Marvel Comics’ 2099 characters are an interesting lot, largely because they seem to pop up randomly before being put away for months and even years. Enter Doom 2099: Rage of Doom #1, carrying forward the story from the Doomed 2099 one-shot from eight months ago. That’s a big gap, and yet it’s a fun way to keep tabs on a character who likely can’t sustain an ongoing series.
Frank Tieri returns to write this follow-up, with art by Von Randal, in what can only be described as a connecting issue to something more. It’s unclear if we’ll need to wait another eight months for the next chapter, but the gap doesn’t take away from the morsel of story Doom 2099 gets here.
Established in Doomed 2099, this issue reminds us why Doctor Doom went back in time to stop Doctor Doom from becoming the Sorcerer Supreme back during One World Under Doom. This time, however, we get to see what Doom did, rather than just being told. The first six pages show the events, with some great, detailed art by Randal, and crowded scenes with tons of heroes. It’s a reminder of what he’s capable of, and how Doom 2099 lives with a heavy weight on his shoulders.
Always iconic looking, with so many superheroes standing around.
Credit: Marvel
Now that Doom is the last living thing on Earth and only has Doombots to keep him company, he seeks to rebuild his time platform to try again to fix his past mistake. By his side is a Doombot that resembles Valeria, who has a slightly creepy vibe, but he loves her all the same. Doom isn’t deluded, though, and knows he’s just a robot.
From there, Tieri brings in Ultron, who is the only creature able to help him fix his time machine. It’s unclear why, since Doctor Doom tends to do things on his own, but it adds a familiar villain into the mix. This, of course, leads to a fight, and a well-drawn one at that.
Randal does a great job with the broody art, a cool Ultron design to close the book, and plenty of detail in mechanical devices and interiors. The destruction Doom brings in the opening flashback is also excellent, with event-caliber art on display.
Ultimately, this issue is light on story, with events taking place over a day or so, and the Ultron battle is relegated to five pages. Doom’s persona is never probed or explored, with the character mostly stoic and determined. While it’s entertaining to see where he ends up, you’re mostly waiting for something to happen.
Doom 2099: Rage of Doom #1 looks great and carries an intriguing premise, but it operates more as a bridge than a destination. The issue checks in on Doom’s bleak status quo and teases bigger things ahead, yet it rarely digs into what makes this version of the character tick. There is enough here to keep fans curious, though the long gaps between chapters may test that patience.
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