REVIEW: ‘Doomquest’ Issue 1

Doomquest Issue 1 is published by Marvel Comics and written by Ryan North, art by Francesco Mobili, colors by Frank D’Armata, and letters by Travis Lanham.

Doctor Doom develops a new time-traveling invention, but Earth’s heroes arrive to try and stop him.

North returns to writing Doom in what feels like a standalone story. It doesn’t seem connected to the recent One World Under Doom event, which can be confusing considering how the story ended. Doom is back in power, sits on the Latverian throne, and is working on nefarious plans. It’s a fresh start, with no need for any previous knowledge of reading around the dictator or any Marvel character, for that matter. The entirety of Doomquest Issue 1 is just setting up the time-travel idea, because the device has to be built, and Doom needs to prepare.

The pacing is slow but enjoyable, because it relishes Doom’s mania and narcissism. He is there for every part of the machine’s construction, which is supposed to send him back through time. What North executes beautifully is the fact that Doom doesn’t just have this device. It has to be built, through extensive mining and effort (although not by him).

One of the surprises is just how many heroes arrive to tangle with Doom. It’s a combined assault featuring representatives from the Avengers, Fantastic Four, and the X-Men, all of whom are greeted by a selection of vicious Doombots. The fighting is intense, and there is a genuine danger for the heroes. That isn’t the last surprise within this opening chapter, as the time-traveling factor really kicks off.

Doomquest Issue 1 places Doctor Doom at the heart of every page. It rarely strays from the megalomaniac, delving into the character’s intricacies. Intricacies within such a larger-than-life, arrogant figure are intriguing because there are so many layers. This feels like a pure version of Doom. There is a lust for power, not just for him but for his tiny nation, and it’s that which inspires the quest. A very interesting note is that North places the idea in Doom’s mind because he sees Reed Richards discuss the tactic first. Doom is a brilliant mind, of course, but his ideas aren’t necessarily original.

Through narration and the dialogue surrounding him, it is clear just how much Doom needs those around him to boost his ego. They have to worship him, compliment him, beg for their lives in front of them. Hamak, his servant, has a brilliant and humorous twist, considering how much time he spends sniveling and pleading towards Doom.

Whenever North writes a comic that includes Doom and the heroes who oppose him, there is a desire to use only the classic characters. The heroes that have been around since the 1960’s (apart from Wolverine, but he’s just as prominent and iconic). It gives the comic a classic feel. The heroes know Doom better than anyone, and the enmity between Doom and Mister Fantastic may be one of the most iconic rivalries ever.

The art is glorious. Doom looks phenomenal, with Mobili only adding gorgeous detail to a magnificent design. The armor is varied, with multiple patterns and additions running down his arms. The plate armor has chain mail underneath it, with holes in the gauntlets. Then there’s the hood and cloak, which makes the man look ominous. Under the fearsome faceplate are incredibly emotive eyes. They display Doom’s envy and rage and the occasional surprise. The invention that Doom creates is absolutely huge, becoming a palace in its own right. It contains gigantic engines and corridors.

The fight between the hero coalition and the Doombots is also superb. Mobili ensures that the Doombots put up a remarkable fight. They swarm the heroes, tackling them and grappling with their bodies. They’re trying to tear them apart rather than blast them from afar. The various powers on display are terrific, too, especially when there’s a shot of all the heroes among a sea of Doombots. There is a fantastic physicality to the book, preferring hand-to-hand action over energy blasts.

The colors are also gorgeous. Green is the major shade within Doomquest Issue 1, and there is a really dark tone to this color. Doom’s cloak is a mossy green instead of a more vibrant shade. The brighter colors can be found in the energy generated by the machine he builds, as well as in the costumes and powers of the heroes who arrive in Latveria. The lettering is very clear and easy to read.

Doomquest Issue 1 is a wonderful jumping-on point. Not being connected to any major continuity allows for just about anyone to pick this book up. All the characters are standardized, and there aren’t any storylines that could deter newcomers. North’s writing of Doom is sensational, and this series feels like an excuse for him to write him again after his disappearance in the main universe. It’s also a visually gorgeous comic that will change dramatically after this opening issue.

Doomquest Issue 1 is available where comics are sold.