what to read before secret wars

3 min read 26-12-2024

Meta Description: Embark on a journey through the Marvel multiverse before Secret Wars! This comprehensive guide outlines essential comics and storylines to fully appreciate the upcoming event. Discover key characters, pivotal conflicts, and crucial plot points that set the stage for the ultimate battle between realities. Don't miss out; prepare yourself for the epic clash in Secret Wars!

Understanding the Stakes: Why Pre-Reading Matters for Secret Wars

Secret Wars, whether the 1984 original or the 2015 iteration (or this new one!), isn't just another Marvel crossover. It's a massive, universe-altering event. To truly grasp the scope of the story and appreciate its impact, understanding the preceding narratives is crucial. This isn't just about knowing the characters; it's about comprehending the intricate web of relationships, conflicts, and looming threats that culminate in the Secret Wars. This guide will help you navigate the essential readings.

Essential Reading: A Tiered Approach to Secret Wars Prep

We'll break down the necessary reading into tiers, based on importance and relevance. Start with Tier 1, then move to the others depending on your time and interest.

Tier 1: Absolute Must-Reads

These storylines directly feed into the themes and events of Secret Wars. Skipping these will significantly impact your understanding.

Jonathan Hickman's Avengers & New Avengers (2012-2015): This is arguably the most important prerequisite. Hickman meticulously crafted a sprawling cosmic saga, introducing the Builders, the incursions (colliding realities), and setting the stage for the ultimate conflict. Reading these titles is essential for comprehending the core concept of Secret Wars and its underlying conflicts.
"Time Runs Out" (Avengers & New Avengers): This storyline, concluding Hickman's run, directly leads into Secret Wars. It showcases the desperate attempts to prevent the destruction of multiple universes.

Tier 2: Highly Recommended Reading

These comics provide crucial context and enrich your understanding of key characters and conflicts, deepening your appreciation for the stakes in Secret Wars.

Original Secret Wars (1984): While not directly connected to the newer iterations, the original Secret Wars is a seminal work in Marvel history. It established the Battleworld concept and introduced several iconic characters and storylines. Reading it offers valuable perspective.
Specific Character Arcs: Depending on the characters you're most invested in, focusing on their individual stories leading up to Secret Wars can be hugely beneficial. For instance, if you're particularly fond of Captain America or Spider-Man, seek out their relevant storylines during this period.

Tier 3: Further Exploration (Optional but Enriching)

These comics offer additional layers of context and background. They aren't strictly necessary but can significantly enhance your overall enjoyment.

Other Hickman-Written Titles: Hickman's work across various Marvel titles during this period often intertwines, offering further insight into the intricate web he created.
Related Cosmic Events: Exploring other cosmic storylines from Marvel's history, such as Annihilation and Thanos's various escapades, can provide a broader understanding of the scale of threats faced in Secret Wars.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Answering Your Secret Wars Queries

Q: Do I need to read every single issue?

A: No. Focus on the major plot points and character arcs within the recommended series. There are plenty of online summaries and recaps available if you need a concise overview.

Q: Can I jump straight into Secret Wars without prior reading?

A: You can, but you'll likely miss crucial context and find the story confusing. The pre-reading provides a much more satisfying and enriching experience.

Q: Which version of Secret Wars should I read first?

A: It depends on your preference. The 1984 version is a classic, while the 2015 version is more directly connected to the current storyline. Consider the 2015 version as a primary starting point.

Conclusion: Prepare for the Multiversal Mayhem

Secret Wars is a sprawling, significant event in the Marvel universe. By engaging with the recommended reading material, you'll not only be better prepared to understand the complex narrative but will also deepen your appreciation for the characters and the stakes involved. So, dive in, explore the cosmos, and prepare yourself for an epic clash of realities!