magic-games.net – In the vast and ever-expanding universe of Marvel Comics, few events have captured the imagination quite like “Dark Web.” This crossover storyline, which unfolded from November 2022 to February 2023, brought together two of Marvel’s most iconic characters and their respective teams in a battle for the ages.
The Storyline
“Dark Web” is a crossover event written by Zeb Wells and illustrated by Adam Kubert and Ed McGuinness, published by Marvel Comics in 2022. The story serves as a spiritual successor to “Inferno” and centers around Spider-Man and the X-Men joining forces against Ben Reilly and Madelyne Pryor, who have teamed up as Chasm and Goblin Queen, respectively.
The narrative is bookended by two one-shots, subtitled “Dusk” and “Dawn,” and continues in the pages of Zeb Wells’ run of “Amazing Spider-Man.” The storyline also ties into various other books, including “Venom” (vol. 5), “Gold Goblin,” “Mary Jane & Black Cat,” “Dark Web: Ms. Marvel,” and “Dark Web: X-Men”.
The Characters
The main characters involved in “Dark Web” include Spider-Man, the X-Men, Chasm (Ben Reilly), Madelyne Pryor (Goblin Queen), Mary Jane Watson, Black Cat, Venom, Gold Goblin, Ms. Marvel (Kamala Khan), and Hallows’ Eve, a new member of Spider-Man’s rogue’s gallery.
Publication History
The event was teased in April 2022, with Marvel Comics posting a teaser titled “The Dark Web is being spun,” which hinted at Spider-Man’s involvement. The storyline was further detailed at San Diego Comic-Con in July 2022, where it was revealed to be a Spider-Man/X-Men crossover spearheaded by Zeb Wells.
Prelude issues were published in November to set up the event, allowing readers to see what Chasm and the Goblin Queen had been up to. “Venom” (vol. 5) #13 and “Amazing Spider-Man” (vol. 6) #14 introduced key elements of the storyline, including Chasm and Hallows’ Eve.
Themes and Impact
“Dark Web” explores themes of revenge and the consequences of being wronged. The event serves as a culmination of the stories of Ben Reilly and Madelyne Pryor, who have long been considered the wronged clones of Spider-Man and Jean Grey, respectively. Their decision to team up as Chasm and Goblin Queen and unleash chaos across the Marvel Universe sets the stage for a dramatic showdown.
The storyline also impacts the status quo of several characters, particularly Norman Osborn, whose sins are cleansed during the “Last Remains” storyline, and Mary Jane Watson and Black Cat, who team up again after their previous collaboration in the “Beyond” storyline.
Conclusion
“Dark Web” is a significant event in the Marvel Universe, bringing together two of its most beloved characters and their teams in a battle that has far-reaching implications. The storyline not only explores the depths of revenge but also delves into the complexities of character relationships and the consequences of past actions. As the event unfolds, it promises to be a thrilling ride that will leave fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the ongoing saga of Spider-Man and the X-Men.