After looking at hundreds of comic book covers, it becomes quickly apparent that not every cover is 100% original. Whether done intentionally or even underhandedly, there’s something about uncovering these “swipes” that adds a new element of fun to reading and collecting comics.
In 1995, Marvel Comics made a bold move by temporarily cancelling all of the then-current X-Titles (their best-selling comics). Each series was replaced by a four-issue mini-series showing what that team would look like in the Age of Apocalypse alterniverse. Prior to these series hitting the market, X-Men: Alpha presented a first look at this strange, new world. To celebrate this momentous occasion, Marvel hired mega-popular Joe Madureira to provide the cover art for the book and gave it an enhanced cover, as well.
Years prior to this, Marvel had an ongoing series entitled What The –?! that spoofed on themselves as well as other comic companies. It lasted for 26 issues and was canceled in 1993. However, in the same vein of this canceled parody series came 1995’s Marvel Riot, a one-shot special with an all-new target to poke fun at: the Age of Apocalypse! And, what better way to kick off the fun-poking than to start off with a satirical cover swipe?!
 X-Men: Alpha #1 February 1995 Joe Madureira |
 Marvel Riot #1 December 1995 Hilary Barta |
On Ebay: X-Men | Age of Apocalypse | Joe Madureira | Marvel Riot | Hilary Barta