In addition to launching a new story arc with “Anomaly”, X-Men #31 shifts the focus from Cyclops’ strike team to the newly formed “Science Team” led by Beast. This team, consisting of Magneto, Xorn, Animalia, Quentin Quire, and Ben Liu, is investigating a potential mutant that’s emerged in Canada. Little do they know that said mutant is Schwarzschild, one of 3K’s man-made mutants who was betrayed by the Dark Beast. And the Science Team isn’t the only entity that’s interested in Schwarzschild…
True to its name, the Science Team features mutants whose capabilities are best used in a scientific capacity. Magneto and Xorn’s respective masteries of magnetism and gravity allow them to detect any unusual activity in the atmosphere. Animalia can shift between animal forms, gaining the senses and stamina to navigate difficult terrain. Quentin’s telepathy allows him to sense any incoming danger. And of course there’s Beast, who’s a brilliant scientist in addition to having super strength and agility. I like that Jed MacKay put actual thought into which mutants would work best on a science team, while also giving more attention to some mutants who haven’t had much focus.
MacKay also continues to touch on dangling plot threads, particularly when it comes to Magneto and Beast. In the case of Magneto, he’s still reeling from the fact that the illness that affected his powers is a byproduct of the Age of Revelation, meaning that someone could have deliberately altered time to take him off the board. Beast, on the other hand, is trying to conduct his investigation yet runs into obstacle after obstacle, one of which is the growing attraction between him and Amalia. It’s the perfect mix of drama and superheroics that makes the X-Men worth reading.
Marvel
X-Men #31 also marks Tony Daniel’s return to interiors, and his work has never looked better. Whether it’s Beast’s thick blue fur, Magneto’s piercing gaze, or the various rivets and plates that make up Xorn’s helmet, Daniel has a great eye for detail. That detail is also backed up by inker Mark Morales, whose lines add a fluid sense of movement. One of the best moments of Daniel and Morales working in tandem comes when Quentin is hit with the psychic equivalent of a land mine; the young psychic’s body freezes up and convulses before he tumbles to the ground. Given how haughty Quentin tends to act, this is a moment that comes off as a big surprise.
Daniel’s work also shines thanks to the colors of Fer Sifuentes-Sijo, who brings the perfect mix of colors to the table. There’s the vibrant blue of Beast’s fur, the regal red and purple of Magneto’s attire including his trademark helmet, and the black and yellow of certain X-Men’s uniforms. Quentin also remains a standout, thanks to the bright purple vibes of his hair, his clothes, and his psychic energy. All of this stands out against the snowy white backdrop of the Canadian mountains, making for an eye-catching tableau.
X-Men #31 successfully shifts gears as it launches a new story arc, choosing to put the focus on some of its more underrated members. Here’s hoping that MacKay and company continue this trend, since the best X-Books spread the love to every team member.
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