Doom's pivotal role in Fantastic Four, Jonathan Hickman's Avengers, and 2015's Secret Wars. This exemplifies Doom's relentless pursuit of immortality and power, all under the guise of benevolent governance. Doom, naturally, saves the day in his own way, with decisions—like marrying Sue Storm, transforming Johnny Storm into Sunshine, and establishing Ben Grimm as the Wall—driven by his personal grievances. This remains my favorite portrayal of Doom wielding the power of the entire Marvel universe.

Blood Hunt

The most crucial link to "One World Under Doom" is Jed McKay and Pepe Larraz's 2024 Vampire Invasion event. Dr. Strange, in a desperate attempt to end the Darkhold-fueled vampire plague, turns to Dr. Doom. Doom, in exchange for saving the world, demands the mantle of Sorcerer Supreme. Surprisingly, Doom retains this power even after the crisis, as Dr. Strange agrees the world isn't completely saved.

So, while we await the Russo/Downey Jr. vision (due in February), let's delve into a world ruled by none other than Doctor Doom.