Wolverine's journey in the 2020s has been a rollercoaster, with a mix of highs and lows that have kept fans on the edge of their seats. From legendary writers returning to the character to epic battles and mind-bending storylines, the decade has been a wild ride for the X-Men's most iconic mutant. Here's a deep dive into five moments that have truly defined Wolverine's era in the 2020s, each one packed with personal commentary and analysis.
1. Chris Claremont's Return to Wolverine
Chris Claremont, the mastermind behind Wolverine's rise to stardom in the 1980s, made a triumphant return to the character in 2024. With the 50th anniversary of Wolverine's creation on the horizon, Claremont's involvement in several miniseries like Wolverine: Madripoor Knights, the continuation of the iconic Uncanny X-Men #268, and Wolverine: Deep Cut was a dream come true for fans. Claremont's storytelling is a perfect blend of action, drama, and character development, and his books from 2024 and 2025 are a testament to his enduring love for the character. Personally, I think Claremont's return is a game-changer, as it brings a sense of nostalgia and a fresh perspective to Wolverine's narrative. What makes this particularly fascinating is how Claremont's work in the 80s laid the foundation for Wolverine's modern-day popularity, and his return to the character is a celebration of that legacy.
2. Wolverine's Return to X-Force
X-Force (Vol. 6), which launched in 2019, found its stride in the 2020s, with Benjamin Percy, Joshua Cassara, and Robert Gill at the helm. The series showcased Wolverine in a new light, as the field leader of a dangerous and secretive team. The dynamic between Wolverine, Beast, and the rest of the team was electric, and the story's focus on the group's moral dilemmas and the threat of Krakoa's enemies kept readers engaged. In my opinion, this run is a testament to the power of character-driven storytelling. What many people don't realize is that X-Force wasn't just a side story; it was a crucial part of Wolverine's growth and development, showing his leadership skills and the complexities of his relationships with other mutants.
3. Wolverine vs. Beast
The battle between Wolverine and Beast in X-Force (Vol. 6) was a turning point in the character's journey. Beast's descent into a ruthless protector of Krakoa, and his attempt to kill Wolverine, led to an intense and emotional conflict. The story, which ran from Wolverine (Vol. 7) #26 to #35, showcased the raw power of Wolverine's indomitable spirit and the complexity of his relationships. This war between the two characters is a reminder that Wolverine's strength lies not only in his physical abilities but also in his emotional depth and moral compass. If you take a step back and think about it, this storyline highlights the fine line between heroism and madness, and how Wolverine's unwavering determination can be both a blessing and a curse.
4. The 'Sabretooth War'
Sabretooth War, a ten-part epic, was the culmination of Benjamin Percy's run on Wolverine, and it did not disappoint. Working with Victor LaValle and artists Geoff Shaw and Cory Smith, Percy crafted a multiversal showdown between Logan and a horde of Victor Creeds. The story's intense action sequences, bloody moments, and deep character exploration made it a standout in the Krakoa Era. In my opinion, this is peak Wolverine, as it showcases his ability to rise to the occasion in the face of overwhelming odds. What this really suggests is that Wolverine's strength is not just physical, but also his ability to inspire and lead, even in the darkest of times.
5. Wolverine: Revenge
Wolverine: Revenge, a five-issue series from Jonathan Hickman and Greg Capullo, is a modern classic. Set on an alternate Earth where Magneto's death triggers an EMP, Logan is tasked with retrieving technology from a dangerous Brotherhood of Mutants. The story's blend of action, mystery, and emotional depth is a testament to Hickman's love for the character. Capullo's artwork brings the action to life, making this a visually stunning and thrilling ride. Personally, I think this series is a masterpiece, as it showcases Wolverine's resilience, his moral ambiguity, and his unwavering determination to protect the innocent. It's a modern classic that will stand the test of time.
Wolverine's journey in the 2020s has been a thrilling adventure, filled with iconic moments that have solidified his place as one of the most beloved mutants in the Marvel Universe. From legendary writers to epic battles, the decade has been a golden age for Wolverine fans, and the future looks bright for the ol' Canucklehead.
