The “From The Ashes” era of the X-Men was intended to bring Marvel’s mutants back to their core principles, and Geoffrey Thorne’s new X-Force series delivers on that promise. Admittedly, I am one of those X-fans who was weary of dropping the world-building from the Krakoan era for a simplified superhero experience, but Thorne deftly balances a classic X-Men vibe with new twists to beloved characters with a healthy dose of breakneck action. X-Force by Geoffrey Thorne Vol. 1: Fractures keeps true to its namesake, weaving engaging storytelling elements into a book that feels nostalgic and forward-thinking, appealing to longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Marvel
Collecting the first 5 issues of the new X-Force series, this trade begins with Forge realizing the world is in jeopardy and assembles a team of mutant specialists to address a series of dangerous “fractures.” He recruits Sage, Rachel Summers, Betsy Braddock, Surge, and the powerful newcomer Tank, bringing their unique talents and strong personalities to the table. Their missions bring them to Wakanda and Cambodia, where they battle everything from rampaging monsters to unexpected foes like a mysterious Black Panther impostor and the dimension-warping Nuklo. Even the Avengers enter the fray, leading to a tense standoff before their eventual team-up.
Writer Geoffrey Thorne charts a brisk, action-driven course that highlights both the strengths of this mutant roster while giving Forge a central role. The plot is action packed, taking advantage of the monthly issue format by giving the team a new location in almost every chapter, all while maintaining tension. Some of the group dynamics feel intentionally rough around the edges, reflecting a team that is still getting used to one another’s methods and personalities. While there’s plenty of banter (especially when you throw in guest stars like Deadpool), it occasionally overshadows deeper character exploration. With that note in mind, I appreciated how the story’s momentum never really flags, and the conclusion teases larger ramifications in future arcs.
Marvel
Marcus To’s artwork provides fluid choreography, especially in the frequent battle sequences, and he capably showcases each character’s distinctive power set. Bold lines and well-placed details give each action scene a kinetic, larger-than-life feel without overwhelming the page. Fans of Pepe Larraz should find a lot to enjoy in To’s very pleasing line work. The coloring is also very strong, particularly when used to animate visual powers like Surge’s electric aura or Rachel’s psionic. Even the team’s coordinated red-and-black costumes manage to strike an individual style for each member, and the visual balance between intense fights and quieter character moments.
For fans of mutant soap-opera action, X-Force by Geoffrey Thorne Vol. 1: Fractures is a strong first arc and has a lot of promise. Thorne and To establish a compelling foundation setting the stage for promised arcs to come. With its blend of globe-trotting adventure and classic X-Men drama, this volume leaves me eager to see how this recharged roster of X-Force continues to evolve.
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