Top Five Must-Read X-Men Comics Ahead of Their MCU Introduction

The X-Men seem poised to become the next major success in the MCU, and these stories are the perfect material for their upcoming big-screen appearance. The finale of Ms. Marvel and the surprising post-credits scene in The Marvels have made it clear that the X-Men are now part of the MCU. With superhero fatigue setting in for other once-popular franchises, the X-Men have the potential to be the next big thing.

The X-Men have a history of mixed results with their films. While some, like X-Men: First Class and X-Men: Days of Future Past, are considered classics, others like X-Men: The Last Stand and X-Men: Apocalypse have not been well received. Despite some lows, the X-Men comics have also seen some of the finest moments in Marvel's history.

Best X-Men books to read before the new MCU X-Men Movie

For those interested in delving into the original material prior to the first MCU film, these X-Men tales serve as an ideal introduction for newcomers or a nostalgic revisit for long-time enthusiasts.

Marvel ComicsAn all-new X-Men is formed to save the original team in the landmark Giant-Size X-Men #1.

Giant-Size X-Men #1

If you want to know the origin of the X-Men, look no further than the original soft reboot. In the 1970s, Marvel's Uncanny X-Men title ended up in publishing limbo as they figured out what to do with the property. Giant-Size X-Men #1 continues the story after the last new X-Men stories, with Cyclops and Professor X forming a new team to rescue the original team, who have been taken by the sentient island, Krakoa.

Discover the debut of an internationally-flavored team in Giant-Size X-Men #1, featuring iconic characters like Wolverine, Storm, and Nightcrawler. This issue is a must-read for modern fans, as it introduces mainstays of the X-Men series.

Marvel ComicsAstonishing X-Men distanced the team from their black leather era and put them back into superheroics.

Astonishing X-Men

Joss Whedon, often a controversial figure nowadays, was once a powerhouse in the industry. His X-Men run is not only a timeless classic but remains the ideal entry point for new readers. Astonishing X-Men #1, while not a complete reboot like Giant-Size, effectively re-establishes the essence of the X-Men, blending nostalgia with a fresh perspective on the preceding years of X-Men tales. These previous stories were stunning, but their darker atmosphere and black leather costumes have become outdated.

Experience the rapid tensions among the team as they navigate the drama of the new Xavier Institute. Follow the X-Men as they return to heroics and confront the looming threat of a proposed "cure" for the mutant gene, leading to an all-out war and an epic space adventure for the team. Astonishing X-Men offers a thrilling rollercoaster ride for fans, both new and old.

Purchase Astonishing X-Men Vol. 1: Gifted now.

Marvel ComicsThe X-Men and Avengers found their pasts radically altered by a desperate Scarlet Witch in House of M.

House of M

Following Scarlet Witch's mental breakdown and the unraveling of reality, The Avengers disband. Their search for Wanda causes tension and conflict with the X-Men. A sudden flash of light marks the end of both teams' attempts to capture Wanda, and an entirely new reality is revealed.

House of M introduced a Marvel Universe where mutants thrived under Magneto's leadership, rather than being feared. This story had a significant impact on the following decade of Marvel narratives, driving the personal development of various Marvel heroes and establishing a groundbreaking new situation for the X-Men.

Get the House of M Omnibus now to experience the X-Men's harrowing struggle as their numbers dwindle and mutants lose their powers, pushing them to the brink of extinction. Fans continue to hope for a dedicated House of M project, even as the MCU nods to it in Wandavision.

Marvel ComicsDark Phoenix Saga pit the X-Men against the universe in a fight that everyone lost.

The Dark Phoenix Saga

The Dark Phoenix Saga is the quintessential classic X-Men story that fans often think of when reminiscing about an old-school X-Men story. It introduces many modern X-Men elements, such as Kitty Pryde and Dazzler, as well as the flirtation between Kitty and Colossus, and establishes Cyclops as a leader of the X-Men. Additionally, the story explores the dangerous consequences of Jean Grey's connection to the Phoenix, and the fallout that ensues.

Experience the dark and gripping epic of the Dark Phoenix Saga, a story that continues to set the standard for future tales. Its lasting impact is still felt over 40 years later, with a narrative that remains as timeless as ever. Get your copy of X-Men: The Dark Phoenix Saga now.

Marvel ComicsDays of Future Past introduced the dark future of the mutant race – and the uncertain prospect of changing it.

Days of Future Past

In Days of Future Past, mutants are faced with a dark future. Sentinels are on the streets and mutants are locked away in internment camps. In a far-flung future of 2013, Wolverine, Kitty Pryde, and the remaining X-Men work to prevent a nuclear holocaust. Despite its dated setting, this story of a dystopian future stands out. With their options dwindling, Kitty's consciousness is sent back to 1981, where she alters the course of the future in order to save the mutant race.

Have you seen the results? Fans are left to ponder that themselves. Although certain sequels and prequel stories, like Days of Future Present, have explored this timeline, it was never confirmed whether Future Kitty's actions were ultimately successful. Nevertheless, Days of Future Past stands as a standout X-Men tale with a compelling storyline and some of the franchise's most memorable visuals.

Purchase X-Men: Days of Future Past now!

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Editor's P/S

As a passionate X-Men fan, I am thrilled about their upcoming introduction to the MCU. The X-Men have a rich history and captivating stories that have captivated readers for decades. The five must-read comics recommended in the article provide an excellent starting point for those eager to delve into the world of the X-Men before their MCU debut.

Giant-Size X-Men #1 stands out as a crucial read, offering the origin of the iconic team and introducing beloved characters like Wolverine, Storm, and Nightcrawler. Astonishing X-Men, written by Joss Whedon, presents a refreshing take on the X-Men, blending nostalgia with a modern perspective. House of M, with its mind-bending storyline and significant impact on the Marvel Universe, is a must-read for fans seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally charged narrative.