Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points!
For this review, the Children of the Atom have blazed back from Krakoa in a monster way. Scott Summers leads a new team in Alaska. The roster is a bit eclectic but that always makes for the best line-ups. Even with some new faces, the threats remain the same. Their current challenge is a familiar one that Scott and company know all too well.
X-MEN #3 (2024) by Jed MacKay, Ryan Stegman, J. P. Mayer, Livesay, Marte Gracia and Clayton Cowles sees Scott Summers vs. The United States Of America!
Let’s not waste any longer & dive into the latest chapter!
X-MEN #3 (2024) by Jed MacKay, Ryan Stegman, J. P. Mayer, Livesay, Marte Gracia and Clayton Cowles (Marvel Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
MacKay brings out the best and worst of Scott Summers for this chapter. Cyclops has always been a polarizing figure. Over the years, he has transitioned from loyal soldier of Xavier to a young Magneto. The writing sets his character come out to face Agent Lundqvist. Their confrontation covers much ground. It backs quite the punch with some notable jabs before landing its’ knockout blow.
The rest of the team get their fleeting moments of time. Magneto and Temper’s conversation unveils a building conflict of opinions. While some mutants may have loved Krakoa, it’s easy to forget there are some that hated that time. Showcasing this notion builds up Temper when on page. However, this issue belongs to Mr. Summers. The bold declaration made comes with a heavy cost. MacKay exposes a rare glimpse of Summers in the closing panel. This could lead into some new avenues along with the more traditional heroics displayed thus far.
Stegman and the art team set a solid pace for Summers and Lundqvist’s meeting. The casual back and forth with the half panel builds up the tense situation. Readers watch as the two play their game of one-upmanship. Summers’ anger of events jump off the pages with big panels. Its’ only a few moments but nails its’ landing.
The rest of the team have some traditional superhero action here as well. A full page panel showing the team linked up and rolling swings their story into new territory. It’s capped out with Temper getting a full page splash bringing the house down. This is all before turning panels back over to Cyclops. With the parting shot, the weight of the world is felt crashing on Scott’s shoulders. It’s a fitting end and new start of the elder X-Man’s new stat quo.
FINAL POINT: 8.3
The world of Scott Summers comes front and center in this latest X chapter. MacKay drives the anger and purpose in Scott’s voice with solid writing. Stegman and the art team mix in loud action with the dramatic reactions of simple diner talk. Things are moving fast here so don’t miss out!
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