Earlier this week, Marvel announced a new round of one-shots in the ‘2099’ realm. For those unfamiliar, in 1992, Marvel launched an imprint called ‘Marvel 2099’ that featured characters set (for some reason) 107 years in the future. Well, time marches on, and now we are 80 years from 2099 and, coincidentally, 80 years from the ‘start’ of Marvel Comics.
While the most recognizable (and most frequently re-appearing) member of this relaunch was Spider-Man/Miguel O’Hara, the entire line is a fascinating study in 90s comic storytelling. This line was launched at the height of the speculators’ market, and the line had a distinct ‘people will collect these and sell them for lots of money at conventions’ tone to them. But more than that, there was an ambition to publishing lines at the time that is seemingly absent right now.
Of course, the line petered out and went relgated to ‘hey, remember these guys?’ status for a long time, but seeing Miguel O’Hara play a large part in ‘Spider-Verse’ helped to whet the appetite of comics readers for more 2099 stuff. And the line is worth revisiting, if only for the absolutely batshit comic booking that is “Punisher 2099.” Enjoy this page for a taste of what I’m talking about:
Hat tip to Multiversity writer Greg Ellner for reminding me of this page
So, with that in mind, and with the characters returning, which of the 2099 characters is your favorite? Has one resonated with you for the past 27 years? Vote in our Reader Poll, and check back on Monday for the results!
