Marvel Comics is kicking off a new initiative this fall titled Legacy that will "embrace our roots and move enthusiastically forward" in aaccording to Chief Creative Officer Joe Quesada.
Announced during the "Marvel's Next Big Thing" panel at Chicago's C2E2 2017 on Saturday, Legacy 's "bold new direction" will begin with an 50-page Marvel Legacy #1 one-shot by Jason Aaron and Esad Ribic that will feature "the Earth-shattering return of a beloved Marvel mainstay" (cue Fantastic Four speculation now) and will continue through with the publisher's long-running titles reverting to their original series or "classic legacy" numbering.
“The Marvel Legacy initiative is a celebration of everything that makes Marvel the best in fiction and it’s a signifier of a new era for Marvel Comics,” said Quesada. “It’s a loving look at the heart of Marvel as we embrace our roots and move enthusiastically forward with all the Marvel characters you know and love starring in the biggest, boldest, best Marvel stories. All of which kicks off with the giant Marvel Legacy special.”
While emphasizing the storied past of the Marvel Universe, the publisher is also mixing in newer characters as well.
"From there, the Marvel Legacy initiative spreads out across the Marvel Universe, showcasing epic storylines hearkening back to the glory days of Marvel starring Odinson, Squirrel Girl, Spider-Man, the Avengers, America Chavez, Iron Man, Moon Knight, the Guardians of the Galaxy, Captain Marvel, Luke Cage, the X-Men, Captain America, Ms. Marvel, Deadpool, the Champions, Wolverine, Ironheart, Hulk, The Punisher and so many more!"
The publisher said that Legacy will encompass the entire Marvel Universe, promsing "blockbuster new storylines" and its renumbered titles coming with "a renewed sense of hope, wonder, enjoyment and fun!"
Marvel's Legacy initiative expands beyond just the stories and the issue numbers on the front cover, as the publisher plans to revive ancillary elements from its past such as the Marvel Value Stamp, the fan magazine FOOM, and corner box art on covers.
Marvel said to expect information on the titles and their creative teams for both new and continuing series to be announced in the next few months.
