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Marvel Comics Presents launched in 1988 as an ad-free anthology showcasing four eight-page features, stuffed inside a wrap-around cover. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Cover Date: 1990 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Paul Gulacy

Wolverine in “the Wilding” part 1 written by Rob Liefeld art by Rob Liefeld After a night of drinking in Ottawa, Canada, Wolverine is the victim of a savage hit-and-run attack. He suspects it was his former teammate Wildchild!

Comet Man in “A Family Affair” part 2 written by Bill Mumy with Miguel Ferrer art by Kelley Jones The drunk-driver turns out to be Comet Man’s brother-in-law, Lou. Lou reveals that after he and his wife, Rosemary (Stephen’s – aka Comet Man’s wife), thought Comet Man had died, Stephen’s son Benny condition worsened. Bills started piling up and Lou turned to alcohol – so Rosemary took her nephew and left. After getting her new address from Lou, Comet Man takes off for Connecticut to find his sister and his son. Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, Max runs afoul of some gangsters but makes quick work of them with his powers. Back in Connecticut, Comet Man is reunited with his son and sister – and he meets his sister’s new boyfriend, Jonathan Gallagher. Turns out that Gallagher is the villainous Superior of the Bridge but, Comet Man doesn’t realize it … yet.

Iron Man in “the Other Way Out“ written by Steve Saffel art by M.D. Bright Iron Man flies to a Communist country whose government is about to kill twelve prisoners who took part in a Pro-Democracy Demonstration. Unfortunately, he doesn’t make it there fast enough to save the life of a friend of his.

Le Peregrine in “the Straight Approach“ written by Fabian Nicieza art by Don Heck Le Peregrine has accepted an assignment from Silver Sable International to protect a shipping lane in the Strait of Hormuz from a surveillance station’s blockade. When he lands at the station, he’s met with American troops that reveal the corporation that hired Sable International was Stane International. Stane has been dirty dealing with both sides of the Strait – trading in munitions, hardware and oil. So, the mercenary clears the way for the Stane ship to make it through the Strait – and then, as payback for being put in a bad situation, he attaches an explosive to its hull and warns the crew to evacuate.

Like the previous Wolverine story, this one appears like it’s going to be very action-oriented, as well. The Comet Man story kicks up a notch with the hero befriending the villain’s secret identity. To be honest, the Iron Man story seems like it’s supposed to be heart-touching but I feel like I’m missing out on some of the subtleties. Seeing the French mercenary in his own solo tale was kind of fun – I can certainly picture him holding his own mini-series if it was done in similar fashion. But, really – that’s Nicieza – fun comics are par for the course when it comes to him.

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Comet Man | Iron Man | Le Peregrine
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Comet Man | Iron Man

Marvel Comics Presents launched in 1988 as an ad-free anthology showcasing four eight-page features, stuffed inside a wrap-around cover. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Cover Date: 1990 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Erik Larsen

Wolverine in “Life’s End” conclusion written by Erik Larsen art by Erik Larsen Spider-Man and Wolverine recuperated from last issue’s blast and resume their battle against Critical Mass and his Band of Baddies. In the battle, Spidey discovers that the guy dressed as a burglar is his dentist! The kidnapped girl uses her blasting powers to take down the warehouse and when Spider-Man comes to, everyone else is gone without a trace. After discovering two of these villains are related to him somehow, and with the knowledge of other friends-turned-villains (like the Green Goblin), Spider-Man can’t help but wonder if his presence is somehow coincidentally turning people in his social circle into villains.

Comet Man in “A Family Affair” part 1 written by Bill Mumy with Miguel Ferrer art by Kelley Jones Comet Man is aboard a Fortisquian Starcruiser orbiting Earth’s moon, searching for the man who ruined his life, the Superior – his own brother. A teleconference with Reed Richards confirms that there is no trace of his brother to be found. After the call, Comet Man’s mentor, Max, decides it’s time to take a break from training and return to Earth. Max intends to enjoy Earth culture as Comet Man tracks down his son. And, as Comet Man returns to his family’s neighborhood, he stops a drunk-driver from hitting a biker.

Captain Ultra in “I Just Flew In From Poughkeepsie And Boy Are My Ams Tired“ written by Scott Lobdell art by Dennis Jensen Doc Samson cures Captain Ultra of his pyrophobia and he goes on a joyride through Poughkeepsie, unintentionally destroying some parts of the city. A friendly cop convinces Captain Ultra that any real super-hero belongs in New York City. So, moving to a new city, Griffin Gogol (Cap’s alter ego) decides to pursue a career as a stand-up comedian. Too bad the club he’s performing at is being frequented by Ekl’r – the Demon Without Humor. Looks like this is a job for … Captain Ultra! And, using his Ultra-Potential, he can do anything better than anyone else – so he destroys the demon with an Ultra-Joke.

Silver Surfer in “You Can’t Go Home Again“ written by Ed Simmons art by Jack Sparling   Flying through space, the Silver Sufer combines with a singularity (a black hole) and crash lands on a small planetoid that orbits the black hole. He’s revived by a young woman named Rava and she explains that her people are prisoners of the Marauder – the conqueror who controls the singularity. Can the Silver Surfer defeat such a powerful villain now that his board has gone missing?

Erik Larsen’s Spider-Man/Wolverine story concludes and utilizes a concept that comic fans have been commenting on for years: it seems awfully strange that so many friends/acquaintances of super-heroes become super-powered individuals, themselves. And, in the last page, Wolverine sends off the kidnapped girl and her father but, take note of the clues about his identity:

1. He says “Holey Moley”.
2. He reveals that he’s an orphan.
3. Wolverine refers to him as “Captain” and “Mr. Beck”.

Fawcett Comics’ Captain Marvel was co-created by C.C. Beck whose catchphrase was “Holey Moley”. Additionally, his alter ego was an orphan named Billy Batson. Soooooooooo this is an unauthorized guest-appearance by Captain Marvel (who, at this point, was owned DC Comics). Now, as fun as the art was in this three-parter, the storyline wasn’t all that great – aside from asking a question that we’ve always wondered about. Naturally, no answer is provided.

It’s neat to see Marvel following up on a minor character with this Comet Man feature. He had his own mini series in the 1980s and later appeared in a few Fantastic Four issues. Even better? It utilizes the same creative team as his mini-series (the writer is Bill Mumy; Will Robinson from Lost in Space).

Another one of Marvel’s minor characters is featured in this very issue: Captain Ultra. This character was also featured in the Fantastic Four, years ago – and is brought back here by writer, Scott Lobdell who also has performed as a stand-up comedian (just like Captain Ultra’s alter ego).

And, how about that Larsen cover? Supposedly, it features every character that has appeared in MCP so far. And – it must have taken him days to put together!

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Comet Man | Captain Ultra | Silver Surfer
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Comet Man | Silver Surfer

Marvel Comics Presents launched in 1988 as an ad-free anthology showcasing four eight-page features, stuffed inside a wrap-around cover. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Cover Date: 1990 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Erik Larsen

Wolverine in “Life’s End” part 2 written by Erik Larsen art by Erik Larsen Spider-Man and Wolverine find the kidnapped girl and take on her captors: Critical Mass and his Baddies (Whiplash, Bloodlust, the Savage Fin and an unnamed burglar). And, as our heroes start to win the day, the mutants make the little girl user her (previously unrevealed) powers to stop Spidey & Logan.

Devil-Slayer in “Lost Souls” conclusion written by Dwight Zimmerman art by Rodney Ramos Devil-Slayer is met in battle with the triple threat of the Flying Dutchman, Colonel McCloskey and Colonel Ramirez. The Dutchman opens an abyss that serves as the entrance to Mephisto’s realm – and, in their fight, Colonel Ramirez plunches into it, head-first. Colonel McCloskey almost meets the same fate but, he manages to cling to the edge with one hand. Before he can fall, Devil-Slayer defeats the Dutchman with a bottle full of Holy Water and then saves McCloskey’s life. The Flying Dutchman is wounded and retreats, leaving Devil-Slayer with his soul still intact. Eric Simon Payne then decides that he’s been granted a second chance at life and will give up being the Devil-Slayer.

Daredevil in “White Messiah“ written by John Figueroa art by Ron Wilson In his latest attempt to bust up a drug-deal, Daredevil comes face to face with the villain named Scope. He’s got hyper-sensitive senses, too … but he’s not blind! How’s Daredevil going to get himself out of this one?

Gladiator in “the Unbeatable Foe“ written by Len Kaminsky art by Don Heck Gladiator has sworn to serve she who sits upon the Shi’ar Empire’s throne. Currently, the ruler is Deathbird who has taken the throne from her sister by force. And, even though he is not happy about it, Gladiator continues to uphold his vow of service. Torn by his actions, he flies to Sector 9511 of the Shi’ar Galaxy to blow off some steam by flying through stars and destroying the landscapes of dead planets. On one of these planets he’s attacked by a Devonian Xontar – a foe whose powers are fed by its enemy. The more you struggle, the stronger it becomes. It takes a while – but, eventually, Gladiator realizes that the only way to beat this foe is to give up and stop struggling. And, by surrendering his rage, the attack has ended. He is free to pursue loftier goals – as is his heart.

Well, this is an MCP first! It’s the second consecutive cover done by the same artist. This “award” goes to Erik Larsen, who’s also the writer and artist on the Spider-Man/Wolverine feature. His story seems to include some strange coincidences. It takes place in the abandoned warehouse where Spider-Man first tracked down his Uncle Ben’s killer. Spider-Man recognizes the villain, Critical Mass, as a kid from his fourth grade class. And, the unnamed burglar bears a striking resemblance to the one who killed Uncle Ben (but, didn’t he die in Amazing Spider-Man #200?). Topping it off, there’s also the debut of the Savage Fin who looks very similar to Larsen’s creator-owned Savage Dragon (his title hit stands two years later). Zimmerman’s Devil-Slayer feature is intended to be a true ending to the saga of the Slayer – this is certainly not how I thought this tale would end but it’s neat to see our hero at peace with himself. Will it last? The Daredevil solo was pretty bland but Gladiator’s was a great feature of his abilities and also added some interesting character moments as his great rage was quelled.

This issue included the USPS Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation that revealed some interesting numbers:

Total Number of Copies Printed (net press run). Avernage number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months. 281,765. Single issue nearest to filing date: 245,225.

Paid Circulation: 1) Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors and counter sales: Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 163,295. Single issue nearest to filing date: 132,100. 2) Mail subscriptions: Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 230. Single issue nearest to filing date: 300.

Copies Not Distributed: 1) Office use, left-over, unaccounted, spoiled after printing: Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 600. Single issue nearest to filing date: 600. 2) Returns from News Agents: Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 117,515. Single issue nearest to filing date: 114,100.

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Devil-Slayer | Daredevil | Gladiator
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Devil-Slayer | Daredevil

Marvel Comics Presents launched in 1988 as an ad-free anthology showcasing four eight-page features, stuffed inside a wrap-around cover. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Cover Date: 1990 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Erik Larsen

Wolverine in “Life’s End” part 1 written by Erik Larsen art by Erik Larsen The world and Spider-Man believe Wolverine died saving the world – so who’s that guy in his costume, prowling on a rooftop? Spidey swings in close to attack the “imposter” only to discover that it’s the real deal – and he’s on the trail of a girl who’s been kidnapped by evil mutants.

Devil-Slayer in “Lost Souls” part 3 written by Dwight Zimmerman art by Rodney Ramos Armed with weapons from the Flying Dutchman, Colonel McCloskey and Colonel Ramirez attack the village of Potega – killing Father Perone and destroying Devil-Slayer’s weapons hut. Mayor Miranda twists the truth and blames Devil-Slayer for the priest’s death so the villagers run him out of their town and into the villainous path of the Flying Dutchman and the Colonels.

Wasp in “Object“ written by Marcus McLaurin art by Eric Shanower A new villain is using his ability to animate electricity to menace the Wasp. But, with the debut of her new dress line, her PR agent is loving all the new attention this menace is bringing her. Will she place more importance on her business or her humanity?

Dr. Doom & Storm in “When It Rains“ written by Dwight Zimmerman art by Rodney Ramos Storm happens upon a battle between Doctor Doom and some tanks amidst a factory and its grounds. She assumes that Doom is defending the factory’s right to poison the land but, a quick conversation shows her the error of her assumption. In fact, it’s completely the other way around – so she and Doom team up for the sake of the environment!

Wow. It seems a lot of writers found these eight-page singles to be an opportunity for preachy super-hero tales. The Storm/Doctor Doom features is yet another “save the environment” lame-fest. The Wasp’s tale wasn’t much better – at least Devil-Slayer’s feature has built to a tense point. But, the Wolverine/Spider-Man feature was easily the most fun – probably because of Erik Larsen’s high-action and excellent artwork.

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Devil-Slayer | Wasp | Doctor Doom
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Devil-Slayer | Wasp

Marvel Comics Presents launched in 1988 as an ad-free anthology showcasing four eight-page features, stuffed inside a wrap-around cover. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Cover Date: 1990 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: John Byrne

Wolverine in “Black Shadow, White Shadow” conclusion written by Marv Wolfman art by John Buscema The morbidly obese, mutant native has had enough of his sad life and throws himself upon Wolverine’s claws. As the life begins to drain from his enormous body, his evil avatar, Black Shadow continues its course of destruction – making one, last desperate move to kill Mai before it disappears with the mutant’s death. Can Wolverine save her in time?

Devil-Slayer in “Lost Souls” part 2 written by Dwight Zimmerman art by Rodney Ramos   As Devil-Slayer (Eric Payne) continues to protect the poor village of Potega from the revolutionary goverment’s attacks, Colonel McCloskey wonders how the protector can be bought off. When he meets with the Slayer, they discover that they fought together in Vietnam. McCloskey is intrigued by Payne’s high-tech weaponry and asks Payne to step aside – to no avail. Later that night, the village throws a party in honor of Eric and the protection he offers them. Meanwhile, Colonel Ramirez of the People’s Liberation Army and the Flying Dutchman meet with McCloskey – they offer him weaponry on par with Payne’s. The price? His soul!

Captain America in “Old Glories“ written by Len Wein with Deni Loubert art by Steve Bucellato Captain America is visiting with with some vets at the Veterans’ Administration Hospital in Arlington, Virginia when some armed revolutionaries break in to steal some radioactive isotopes. Cap manages to stop most of them but their leader has the isotope and a nurse held hostage. It’s up to the vets to step in and lend a hand.

Arabian Knight in “A Father’s Love“ written by Scott Lobdell art by Don Perlin Abdul Qamar (the Arabian Knight) returns from trading goods in the city to find his village has been attacked by a demon. But, before he arrives, he is warned by Saja – Messenger of the Desert Gods – that only deceit and death await him. With caution thrown to the winde, the Arabian Knight continues on to his house and discovers that the demon has possessed his new-born son. The demon convinces the villagers and the Knight that they only way they can be freed, is if he kills his son. Will the Knight sacrifice his son to end the evil of the Demon of the Dunes?

I’m so glad that the Wolverine/Shadows storyline is over. It was a very drawn-out, boring story that should have been over in about 24 pages instead of 80. The Devil-Slayer story is really keeping my interest and the other two features were neat stories of humanity’s courage and love. To top it all off, John Byrne provides a neat wraparound cover!

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Devil-Slayer | Captain America | Arabian Knight
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Devil-Slayer | Captain America

Marvel Comics Presents launched in 1988 as an ad-free anthology showcasing four eight-page features, stuffed inside a wrap-around cover. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Cover Date: 1990 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Rob Liefeld

Wolverine in “Black Shadow, White Shadow” part 9 written by Marv Wolfman art by John Buscema White Shadow realizes that the only way to stop Black Shadow is to kill the mutant native that spawned them both. When Black Shadow interferes, Wolverine decides that it’s up to him to take down the mutant. But, he spawns more Black Shadows to protect himself. Meanwhile, the main Black Shadow has defeated its counterpart. And, as Wolverine is about to deliver the killing blow to the mutant, the Black Shadow has Mai in the same position.

Devil-Slayer in “Lost Souls” part 1 written by Dwight Zimmerman art by Rodney Ramos The Flying Dutchman offers Devil-Slayer excellent food and women – and then offers him a deal from Mephisto: power, wealth and women for the price of his soul. Devil-Slayer quickly refuses the deal and the Dutchman departs but not before he reveals that the Slayer’s soul is already lost – all that remains undecided is which underworld ruler will lay possess it. Devil-Slayer is dispatched to a Central American town called Potega which he quickly saves from an attacking squad of mercenaries. The Slayer makes a deal with Father Perone, Potega’s priest, to protect the town in the hopes of redeeming his soul.

Aquarian in “A Gift of Death“ written by Fabian Nicieza art by Hugh Haynes Aquarian offers comfort to a young woman who’s husband was just killed by her brother. She reveals that her husband was an FBI agent who was going to put her brother away but, she warned her sibling to run before he could be caught. Her brother decided to solve the situation by killing the agent – but, when his escape went sour, he committed suicide, rather than face imprisonment. With the two most important men in her life now dead, Aquarian (the ever-calm, water-walker that bears a striking resemblance to Jesus Christ) must convince her that her life is stll worth living.

Sub-Mariner in “The Eye That Sees“ written by Hollis Bright art by Dell Barras Namor the Sub-Mariner discovers a humpback whale that has been trapped in a small cove by changing tides. He protects it from the Sabatine Brothers, by crashing their whaling boat. But, weeks later, when the Sub-Mariner has moved on, Manny Sabatine decides to exact his revenge on the whale and now it’s up to a young, animal-lover to save the whale.

Liefeld’s created a vicious-looking Wolverine cover here – just a short while before he launched Image Comics with several other big artists. The Sub-Mariner’s story got a bit eco-preachy and has a Free Willie vibe to it. The Aquarian features seems very random – especially since I can’t place any other important appearances in other books at the time. The same goes for Devil-Slayer but I’m interested to see where his soul-redeeming storyline is going.

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Devil-Slayer | Aquarian | Sub-Mariner
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Devil-Slayer | Sub-Mariner

Marvel Comics Presents launched in 1988 as an ad-free anthology showcasing four eight-page features, stuffed inside a wrap-around cover. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Cover Date: 1990 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Kevin O’Neill

Wolverine in “Black Shadow, White Shadow” part 8 written by Marv Wolfman art by John Buscema Soon after Black Shadow emerged from the obese native’s chest (and subsequently began attacking Wolverine), the White Shadow also entered the temple through the same portal as his polar opposite. White Shadow explains that both creatures are manifestations of the obese mutant – forever engaged in a conflict that must end with the other’s death.

Wonder Man in “Stardust Miseries” conclusion written by Michael Higgins art by Javier Saltares As the Enchantress‘ machine begins to suck the life energies out of the Wasp, Hank Pym, Thor, Iron Man and Captain America, it transfers their power to Wonder Man. But, his newfound strength creates an awareness that breaks the Enchantress’ spell over him. Wielding Mjolnir (the hammer of Thor!), he defeats the villainness and frees his fellow Avengers before they are completely drained!

Hulk in “the Main Event“ written by Peter David art by Herb Trimpe The Incredible Hulk challenges Hulk Hogan – the winner gets to keep the name “Hulk”!

Shooting Star in “Bang Bang, Shoot Shoot“ written by Robert Campanella art by Jose Delbo At a county fair in Texas, a carnival sharp shooter named Black Billy challenges Shooting Star (of the Rangers, Texas’ very own super-hero team) to a shoot out. But, when she bests him, he doesn’t take it too well – and he kidnaps a bus full of little girls to lure her into a trap. Now, Shooting Star will have to summon up her sharp-shooting skills to take out Billy’s gang and free the children.

After a number of mediocre issues, this one reminds me of the fun this series can be. In a quick story by Peter David, the Incredible Hulk takes on Hulk Hogan! I’m sure this was the fodder for fan fiction and speculation for years – but it’s fun to see it acknowledged in continuity. After all, the Incredible Hulk debuted in 1963 – Hulk Hogan in 1977. So, if it’s a question of “Who Came First?” then the Green Goliath takes the cake. This issue answers the question: “Who’s the strongest?” And, as if that wasn’t neat enough – Wonder Man wields the hammer of Thor in this issue. A feat that has not been accomplished by most of Marvel’s characters (aside from Captain America and a few others).

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Wonder Man | Shooting Star | Hulk
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Wonder Man | Hulk

Marvel Comics Presents launched in 1988 as an ad-free anthology showcasing four eight-page features, stuffed inside a wrap-around cover. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Cover Date: 1990 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Bryan Hitch

Wolverine in “Black Shadow, White Shadow” part 7 written by Marv Wolfman art by John Buscema Wolverine enters the temple and finds his friends (Mai & Ch’un) chained up. White Shadow appears and recommends that Wolverine runs away – he can’t stop Black Shadow forever, after all. But, the X-Man doesn’t heed the warning and he explores the temple further. He discovers a morbidly obese native sitting on a throne, near motionless. Moments later, a portal opens in his chest and Black Shadow emerges to attack Wolverine.

Wonder Man in “Stardust Miseries” part 7 written by Michael Higgins art by Javier Saltares At Avengers Mansion, Captain America and Thor discover a badly beaten Beast. Meanwhile, the Enchantress has hooked up Ant-Man, the Wasp and Iron Man to her assimilation machine. She intends to drain them of their life forces and imbue them within Wonder Man, enhancing his powers to all-new levels! Cap and Thor attempt to come to the rescue but, they’re bested by Wonder Man and the Enchantress – and then hooked into the machine, as well!

Dr. Strange in “Trashed“ written by Roy Thomas art by Dave Simons When Doctor Strange is called to a neighboring dimension by his amulet, his apprentice, Rintrah is left to help Wong with household chores – like taking the garbage out. Putting his newly learned spells to work, he animates the garbage to have it take itself out. But, since he’s still new at this, the spell doesn’t quite work as planned and ends up creating a garbage monster rampaging through Greenwich Village. Can he set things right before his master returns?

Puma in “… And Not A Drop To Drink“ written by Dan Mishkin art by Gavin Curtis Puma is faced with a lizard-monster that wants his family’s sacred land. The lizard offers to teach Puma the ancient ways and the ability to transform reality if he will just give his land over. Can Puma deduce the reason the lizard wants the land and then satisfy both it and his family tribe?

This issue features early work by now-popular atist, Bryan Hitch. I haven’t read many Doctor Strange stories but, I’ve always enjoyed the ones that feature Rintrah. This issue was no exception and the Doctor Strange story was easily my favorite of the four. But, that’s only because it was truly a Rintrah story (not a Dr. Strange tale, as it was billed).

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Wonder Man | Doctor Strange | Puma
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Wonder Man | Doctor Strange

Marvel Comics Presents launched in 1988 as an ad-free anthology showcasing four eight-page features, stuffed inside a wrap-around cover. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Cover Date: 1990 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Erik Larsen

Wolverine in “Black Shadow, White Shadow” part 6 written by Marv Wolfman art by John Buscema The next morning, Wolverine wakes to find that Mai and Ch’un have left without him. And, as they near a deteriorating temple, they can hear the White Shadow and Black Shadow arguing. Inside the temple, Wolverine’s friends are met with an approaching shadow … and a growing sensation of fear.

Wonder Man in “Stardust Miseries” part 6 written by Michael Higgins art by Javier Saltares Hank Pym and the Beast use Tony Stark’s Modified Image Projector to send Iron Man’s image to meet up with Wonder Man and the Enchantress (and their captured Wasp). The Enchantress uses one of her spells to turn the image into the actual Iron Man and inadvertently transports the Beast and Pym along with him. The villains manage to subdue the Avengers and the Enchantress begins planning her next experiment!

Iron Man in “Donovan’s Brains“ written by Ed Simmons art by Mark Bagley Stark Enterprises enters into a deal with Donovan Robotics due to their advancements in neural-network robots. Part of the terms is that Stark will help Donovan out with their industrial espionage problems. Months later, the problem rears its head in the form of a virus at Donovan Robotics. Iron Man steps in to take care of the situation but his armor’s higher functions are temporarily shut down, as a result. Moments later, he’s attacked by several robots – and it looks like Donovan is leading them. He hopes to add the secrets of the Iron Man armor to his robots to create invincible fighting machines. Can our hero stay alive long enough for his system to reboot?

Siryn in “Hello Little Girl … Is Your Father Home?“ written by Scott Lobdell art by Larry Stroman Mr. McFadden and Teleplex send the Kinsmen (Wee One, Boulder, Highlander, Dyke, Rapscallion) to Cassidy Keep to escort Banshee in for a debriefing. His daughter, Siryn, answers the door and launches into battle with Ireland’s recently formed answer to the Avengers. And, despite being outnumbered, she makes short work of these “green” heroes.

As a fan of Erik Larsen’s 90s style of art, this cover really appeals to me. Unfortunately, not much else is really doing it for me in this issue. I’m really looking forward to being done with both Wolverine and Wonder Man’s features. Iron Man’s story was pretty ho-hum and Siryn’s was the best … but only by default. Interestingly enough, it debuted an Irish super-heroine named Dyke. My inner teenager gets a lot of laughs out of that. :-p

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Wonder Man | Iron Man | Siryn
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Wonder Man | Iron Man

Marvel Comics Presents launched in 1988 as an ad-free anthology showcasing four eight-page features, stuffed inside a wrap-around cover. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Cover Date: 1990 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Bob Layton

Wolverine in “Black Shadow, White Shadow” part 5 written by Marv Wolfman art by John Buscema Wolverine leaps onto the lead horse, leads him away from his companions (Mai, Hsiao and Ch’un), and the herd follow. But, what spooked the horses to begin with? When they reach the source, they discover it’s the Black Shadow. Hsiao grabs his grenades and launches a suicide attack on the monster. Unfortunately the Black Shadow is hardly affected by the explosion. Soon, the White Shadow appears and warns off Wolverine, Mai and Ch’un so that it can do battle with Black Shadow, without harming them.

Wonder Man in “Stardust Miseries” part 5 written by Michael Higgins art by Javier Saltares After blinking out, last issue, Wonder Man re-appears in the Enchantress‘ place in Beverly Hills. In her new plan, she changes Simon’s appearance to look like Hank Pym (formerly Ant-Man/Goliath/Giant-Man/Yellowjacket) and sends him to capture the Wasp. Amora intends to use her as bait to lure the rest of the Avengers to their deaths.

Union Jack in “the Establishment“ written by Fabian Nicieza art by Kieron Dwyer The latest Union Jack (Joey Chapman) has dedicated his life to protecting the people of the United Kingdom – even against their own government officials and policemen. Patrolling at night, he discovers some cops attempting to arrest some hooligans vandalizing London’s landmarks. Suprisingly, Union Jack leaps into action against the police, allowing the graffiti artists to run free. But, when he discovers the same punks are going to hit Falsworth Manor (the home of the original Union jack), will he still stand up for their right to protest against the “old ways”?

Daughters of the Dragon in “Armed and Dangerous“ written by Jo Duffy art by Chris Tsuda Mr. Vandenberger has hired Misty Knight and Colleen Wing to put an end to the threats of terrorism on his family circus. And, he’s shocked when they reveal that the villain is none other than his own brother, who stands to inherit the other half of the family business.

After much confusion over the cover date, the indicia has been simplified to just the year, now. Union Jack’s story stands out as the most heartfelt of the four features and lends some interesting insight into his inner character.

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Wonder Man | Daughters of the Dragon | Union Jack
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Wonder Man | Daughters of the Dragon | Union Jack