Marvel News & Views 9.15.03
Posted by Jim Trabold on 09.15.2003
Iron Man news, plus...What If Jim ran Marvel?!
Welcome again readers. It’s the Monday article. We’ve got few news pieces of interest and a feature of the week.
IRON MAN #73
A surprising new era begins for Iron Man this fall when the new creative team of writer John Jackson Miller and artist Jorge Lucas (Mystique) takeover the monthly series beginning with October's IRON MAN #73, launching abrand new story arc and brand new series direction inspired by the techno-thriller fiction of writers like Tom Clancy.
Tired of missiles that miss their targets and planes that ARE easy targets,the United States government wants the most successful weapons designer in our military's history back. But Tony Stark gave up building weapons many years ago. Undeterred, the military is resolute to get Stark - or more accurately, his technology - back any way they can ... even if it's against Tony Stark's will.
This standoff leads to one of the most shocking developments in Stark's career, his nomination to the office of Secretary of Defense of the United States of America. Now, in addition to action-filled battles as Iron Man,Tony Stark has to face new foes, including secret factions within the Pentagon determined to defeat his nomination, the United State Congress in charge of confirming his nomination, and possibly the most ruthlessa dversary he's ever faced - the Washington, DC press corps.
Iron Man #73, the first chapter in the new story "BEST DEFENSE", goes onsale October 10th with a cover price of $2.99 and a painted cover by Joe Jusko. Retailers are reminded its Final Order Cut-off (FOC) date is Thursday, September 18th. Readers, ask your retailer to reserve you a copy before the order cut-off date.
I for one am happy to see a change here. Really. Iron Man needs some new blood and I’m not sure if this is the one the book needs yet but who knows. If Iron Man is done right the book should do way better in sales then it does now. This title could be a lot better. Iron Man is one of the best Marvel characters around and his title should be doing a lot better in sales. The fans do like this character. He just has to be done right. I’m pretty sure this writer could do a good job. Let’s hope Iron Man gets back on track.
MARVEL UNIVERSE RPG
While Marvel Comics' first entry in the Young Adult prose fiction market has produced a crossover media hit in the best-selling MARY JANE novel, Marvel's other recent new publishing category launch has been a quieter, more grassroots success. Marvel is pleased to announce that the Marvel Universe Roleplaying GAME Guide Hardcover ($19.99) - the publisher's first in-house foray into the RPG market - has gone into its third printing since itsinitial release in April 2003 and the RPG's first supplement, May's RPG Guide to the X-Men Hardcover ($19.99) has just been approved for a 2nd printing.
Although the game's success is due in part to its wide, crossover appeal to Marvel Comics readers who enjoy the character profiles and adventure briefings, along with players of previous Marvel RPGs, even more surprising has been the positive reception by not only current hardcore gamers, but also the even harder-to-please GameMasters.
"From all of the feedback we've gotten from the gaming community - emails, Internet discussion groups, and personal contacts - people of all types are loving the Marvel Universe Roleplaying Game," said Jeff Simons, who along with his partners at Q.E.D. Games, Inc. helped Marvel develop the game."There is quite a loyal, growing fan base, some of whom are very surprisingfor longtime members of the community like us.
"Most surprising are the GamesMasters. Because the game puts a lot of storytelling power into their hands, they've become some of its biggest supporters. Even GMs who never thought they'd like a diceless game are having fun playing Marvel, and have become the game's most vocal cheerleaders and more importantly - recruiters, enticing other long-time gamers who also never thought they'd get hooked on a diceless game to giveit a try.
"We're also especially pleased with the number of female players who are enjoying the game. Guys who played roleplaying games have always lamented that there aren't more girls playing, but we're hearing stories that this isn't the case with the Marvel RPG."
"Here at Marvel we really didn't know what to expect with the release ofthis game, as it was a brand new market and community we were inviting ourselves into," said the project's editor Mark Beazley. "Plus, by going against the grain and creating our own system rather than simply putting outa 'D20' game, we placed ourselves in an underdog position which simply madeus all the more determined to put out the best product possible and proveour worth to the gaming community.
"We feel with Q.E.D.'s veteran guidance and our rookie enthusiasm we'vefound a chemistry that gamers really seem to be responding to, and we're looking forward to expanding and improving this game to not only make it agreat Marvel gaming experience, but to make it one of the most satisfying experiences in the entire market."
Marvel plans to continue publishing supplements to attract new players and to keep the game fresh and exciting for current players. The GUIDE TO THE HULK & THE AVENGERS Hardcover, originally solicited as September release,will be held until November, to allow for more copies of the third printing of the main Game Guide (required to play the supplements) to find their way into player's hands. Future supplements are also in the planning stages,with a Spider-Man's Guide to New York City - focusing on Spidey's Universe and more emphasis on NYC-centric heroes and villains - set for a Spring 2004 release.
Fans and gamers seeking more information or current players can log onto the Marvel Universe Roleplaying Game's special website on Marvel.com here. There they can find a game FAQ, sample pages and examples of play and combat, along with an area to sendfeedback to and ask question of the game's editors and developers.
Very simple idea really. Rpgs are very cool and Marvel could do a good job with one if they come up with a good idea. I actually play in a few online rpgs that are based around the Marvel Universe so I know that it could work if done right. The fans love the characters and playing them. They have great stories and ones that you want to expand on yourself. Now it's up to Marvel. Let's hope they do it right.
WHAT IF?……………………………...............
Welcome to a feature called What If? This is a series where we’ll explore what would be different in Marvel if things did not happen the way they have. We’ll explore actual ideas for What If storylines and the like later in the series. This issue is mostly for fun. What If begins now……….(This is only for fun so none of these events are likely to happen. Even if Jim did take over as EIC. So Joe if you're reading this don‘t take it seriously.)
What If Jim Trabold was EIC of Marvel Comics.
Hello my name is Uatu, I am a Watcher. My mission is to watch over the world you know as Earth. I also watch of the world and explore what would happen if an event was changed. You see this world you know as your true world but will impact my own in a way. You see I have explored the idea of someone else taking over as EIC of Marvel Comics. With many people taking over. The likes of Stan Lee, Jim Krueger, even Peter David. This universe though has my interest the most. Since you readers know this man. The man known as Jim Trabold.
Now let us look in on Marvel Enterprises offices………….
"Gentlemen you have caused sales to drop. Fans to stop reading our comics. You actually could ruin Marvel Comics as we speak. Mister Jemas you are no longer welcome in these offices. You sir are fired." Said the head of Marvel comics.
"What about me sir?" Joe Q asked
"You will no longer be the EIC of Marvel Comics. I have contacted the man who will replace you. He is coming to New York as we speak. We will have a small press conference before he goes to work. You will be staying on though Joe. You will still be an artist and writer." The head of Marvel said.
Later that afternoon…………………………..
Jim Trabold enters the Marvel offices. He had gotten a call from the head of Marvel earlier in the day and asked to come to the offices. But why him. The other news sites had not been contacted. What was so important. He walked to the elevator and walked to the office of the big cheese. (You’ll be surprised at who the big cheese is)
"Sir Mister Trabold is here to see you." His Secretary said
"Send him in." The head of Marvel said.
"You can go in Mister Trabold." The secretary said
"Thank you." Jim said.
Jim entered the office and noticed the chair pointing towards the window. Jim was told to close the door which he did and asked to have a seat. The man behind Marvel was sitting there with his back turned still. The chair turned to face Jim and he was surprised to see who was in charge.
"STAN LEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" Jim said.
That’s right Stan Lee. You see in this universe Stan took over Marvel Enterprises after the company went bankrupt. (Hey it’s my story so let me have a little fun). Stan still had Bill and Joe pull the strings but things where about to change. There was going to be a new EIC and this was the man.
"Yes True Believer, Stan Lee here. It’s a pleasure to meet you Jim. I hope you don’t mind me calling you Jim but I prefer calling people by their first name. Even making up fun little knick names. You have one already made up for yourself of course. Mister Marvel. You know Jim I like it. But let’s just call you Jim "The EIC" Trabold. Actually it fits you well." Stan said.
"The EIC? Stan I love what you’ve done for Marvel but isn’t JQ EIC?" Jim asked
"That’s why you’re here Jim. I need you to take over the job. Joe has done a nice job but we need some fresh blood. You're it Jim. You know Marvel. Only person who knows it better would be myself. I need you to take over as EIC. We shall have a press conference announcing this. All I need you to do is fix some of the mistakes made and help keep the best artist and writers here. Your job is to get new readers and keep old ones. Now if you will sign this contact we’ll get you down to your press briefing. I know you haven’t decided what your going to say or do with Marvel yet but knowing you I’ll bet you have a plan already in mind." Stan said.
"One thing Stan. I need to have 411 break this story first. Let me contact Ben Morse and Daron. Why doesn't Daron get a last name? -Ben They’ll know what to do. The other media is all gathered in the press room I suspect."
"Yes Jim. You need a phone?" Stan asked
"No my lap top and a good internet line will do." Jim said. Jim signs the deal and contacts Ben and Daron. They have to write the story or have Manolis prepare one fast. 411 Comics breaks the news first and an interview is set up for after the press conference.
"Today we have a major announcement. Bill Jemas is no longer with Marvel Comics. He has been fired and I shall be taken over day to day operations here at Marvel. We also have a new EIC. Joe has done a decent job but we need a new direction. So ladies and gentlemen allow me to introduce Jim Trabold." Stan said.
"Hello I think most of you all know me. I am the Marvel News and Views guy from 411 Comics. I have been asked to help Marvel Comics and I am going to take the job. I just got the job today so please allow me some time to get things straightened out and my ideas out there to the writers and artist. I do have some plans but my first exclusive interview with 411. That’s how I got this job so I hope no one minds. If there are any questions now please wait till tomorrow for a full conference and meeting. Thank you." Jim said.
The crowd tried to ask Jim and Stan questions but no questions means no questions. Jim left the room with Stan and was lead to the Marvel Bullpin. He was introduced to the gathered. Jim meets everyone he can and asks Stan to gather all the writers, artist and editors for an important meeting tomorrow morning. This meeting would be to get ready for a change in Marvel. This was going to be a meeting that would be interesting.
An hour later Jim is interviewed by 411 comics. He doesn’t tell too many plans yet. Since he doesn’t know everything. Expect the unexpected.
Jim heads home and tells his family the news before preparing for the important meeting the next day.He told me and Daron before he told his family? Damn straight... -Ben He prints out some important papers and gets other stuff ready. This would be an interesting meeting.
The next morning
The full staff of Marvel writers and artist and a few special guest entered a meeting room. The first thing everyone noticed was a few slips of paper at each chair and a special chair ready for each person. The second was a large board. It looked like some type of fantasy draft board or something. No one could understand it but it would have meaning later. Jim entered the meeting with Stan.
"Welcome everyone. I know not everyone here has a title and some of you are wondering what is going on. The first sheet of paper in front of you is a special report by myself. That paper will allow me to get to know who’s who and what around here. You see I have plans. I have a way to make this simple and sweet. Let’s go through the titles out there right now. We’ll go one at a time. Also what line they will fit in here. Also there will be new titles announced here and who’s going to be doing what. A few of you have exclusive contacts in front of you as well. Those I would like signed. You will be given the payment listed and of course will be on board till the year 2006. I know many are asking about this board it will come in later. So will another sheet you have there. Now let’s begin." Jim said.
Here’s what comes out of the first part of the meeting
Uncanny X-Men
Writer: Chuck Austen on a short leash. (by that I mean there’s someone else waiting)
Cover & pencils: Adam Kubert
New X-Men
Writer: Scott Lobdell
Cover & pencils: Joe Madureira
(A new writer and artist. Also the return of Joe Mad)
X-Treme X-Men
Written by Chris Claremont Pencils by Igor Kordey Covers by Salvador Larroca
New Mutants
Writers: Nunzio DeFilippis, Christina Weir
Pencils: Carlo Barberi
Cover: Chris Bachalo
Cable/Deadpool
Written by Fabian Nicieza Pencils by Mark Brooks (Udon) Cover by Rob Liefeld
NYX
Written by Joe QuesadaCover & pencils by Josh Middleton
Wolverine
Written by Greg Rucka Covers & pencils by Leandro Fernandez
X-Statix
Written by Peter Milligan Covers & pencils by Mike Allred
Weapon X
Written by Frank Tieri Cover & pencils by Georges Jeanty
Exiles
Written by Judd Winick
Pencils by Jim Calafiore Cover by Mizuki Sakakibara
A new X-Title:
Written by Howard Mackie
Cover & pencils by Brian Hitch
Spider-Man line:
Amazing Spider-Man
Written by J. Michael Straczynski Pencils by John Romita Jr. Cover by Tony Harris
Spectacular Spider-Man
Written by Paul Jenkins Covers & pencils by Humberto Ramos
(trust me though of I can get Romita to do both books I’d do it)
Venom
Written by Daniel Way
Pencils by Paco Medina
Cover by Sam Kieth
Spider-Girl
Written by Tom Defalco
Cover & pencils by Ron Frenz
Tsunami
Human Torch
Written by Karl Kesel Cover & pencils by Skottie Young
Inhumans
Written by Sean McKeever Pencils by Rob Teranishi Cover by Adrian Alphona
Runaways
Written by Brian K. Vaughan Cover & pencils by Adrian Alphona
Sentinel
Written by Sean McKeever Cover & pencils by Udon
Mystique
Written by Brian K. Vaughan Pencils by Michael Ryan Cover by Greg Horn
Emma Frost
Written by Karl Bollers Pencils by Randy GreenCover by Greg Horn
Crimson Dynamo
Written by John Jackson Miller Cover & pencils by Steve Ellis
Ultimate
Ultimate X-Men
Written by Brian Michael Bendis Cover & pencils by David Finch
Ultimate Spider-Man
Written by Brian Michael Bendis Cover & pencils by Mark Bagley
Ultimates
Written by Mark Millar Cover & pencils by Bryan Hitch
Ultimate Fantastic Four
Writer: Grant Morrison
Penciller: Jae Lee
Marvel Knights
Daredevil
Written, pencils & cover by David Mack
Punisher
Written by Garth Ennis Pencils by John McCrea Cover by Tim Bradstreet
Elektra
Written by Greg RuckaCover & pencils by Sean Chen
Epic
Pulse
Written by Brian Michael Bendis
Pencils by Michael Gaydos
Cover by David Mack
Supreme Power Written by J. Micheal Straczynski Cover & pencils by Gary Frank
Avengers line
Avengers
Written by Kurt Busiek Cover & pencils by George Perez
(They’re back!)
Iron Man
Written by John Jackson Miller
Cover & pencils by Jorge Lucas
Thor
Written by Dan Jurgens Cover & pencils by Scot Eaton
Hawkeye
Written by Fabian Nicieza Pencils by Stefano Raffaele Cover by Paul Gulacy
Captain America
Written by Frank Millar
Cover & pencils by Jim Steranko and if he needs help Udon
Cosmic Line
Captain Marvel
Written by Peter David Pencils by Paul Azaceta Cover by Barry Kitson
Thanos
Written, pencils & cover by Jim Starlin
Silver Surfer
Written by Steve Englehart Cover & pencils by Ron Lim
(the new Surfer team)
Marvel
Hulk
Written by Peter David
Cover & pencils by Adam Kubert
(The new team behind Hulk)
Fantastic Four
Written by Mark Waid Pencils by Howard Porter Covers by Tony Harris
Other new titles:
Doctor Strange
Written by Writer: Neil GaimanCover & pencils by Chris Bachalo
Defenders
Written by Jim Krueger
Pencils by John Byrne
Cover: Doug Braithwaite
New Warriors
Written by Gail Simone
Pencils & cover Alan Davis
Alpha Flight
Writer: John Byrne
Artist: John Byrne
What If
Writer, artist and cover artist change each issue.
Infinity Watch
Writer: Jim Starlin
Artist: Mike Deodato Jr
So that would be the new line ups for the titles.
Now the Draft board? What was it for? Jim would explain
"Our next goal is to get some better characters around in the titles and more. So we are going to hold the first ever Marvel character draft. This draft is only for teams and for heroes who do not have titles. So a team title can not draft someone in their own title. Those characters will be given to titles when I see fit. This way we don’t have a fight over a character like Wolverine. Now we’ll go down the line. With mutant titles they can only draft mutants. Also with non-mutant titles they can only draft ones that have been on the team. So let’s begin"
With teams like Exiles it will change when the writer sees fit. Weapon X will be more of a villain team using more villains. With New Mutants they get all younger mutants at the school, so they do not need to draft them. Also Professor X will be available to all X-titles. Supreme Power takes any and all old Squadron Supreme mebers out of play also.
Here’s the new line ups
Uncanny X-Men: Professor X, Iceman, Archangel, Storm, Beast, Bishop, and Chamber
X-Treme X-Men: Professor X, Nightcrawler, Wolverine, Shadowcat, Rogue, Gambit, Sage, and Cannonball
New X-Men: Professor X, Cyclops, Phoenix, Polaris, Havok, Cable, Xorn, and Emma Frost
New X-title: Forge, Siryn, Banshee, Warpath, Shatterstar, Rictor, and Domino
New Mutants: Wolfsbane, Moonstar, Magma, Karma, Jubilee plus the students.
Alpha Flight: Vindictor, Northstar, Sasquatch, Aurora, Shaman, Puck, Guardian, and Snowbird (plus a Beta team to be determined)
Avengers: Captain America, Scarlet Witch, Iron Man, Hercules, She-Hulk, Wasp, Vision, Tigra, Songbird, and Thor
X-Statix: Doop, Anarchist, Mr. Sensitive, Vivisector, Phat, Dead Girl, Venus De Milo, and El Guapo
Ultimate X-Men: Professor X, Cyclops, Marvel Girl, Beast, Storm, Colossus, Shadowcat, Wolverine and Iceman (Nightcrawler, Gambit, Rogue guest)
Ultimates: Captain America, Iron Man, Thor, Giant Man, The Wasp, Hulk, Hawkeye, Quicksilver, The Scarlet Witch
Ultimate Fantastic Four: Mr. Fantastic, Invisible Woman, Thing, The Human Torch
So Jim announced the new teams and more to the press and gave 411 the news first. The fans would react and Marvel would be saved yet again. So says the Watcher.
I had some fun writing this one. I admit it's not all serious but it was fun. Some of the ideas I did think would work and the writer/artist combos would also. The teams and lines ups as well. With the lines. The draft idea was just for fun and so was Stan firing Bill and Joe. Well back to real news this week. Reporting from the Marvel Universe this is Jim Trabold. Have a good week.
STAY CURRENT