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 more of an era, akin to Dark Reign, rather than a one-off event like last year's Blood Hunt. This means the Marvel Universe will continue throughout most of 2025, but with a twist: Dr. Doom will reign supreme as World Emperor, Sorcerer Supreme, and the leader of the Superior Avengers.

As you might expect, the Superior Avengers will feature villains, but with a twist. Familiar names will be donned by new characters:

• Abomination: Kristoff, Doom's adopted son and also Reed Richards' half-brother.
• Dr. Octopus: A new female character, not Caroline Trainer (Lady Octopus).
• Ghost: A nameless woman from the Ant-Man series.
• Killmonger: A new version, not the usual one.
• Malekith: Black Elves will remain on Earth.
• Onslaught: A new take on this powerful entity.

The Superior Avengers series, a 6-issue run, will be penned by Steve Fox, known for his work on X-Men '92: House of XCII, Dark X-Men, Dead X-Men, and Spider-Woman. Luca Maresca, acclaimed for X-Men: Forever and Children of the Vault, will provide the art. The series is set to launch in April.

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The concept of villains masquerading as heroes isn't new. For instance, in the 2009 Dark Avengers series, Norman Osborn assembled a team of sub-villains to replace the Avengers, featuring characters like Iron Patriot, Scorpion (posing as Spider-Man), Moonstone (as Ms. Marvel), Swordsman (as Hawkeye), Daken (as Wolverine), Sentry, Marvel Boy, and Ares. Similarly, during the Secret Empire event, Hydra formed its own Avengers team, including the unworthy Thor, Vision (controlled by Arnim Zola), Scarlet Witch (controlled by Chthon), Deadpool, Superior Octopus, Taskmaster, and Black Ant.

But how did Dr. Doom achieve such monumental power? Let's explore the stepping stones that led to One World Under Doom.

Table of Contents:

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

Emperor Doom

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While the 1987 graphic novel by David Michelinie and Bob Hall might come to mind, it's not essential reading for understanding Doom's global domination. However, Doom's theft of the Silver Surfer's cosmic power in Fantastic Four #57 showcases his ambition on a grand scale. Emperor Doom encapsulates the idea of a world ruled by Doom, driven by a straightforward and powerful premise.

President Doom 2099

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In the Doom 2099 series by Warren Ellis and Pat Broderick, Doom nearly conquers America, proclaiming, "America is the greatest threat to the planet." His goal to "save the world by protecting America" highlights one of Doom's most audacious exploits and is a standout in the Marvel 2099 universe.

Secret Wars

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When discussing Doom's greatest conquests, his role in Jonathan Hickman's The Avengers and the 2015 Secret Wars event cannot be overlooked. As God-Emperor, Doom's pursuit of immortality and power in the name of good governance is epitomized. His actions, such as marrying Sue Storm, transforming Johnny Storm into Sunshine, and establishing Ben Grimm as the Wall, reflect his personal vendettas. This story is a favorite for showcasing what Doom would do with ultimate power.

Blood Hunt

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The most significant continuity leading to One World Under Doom is the 2024 Vampire Invasion event by Jed McKay and Pepe Larraz. As vampirism spreads, fueled by the Darkhold, Doctor Strange turns to Dr. Doom for help. Doom insists on becoming Sorcerer Supreme to wield the necessary magic, and even after saving the world, he retains the title, as Dr. Strange agrees that the world could be saved more thoroughly.

As we await the concepts, ideas, and final script from Robert Downey Jr. and the Russo brothers in February, let's delve into a world that belongs to none other than Doom alone.