Witness the aftermath as the Ivory Spire succumbs to Genesis’s might, and now her gaze turns towards Arakko. Uncover the gripping tale in X-Men Red #12 by Marvel Comics!

X-MEN RED #12

Writer: Al Ewing
Artist: Jacopo Camagni
Colorist: Federico Blee
Letterer: Ariana Maher
Editor: Jordan D. White
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Cover Price: $3.99
Release Date: June 14th, 2023 

Previously in X-Men Red: Ironfire, the White Sword’s loyal companion, arrives on Arakko to share the story of the devastating downfall of a powerful force. However, the newly terraformed Planet Arakko surprises Ironfire with its changed inhabitants, who struggle to adapt to a peaceful existence after eons of warfare.

X-Men Red #12 starts with Ironfire recounting the White Sword’s demise. Despite being an omega-level mutant with extraordinary healing abilities, the White Sword realizes that he cannot prevail against the overwhelming demon hordes led by Genesis. He releases Ironfire from his service, entrusting him with the sword, Purity. Ironfire’s mission is to take the weapon to Arakko and warn its people of the impending dangers. The White Sword valiantly battles the Four Horsemen and the Summoner, but without Purity, he stands no chance against Genesis. The cunning Genesis manipulates and controls the weakened White Sword, subjugating him to her will.

On Arakko, the Fisher King, Storm, Sunspot, Nova, and Khora attentively listen to Ironfire’s tale and pledge to relay the information directly to the Great Ring. This decision infuriates Ironfire, who insists on immediately mobilizing their armies. Meanwhile, Genesis arrives in Arakko via a newly established Krakoan Gate and receives a communication from Orchis.

As I delved into X-Men #12, I grappled with more questions than answers. Where is Apocalypse in all of this? Why does Genesis appear to be aligned with evil in this scenario? It’s a confusing situation that demands clarification. I was particularly intrigued by the clash between Ironfire, representative of Arakko’s traditional way of life, and the evolving philosophy of peace on the island. However, my anticipation abruptly stopped when Orchis was introduced in the closing pages. I had hoped for a return of Apocalypse confronting Arakko while Krakoa dealt with Orchis. Regrettably, it seems that Orchis will also play a significant role in this storyline. I must admit my disappointment, as Orchis is starting to feel overused, and I wasn’t particularly invested in that plotline to begin with.

The artwork in this issue maintains the high standard we’ve come to expect from Marvel. However, I noticed a lack of the usual flashy displays of superpowers typical in superhero comics. While this deviation isn’t necessarily a negative, I usually anticipate a more dramatic flair, given the presence of heroes like Storm and Sunspot.

I have thoroughly enjoyed the recent X-Men run and appreciate the multitude of intriguing concepts emerging from the X-Men titles. However, I hoped that X-Men Red #12 would delve deeper into the issues specific to Arakko rather than rehashing themes already explored in the Krakoan narrative. Nonetheless, this issue is skillfully written and well-designed. I give X-Men Red #12 a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.

---

Dear Spoilerite,

At Major Spoilers, we strive to create original content that you find interesting and entertaining. Producing, writing, recording, editing, and researching requires significant resources. We pay writers, podcast hosts, and other staff members who work tirelessly to provide you with insights into the comic book, gaming, and pop culture industries. Help us keep MajorSpoilers.com strong. Become a Patron (and our superhero) today.

X-Men Red #12

80%

80%

Concerned

X-Men Red #12 introduces a new antagonist from Arakko, but my concern lies in the potential entanglement of their storyline with Orchis and the ongoing Krakoan problems.

• Writing

  8
• Art

  8
• Coloring

  8
• User Ratings (0 Votes)
  0