Review: ‘Ultimate Universe’ #1

I probably loved Hickman’s Ultimate Invasion more than most and this exactly the type of follow-up I was hoping for. There was less space to tell expand the story in this one-off, but Hickman used every last bit of this issue to keep the momentum going for the new universe that is set to further expand in the coming months. This issue oozed with elements of grandeur — everything felt important. Hickman loves laying breadcrumbs to revert back to months down the line and I found myself trying to figure out where those might be hidden in this issue.

In terms of characters, I loved the addition of Thor’s personality to the duo of Tony’s Iron Lad & Reed’s Doom. They play off each other really well and each of them add a unique perspective to the mix. This version of Thor has the immediate gravitas of a classic God of Thunder and was equally matched with an impressive design to add to his intensity. One area where Hickman’s pacing felt rushed was when Tony & Reed were convincing Thor & Sif about Maker’s scheme. You have to suspend disbelief to assume these characters would blindly trust two strangers they’ve just met, but it was necessary plot advancement which didn’t spoil the ultimate outcome.

I also really enjoyed all of the nods and winks to this universe’s version of superheroes we’ll be meeting in the upcoming series, including the radioactive spider which will come into play in Hickman’s own Ultimate Spider-Man series and a shadowy panel of teasing Black Panther ahead of Bryan Hill’s series. Add in the tease of Peach Momoko’s Ultimate X-Men as a backup story and I am so ready to dive deeper into this new universe and all the tension and drama that is bound to come with it.

The lack of Bryan Hitch’s cinematographic-style wide-screen panels were noticeable, but Stefano Caselli’s designs are more than serviceable in matching Hickman’s grandiose story. As mentioned already, his design for Thor specifically was impressive.

Hickman’s task of launching Marvel’s new Ultimate universe couldn’t be off to a more intriguing start. And if this special issue is any indication on what we can expect from Marvel’s new Ultimate universe, we’re in for a real treat. Editor Will Moss has shown that he’s capable of crafting a multi-series arc in the past and let’s hope he’s up for the task again.

Rating: 10/10