Avengers #21 places Earth’s Mightiest Heroes against the X-Men in an unexpected clash that begins to unfold under the expertise of Avengers writer Jed MacKay, who is also crafting the X-Men storyline. Collaborating with artist Valerio Schiti, colorist Federico Blee, and letterer Cory Petit, MacKay prepares the groundwork for a new era of Avengers/X-Men relations.
Following the rivalry and doubt that has lingered since the 2012’s Avengers Vs. X-Men, it appears we are witnessing a genuinely fresh dynamic between Marvel’s two premier teams. We can assert that confidently now.
Spoilers ahead for Avengers #21
In Avengers #21, the team journeys to confront Cyclops and the main X-Men squad at their new base in Alaska, accompanied by their latest member, the mutant Storm. Although it seems there will be a fierce showdown, instead, a lighthearted baseball game unfolds between the teams.
The match is all in good spirits, but it comes to an end when Juggernaut takes a mighty swing that obliterates their final ball, leading to a feast prepared by Glob Herman. After gathering for the meal, a series of discussions arise between members of the Avengers and X-Men.
Magneto addresses Wanda Maximoff, his adopted daughter, expressing sadness over the illness that is affecting his body. Simultaneously, he asserts that his new purpose and belief is that the struggles of all oppressed groups—be they mutants or others—constitute a united struggle.
Beast questions Tony Stark about why he didn’t prevent his former self from becoming a villain. Tony replies that it was because he lost track of him—but from now on, Hank will have the opportunity to become a new person and make different choices. Idie inquires if Storm still believes in Xavier’s dream, to which Storm affirms she does—but not for what it is, rather for its potential.
Most significantly, Captain Marvel asks Cyclops if the Avengers can rely on the X-Men as allies while they face the impending cosmic calamities that have been warned to them as Tribulation Events. While Cyclops bristles somewhat at Carol’s implications…