REVIEW: ‘Avengers’ Issue #18

Avengers #18 is published by Marvel Comics, written by Jed MacKay, art by Valerio Schiti, colors by Bryan Valenza, and letters by Cory Petit. A bullet in the shape of Hyperion hurtles towards Earth, forcing the Avengers to think of doomsday protocols.

Avengers #18 is working against a countdown. It will be around five hours before Hyperion strikes Earth. Perhaps the most powerful superhero in the world is speeding across space, and what could happen if he hits means that something drastic has to happen. Despite the danger, the pacing isn’t moving at breakneck speed. The Avengers move across the world, making plans and calling in favors. But there is also that ticking clock and no idea where Hyperion is.

The story spreads across the Marvel Universe, tapping into MacKay’s other series. Both the X-Men and Doctor Strange are called upon for help. However, other elements are also involved in both the past and present. The issue provides closure for an open wound following the Heroes Reborn event. Avengers #18 excels at feeling complete and expansive while maintaining the situation’s drama. The world is ending due to one man’s pain, so the difference in scale is phenomenal. Much of the issue appears straightforward, but a twist at the end is more profound and rewarding.

The dialogue among the characters is brilliant, with a dark tone that matches the magnitude of Avengers #18. It’s a serious issue with horrifying ramifications. The Avengers realize that Hyperion wants to be killed, so they are forcing their hand. Even as they create a gadget to try and defeat him, the team has no pride or confidence. To end someone’s life, even in extreme circumstances, is the last thing any of them want.

This chapter also incorporates Storm into the team more, giving her space to demonstrate why her place is warranted. Conversations with Cyclops make it clear why she had gone down the road of becoming an Avenger, not an X-Men. MacKay writing so many books means he knows these characters and their journeys, controlling all sides and the future of the Marvel Universe.

The art is brilliant in Avengers #18. Schiti is a fantastic artist, especially in cosmic and high-stakes comics. The locations and characters are phenomenal, with a tour of many of the most essential locations, old and new. Asgard and the Sanctum Sanctorum are ancient places, and their history and mystery can be seen in the details. But both the big teams have moved into new digs. The Avengers reside above Earth in the Impossible City, while the X-Men have moved into a factory once used to build Sentinels.

The Impossible City, in particular, is so expansive that artists can take enormous license with it, adding their spin to the vast space. The characters are also fantastic. This book does not feature much action but builds towards the final impact. This emphasizes the use of facial expressions and body language to raise tension.

Despite the immense stakes in Avengers #18, there are still smiles and warmth between the characters that serve as reminders of their history and connections. And away from Earth but coming towards it is Hyperion. Once a hero, he is designed to look like someone who would protect. But here, he looks dangerous and terrifying, radiating immense power.

The colors are gorgeous and profound. There are many vibrant superheroes, and the brightness of their costumes can be seen in every panel. The magic glows with stunning precision, while there are also extensive shadows and darkness. This is in both locations, invoking mystery and demonstrating the emptiness of space. The lettering is clear and substantial, capturing the severity of the series.

Mighty heroes like Hyperion and the Sentry, which are often an attempt to replicate Superman, have frequently struggled to work within the Marvel Universe because the rest of the world is too fragile. But Avengers #18 flips that concept on its head, putting the world’s fragility at the mercy of Hyperion’s power.

Avengers #18 races against time with restraint. It doesn’t rush to tell this story; it isn’t a frantic fight. That can’t be done against someone like Hyperion, so instead, the book requires planning and precision. It’s an issue that leans on collaboration across the titles, including all of the horses in MacKay’s stable and many other attributes.

Avengers #18 is available now wherever comics are sold.