The Ultimate Universe was introduced in the early 2000s and put a contemporary spin on characters like Spider-Man, the X-Men, and The Avengers (who were renamed The Ultimates). Much of what we saw in those comics inspired the MCU, but the line eventually fell apart.
Marvel Comics previously announced that a new Ultimate Universe will spin out of the pages of its Ultimate Invasion series, with Jonathan Hickman and artist Bryan Hitch's new universe se to "revolutionize the world outside your window."
After the Maker's desperate attempt to restore the Ultimate Universe unleashes massive, unintended consequences, a group of Marvel's heroes are caught in a war between timelines. As universes collide, the foundation of a new line of Ultimate Comics is built, something we saw in this week's epic finale (you can find out exactly what happened by clicking here).
The saga continues in November's Ultimate Universe #1 where Hickman will team up with Stefano Caselli to lay the groundwork for a new line of Ultimate Comics. In the extra-sized foundational one-shot, enter a new age of Ultimate storytelling filled with bold takes on iconic Marvel characters and special previews of upcoming Ultimate titles, including the recently revealed Ultimate Spider-Man and more.
"What made the Ultimate Universe originally really interesting was that it was a reflection of the world outside your window, in the moment that you were living in. What does it look like in the world we’re living in now?" Hickman says. "It’s kind of shocking how much the world has changed in that period of time. The idea of what it would be like to see the genesis of Super Heroes in a brand new world is a really fascinating exercise."
A first look at Hitch's new main cover for the issue and some interior artwork has been released today, showcasing what appears to be Earth-6160's Avengers/Ultimates.
As you can see, we have Captain America, Thor, Sif, Reed Richards/Doctor Doom, and Iron Man...or should that be Kang? Tony Stark is destined to become Kang the Conqueror, explaining why his armour has some familiar markings on its face plate.
We're very intrigued to see where all this is heading, especially with Hickman calling the shots. Like the previous Ultimate comics, these titles will boast a unique look and that's also showcased on Hitch's gorgeous cover art.
ULTIMATE UNIVERSE #1
Written by JONATHAN HICKMAN
Art by STEFANO CASELLI
Colors by DAVID CURIEL
Cover by BRYAN HITCH
On Sale 11/1