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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: June 1989 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Walter Simonson

Cyclops in “the Retribution Affair” part 5 written by Bob Harras art by Ron Lim   Cyclops unleashes his optic beam on Conscience and we’re then treated to a rare sight – Cyclops has his visor off … but no power is coming out! No doubt, this is an effect of the Retribution Virus that has infected him and other nearby mutants, including Callisto. Conscience reveals that as the virus kills you, your mutant powers begin to fade. Meanwhile, back at the hospital where the disease was found, we discover that it has begun infecting humans, as well! In an ironic twist, the virus designed to kill only mutants has, itself, mutated. Conscience bids that Master Mold intercept the virus’ complete infection of Earth for fear of killing humanity along with mutants. But, Master Mold has decided to continue with the plan, coldly calculating that all mutants will die … and almost all humans will die from it. But, since not all of humanity will perish (a measly 7.6% will survive), it is an acceptable cost to win the war against mutation.

Black Panther in “Panther’s Quest” part 9 written by Don McGregor art by Gene Colan   Eugene Van Der Merwe has just shot the Black Panther . But, our hero is strong enough to fight through the flesh wound in his waist to challenge the soldier – man to man! He quickly defeats Eugene and subjects him to the tear gas that was just being inflicted upon the village. And, as he turns around, the Panther comes face to face with militia reinforcements.

Paladin in “Let’s Take It From Where I Swing In And Rescue You …“ written by Scott Lobdell art by Ron Wilson   One job leads Paladin to another that leads him to another and so on and so forth until he comes face to face with intergalactic warlords who plan to use Earth as an armory. And, using his wits, he’s able to make them beat a hasty retreat. But hey! Who’s going to foot the bill for saving the entire planet?

the Thing in “The First Cut” written by Peter Gillis art by Ron Lim     A super-powered man named Rico has returned to his life to discover his girlfriend, Maria, is now marrying his friend, Tony. So, Maria seeks out someone who will understand their situation – the Thing (he went away for a while during the Secret Wars – when he returned, his girlfriend, Alicia, had married the Human Torch). When the Thing finds Rico (who’s now going by the name Ripper), he discovers that the young man isn’t interested in having a heart-to-heart. More like a fist-to-face!

I must say I’m not a huge fan of characters breaking the fourth wall – and it was even stranger to see Paladin doing it in his solo tale. I thought the Thing’s story had a lot of potential for characterization but ultimately failed to live up to it.

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Cyclops | Black Panther | Paladin | the Thing
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Cyclops | Black Panther | Thing

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: May 1989 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Mike Mignola

Cyclops in “the Retribution Affair” part 4 written by Bob Harras art by Ron Lim   With Banshee and Mary Campbell in their possession, Master Mold and Conscience (a cybernetic being created from the engrams of Steven Lang) decided they want to capture Cyclops and Moira next. Back on Muir Island, Moira reveals that Cyclops and Callisto have contracted the Retribution Virus. And, soon after hearing the bad news, they’re assaulted by Conscience and the Servitors.

Black Panther in “Panther’s Quest” part 8 written by Don McGregor art by Gene Colan   The Black Panther fights through the tear gas to take down a militia pickup armed with a swivel gun. But, even the Panther cannot have eyes everywhere … and is taken down by a bullet!

Dr. Strange in “Nightmare in Suburbia” conclusion written by Fabian Nicieza art by Mark Badger   Doctor Strange completes his extermination of the Windhart’s demon infestation by using the Eye of Agamotto, which sees only the light of innocence and hope. But, the family’s renewed safety comes with a steep price.

Clea in “At The Bottom Of My Garden” written by Peter Gillis art by Ron Lim   Clea‘s new role as the ruler of the Dark Dimension has begun to wear on her so she goes for a walk to clear her mind. Her mind-clearing leads her to discover parts of the Dark Dimension that she’s never seen before! In the new garden she finds, she is attacked by the area’s guardian. It was created by Dormammu (the previous ruler of the Dark Dimension) to defeat everyone … even himself! However, Clea manages to defeat the guardian by using Light Magic taught her by Doctor Strange. And, with the guardian gone – the prize is hers to claim. But, what treasure could be so valued or feared that Dormammu had to hide it behind a near-indestructible guardian? [Answer: A beautiful flower!]

Mike Mignola, the creator of Hellboy, drew this issue’s haunting Master Mold cover. And, Dormammu doesn’t make an appearance in the Clea story – but that doesn’t stop it from providing an interesting look into his character.

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Cyclops | Black Panther | Doctor Strange
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Cyclops | Black Panther | 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: May 1989 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Rob Liefeld

Cyclops in “the Retribution Affair” part 3 written by Bob Harras art by Ron Lim   Master Mold reveals to his hypnotized captive, Moira Mactaggert, that he is actually Stephen Lang – a human mind trapped within the Sentinel robot, after Cyclops destroyed his mortal body. His companion computer, Conscience, discovers that Sean Cassidy has contracted the mutant-killing Retribution Virus that Master Mold made Moira create. Late in the night, Master Mold dispatches his Servitors to capture the virus-stricken Sean Cassidy (aka Banshee) and Mary Campbell (a young telekinetic). Their large numbers are too many for even Cyclops to stop them all!

Black Panther in “Panther’s Quest” part 7 written by Don McGregor art by Gene Colan   In this issue, we’re introduced to Sarah Slade, wife of Patrick Slade (the informant that lured Black Panther to South Africa on promises of news about his mother). The Black Panther ventures to the Slades’ artifact shop after thanking Zanti for his help and setting him loose from any obligation he might feel to continue helping. But, on his way home, Zanti discovers a militia man on the lookout and can’t keep himself from getting involved on the Panther’s behalf. And, while the Panther converses with Sarah Slade, the militia unleashes tear gas upon the area.

Dr. Strange in “Nightmare in Suburbia” part 1 written by Fabian Nicieza art by Mark Badger   Doctor Strange travels to Minerva, Ohio to rid Mary Windhart’s home of the demon infestation that she is somehow unaware of. And, after defeating her infested son, Bobby – the husband arrives home … and he’s not looking too healthy, either.

Damage Control in “Overture” written by Dwayne McDuffie art by Ernie Colon   After the super-heroes and villains destroy the city during their battles … who cleans up the mess? Why, Damage Control does! Rival super-clean-up broker, John Porter, is looking to horn in on their business, though. His latest stop is Josie’s Bar, where Daredevil and Turk are battling it out. After the bar gets leveled by a grenade, Damage Control steps in and replaces it near-instantly! Mrs. Hoag catches up with the ambitious Porter and offers him a job with Damage Control as Account Executive. Needless to say, his story is continued in the first Damage Control mini series (issue #1 also a cover date of May 1989).

This is it! The first appearance of Damage Control. Now, it’s not a mainstay title but, they’ve had four mini series over the years so they do have some importance in the Marvel Universe. Topping off this issue is a cover by Rob Liefeld (who had not yet exploded due to the Image boom).

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Cyclops | Black Panther | Doctor Strange | Damage Control
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Cyclops | Black Panther | Doctor Strange | Damage Control

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: Early May 1989 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: John Byrne

Cyclops in “the Retribution Affair” part 2 written by Bob Harras art by Ron Lim   The next day, Cyclops and Banshee both have the same feeling that something is wrong on Muir Island. The Irish super-hero shares his concerns about Moira’s odd behavior. Moira MacTaggert interrupts their meeting with news that Mary Campbell has fallen ill. The young girl belongs to a family that rents their home from Moira. When the three of them go to investigate, Mary’s brother Bobbie claims that the “Little People … the people in the lights” caused his sister to come down with this deadly infection. Later that night, the “light” attacks Cyclops while Moira, in a daze again, meets with Master Mold! The alpha sentinel explains that both Mary & Bobbie were exposed to the virus but, because Bobbie is human, it didn’t affect him.

Black Panther in “Panther’s Quest” part 6 written by Don McGregor art by Gene Colan   South African Magistrate, Anton Pretorius, meets with Corporal Percy Boraine to discuss the Black Panther‘s presence in their country. He puts the country on alert that an intruder has infiltrated their nation and reinforcement troops are dispatched to the Panther’s last-known location. Meanwhile, in that same area, the Black Panther and Zanti Chikane have reached their goal: the Panther’s sonar glider.

She-Hulk in “X-Mas Tease…“ written by John Byrne art by John Byrne   This tale begins as She-Hulk is struggling against that worst of foes: boredom! So, she phones Ben Grimm – otherwise known as the Thing from the Fantastic Four – and she explains how fun it’d be to take on Doctor Doom, Magneto and then Galactus. All in the same day! After her phone call, she reaches under her tree to open a present from Marvel Comics. It’s a box full of Sensational She-Hulk #1’s. We’ve been had – this was all just to promote her then-upcoming series (it debuted this same month).

Willie Lumpkin in “A Christmas Card” written by Glenn Herdling art by Richard Howell   The events of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol are about to befall J. Jonah Jameson but the Ghost Of Christmas Past accidentally loses the ol’ codger’s address! So, he mistakenly descends upon the Fantastic Four’s mailman, Willie Lumpkin. As the Spirit takes Willie through moments in his life, it becomes evident that he’s one of the nicest guys out there. The Spirit has made a huge mistake … but will he realize it before he shows Willie how he dies?

In this issue, the continuing sagas build some more steam but the one and done tales fall flat.

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Cyclops | Black Panther | She-Hulk | Fantastic Four
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Cyclops | Black Panther | She-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: Late April 1989 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Rich Buckler with Bob McLeod

Colossus in “God’s Country” conclusion written by Ann Nocenti art by Rick Leonardi   Colossus rushes back to Bruce and his family. Now that the Cold Warriors have relented their attack, the family has an opportunity to speak with the press. But, Colossus knows that none of this will ever make the papers because the government doesn’t want it to get out.

Black Panther in “Panther’s Quest” part 5 written by Don McGregor art by Gene Colan   Percy Boraine, one of two approaching soldiers, has his gun aimed right for the Black Panther and his new-found friend, Zanti Chikane. The responsibility of soldier life weighs heavily upon him – he’d rather be almost anywhere – and certainly would prefer to be with his beloved Cynthia. In a swift move, the Panther unarms both men and hijacks their army vehicle.

the Watcher in “Do You See What I See?“ written by Scott Lobdell art by Tom Sutton   A cosmic being calling himself one of the Three Wise Men intends to capture the Earth and use it as a birthday gift for another powerful entity. But, before he has a chance to remove Earth from its orbit (destroying mankind), the Watcher breaks his solemn oath and interferes. He bids the Wise Man to pause and allow for the opportunity for the Watcher to show him why humanity should be spared.

Cyclops in “the Retribution Affair” part 1 written by Bob Harras art by Ron Lim   An old friend, Banshee, summons Cyclops to Muir Island where he’s attacked by a mechanized firing squad. He sees Moira walking by, as if in a daze, and then he’s knocked out by a sonic blast. Later, after coming to, he meets with Sean and Moira who claim to know nothing of the prior events. He tells them of the attack but when they go back to look at the destruction from last night’s battle, they find no evidence. Everything is back to the way it had been!

This entire Colossus story was later collected into a prestige format one-shot. It’s an interesting story that’s much more than just your average super-hero story. Beneath the steel skin and bullet-dodging, there’s an interesting comparison between Russia’s government and ours. The story illustrates that Russian’s know how much control their government has but in America, we feel that we’re very free – even though the government actually has more control than we’d like to think. It’s much more thought-provoking than it is entertaining. But, that’s a good thing!
Longshot’s dreamwalking story was pretty bland but the Ka-Zar short had a little more bite with its social commentary. The prim and proper Lemurians wanted to kill the child while the low-society Swamp Men welcomed it with open arms.

The Watcher’s tale is told in a rhyme invoking the style of ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas. It would make for a fun Christmas story to share with your children.

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Colossus | Black Panther | the Watcher | Cyclops
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Colossus | Black Panther | Cyclops

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: Early April 1989 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Kevin Nowlan

Colossus in “God’s Country” part 7 written by Ann Nocenti art by Rick Leonardi   In Bruce’s homestead, Nina struggles to break free from the chains she’s been placed in. Meanwhile, Colossus continues to fight through the Cold Warriors to get to their leader. And, once he gets to the top, the leader reveals to him that America isn’t as “free” as we’d like to believe. He alleges that the CIA has moved from an information gathering branch of the government to an active, militant, shadowy organization that controls the media.

Black Panther in “Panther’s Quest” part 4 written by Don McGregor art by Gene Colan   This issue introduces us to Zanti Chikane, a South African gold miner. As his day begins, he gladly soaks in the sun’s rays. Nearby, those same rays fall upon the badly beaten Black Panther, who is not as welcoming for the rays (and the dehydration they will bring) as Zanti. When Zanti spots the Panther strewn out on the African landscape, he runs to assist him – the good samaritan acts in kindness, knowing full well, that if he’s caught, he will be punished by the authorities. Zanti agrees to help lead the weakened Panther to his Sonar Glider … but, they’re soon spotted by soldiers.

Longshot in “Dreamwalk“ written by Ann Nocenti art by Larry Dixon   While the X-Men leave their headquarters for a night on the town in Australia, Longshot stays home to journey into the Dreamstate. While dreamwalking, he comes across a mischievous creature who wants to play. The two of them leap about headquarters making an absolute mess of everything. But, it’s OK … it’s just a dream … right?

Ka-Zar in “This Is A Savage Land“ written by Dwight Jon Zimmerman art by Jim Mooney   Following the events of Uncanny X-Men Annual #12, there is an uneasy peace in the Savage Land. However, that fragile peace is now threatened – the Swamp Men have captured Queen Leanne of the Lemurians. But, our hero, Ka-Zar has rescued the Queen! On their journey home, he discovers she’s pregnant and when her countrymen learn of it, they threaten to kill her – for she has disgraced her people by breeding with a Swamp Man. And, as the advancing Swamp Men have happened upon the scene, searching for their lost captive, the two groups of Savage Land Dwellers come to blows. Can Ka-Zar save the Queen and her child before they’re torn apart by two worlds?

Here’s another ill-proportioned Colossus cover … but this one I really dig!

Longshot’s dreamwalking story was pretty bland but the Ka-Zar short had a little more bite with its social commentary. The prim and proper Lemurians wanted to kill the child while the low-society Swamp Men welcomed it with open arms.

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Colossus | Black Panther | Longshot | Ka-Zar
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Colossus | Black Panther | Longshot | Ka-Zar

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: Late March 1989 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Ron Lim

Colossus in “God’s Country” part 6 written by Ann Nocenti art by Rick Leonardi   Number Six (or “Nina” as Colossus has named her) protects Bruce and his family from an attacking Cold Warrior, as Bruce’s wife, Roxanne, continues to lose her mind. Meanwhile, Colossus has savagely beaten the other two Cold Warriors. Back at the house, Nina’s programming kicks in and Bruce has to subdue her to keep his family safe.

Black Panther in “Panther’s Quest” part 3 written by Don McGregor art by Gene Colan   After being caught unawares, the Black Panther now finds himself tangled up in barb wire. And, while Elmer Gore and Strike are advancing upon him, Patrick Slade makes a break for it! Somehow, as he’s being beaten by the men, the Panther summons the strength to tear himself free from his barb wire prison and escapes into the jungle. But, he doesn’t get far before his weary body gives up and he collapses.

Marvel Girl in “the Maiden Phoenix“ written by Bobbie Chase art by Dwayne Turner   A strange apparition lures Jean Grey from X-Factor’s Ship into the subway tunnels beneath New York. Behind the subway, she reachers a cavern where she is attacked by the Morlock, Lightning Bug, who intends to transfer her dying spirit into Jean’s body.

Red Wolf in “Desert Tears“ written by Fabian Nicieza art by Javier Saltares   Bengal has severely wounded Red Wolf, and he is now fighting for his life in a hospital room. As the surgeons work on his body, the Wolf Spirit, Owayodata, meets with him in the spirit realm and challenges his worthiness to continue being Red Wolf. In their discussion, Red Wolf tries to balance his commitment to his Cheyenne People vs the commitment to his country, the focal point of which is his involvement in Vietnam that has inflicted some lasting regrets.

Ron Lim sure can draw great shiny effects, can’t he?

The Marvel Girl story was really ineffectual for pulling any emotional strings but, mark it down as yet another Mutant Massacre tie-in. The Red Wolf story was much more emotionally intriguing and expanded upon a bit of Marvel continuity: Red Wolf‘s fellow soldiers massacred the village that Bengal was the sole survivor of in Vietnam. (it should be noted that in Bengal’s first appearance [Daredevil #258], it mentions that a man named Talltrees was a member of the American team of soldiers but this issue clearly defines that the Talltrees mentioned was indeed, Red Wolf).

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Colossus | Black Panther | Jean Grey | Red Wolf
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Colossus | Black Panther | X-Factor | Red Wolf

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: Early March 1989 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Javier Saltares

Colossus in “God’s Country” part 5 written by Ann Nocenti art by Rick Leonardi   Colossus captures one of the attackers and brings her back into the house. She reveals that they call themselves the Cold Warriors – and she’s named Number Six. The Cold Warriors are a team of cybernetically-enhanced C.I.A. agents charged with keeping America free of terrorists. She noted that her leader, Alexander, has a strong fear of the media and since they saw a secret murder in the park, the Cold Warriors have been sent to wipe out all witnesses. Number Six says that she sympathizes with Colossus and the family. She reveals secrets and details about the Cold Warriors – enough to bring them down within the necessary 5 hour window. But, if Colossus is going to go into battle against them, he’ll have to trust Number Six with the family’s safety.

Black Panther in “Panther’s Quest” part 2 written by Don McGregor art by Gene Colan   In whispered conversation, Patrick Slade demands money from the Black Panther in exchange for information about his long-lost mother, Ramonda. Tempting the Panther to produce the cash, Slade offers tidbits and warnings that he won’t like what he’s about to hear. And, while his mind wandered and contemplated all the scenarios of reuniting with his mother, the Panther was caught unawares by an advancing troop of mercs.

Speedball in “the Feathered Felon“ written by Steve Ditko with Jo Duffy art by Steve Ditko   The Feathered Felon steals important documents from D.A. Justin Baldwin and it’s up to his son, Speedball, to recover them!

Nomad in “Angel in the Snow“ written by Fabian Nicieza art by Larry Alexander   When Nomad discovers one of his informants is dead, he sets out to avenge her death by taking down her killer, Umberto Safilios, el Corazon del Cuchillo. But, before he gets the chance, he learns that this drug-runner has some ties to the government. And, the government looks after its own.

Wow! This cover art features a strangely proportioned Colossus!

The Speedball feature was done by the same team that was behind his ongoing series, which was being published at the same time this issue hit the stands. And, it fits in flawlessly with the rest of that series. Although, it should be noted that I don’t mean it as a compliment. This 8-page feature suffers from the same problems that ailed the series: uninteresting villains, no character development, plotting that would fit well in an Archie comic or 1970s Saturday morning cartoon, and artwork that looks like Ditko hasn’t progressed from his 1960s work (not to mention many panels don’t even have backgrounds!).

On a positive note, McGregor’s Black Panther story features some excellent soul-searching on the Panther’s behalf. The Colossus story is really picking up speed and Nicieza’s Nomad was great! It starts off with a pulpish feel and ends with a grating government conspiracy. One that may be a little more likely than we’d care to admit.

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Colossus | Black Panther | Speedball | Nomad
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Colossus | Black Panther | Speedball | Nomad

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: Late February 1989 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Gene Colan

Colossus in “God’s Country” part 4 written by Ann Nocenti art by Rick Leonardi   As Colossus is holed up in Bruce’s house with his family, their neighbors come out to start rumors about what’s going on in their home. Inside, Bruce (a Vietnam Vet) and Colossus (a former Soviet) debate the difference in rights offered by Russia and the USA. Come nightfall, the super-powered assailants from earlier in the story have launched an attack on the house.

Black Panther in “Panther’s Quest” part 1 written by Don McGregor art by Gene Colan   A rumor has brought the Black Panther to South Africa. A rumor important enough for him to break international laws and sneak into another African country that probably wouldn’t recognize his authority as King of Wakanda. Inside, he meets with Patrick Slade, a seemingly unscrupulous man who’s offering more information for a price. The rumor? The Panther’s mother, Ramonda, (who he hasn’t seen since he was three) is alive!

Mr. Fantastic and the Invisible Woman in “Reed’s on the Roof and We Can’t Get Him Down“ written by Chris Henderson art by Mike Harris   Mr. Fantastic has lured a meteor to his home in the suburbs and damaged his roof. Now, he’s got to fill the role of suburban husband and fix the hole but, while he’s up there, he misteps and ends up hanging off the edge of the roof. Now, this would be no problem for Mr. Fantastic but, he’s got a secret identity to maintain. Soooooooooooooo … it’s the Invisible Woman to the rescue!

Shanna the She-Devil in “A Tooth For A Tooth“ written by Bruce Jones art by Bruce Jones   Philip Milford has taken his wife on an African Safari to hunt some wild game. Unfortunately for her, her continued annoyance is soon silenced by his rifle. He radios in to Nairobi Station to explain how a lion attacked his wife and in the struggle, she was accidentally shot. So, the station dispatches Shanna to look into the situation. Will her knowledge of Africa uncover the true murderer?

This issue launches MCP’s most ambitious storyline: Panther’s Quest. It’s 25 chapters and I get the feeling that the amount of space it’s given will allow it plenty of time to effectively strike some emotional chords. Continuing in that theme is the Colossus feature, which is successfully reaching for some interesting comparisons of political and governmental systems.

The Fantastic Four story takes place during one of my favorite eras of the team: when the Thing (in his “Pineapple Thing” form) was the leader and Reed & Sue left for the suburbs. What I’d forgotten was that they actually established secret identities (funny concept: the FF being able to hide their faces … considering they’re celebrities in the Marvel Universe, this would really be near-impossible). However, despite the ridiculous concept of them with secret IDs, it provided the basis for this fun story that I’m sure married men and women will appreciate all the more.

Shanna’s story was a little bland, anti-climatic and far-reaching (the “conservation” message wasn’t given enough room to bloom in only eight pages) but it had some nice-looking art.

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Colossus | Black Panther | Fantastic Four | Shanna
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Colossus | Black Panther | Fantastic Four | Shanna

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: Early February 1989 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Ron Frenz

Colossus in “God’s Country” part 3 written by Ann Nocenti art by Rick Leonardi   Colossus takes on the three super-powered thugs in the park and then escapes with the family who’s son was a witness to the original attack. They turn to the police for help but, when Colossus gets a suspicious feeling about the police, they run off to their country home and hide out.

Man-Thing in “Elements of Terror” conclusion written by Steve Gerber art by Tom Sutton   The mutated Colonel Choate, the monstrous Super Soldier experiments and the other members of the government conspiracy all come head to head in the big blow out! The strong, negative emotions inspired by the confrontation draw the Man-Thing to the scene and cost Choate an arm, in the final battle.

Hercules in “Noble Fathers Have Noble Sons“ written by Chris Henderson art by Don Heck   J. Jonah Jameson promises Lynch a life-time job at the Daily Bugle if he can write an article that captures a super-hero looking bad or misbehaving. The seemingly easiest target? Hercules! Heavy drinker, woman-chaser, and teller of tale tales. However, after following him around for a day, Lynch catches Herc in an act that preserves justice! Now, our reporter’s got to decide whether to make Herc’s actions appear worse than intended … or forego the job by taking the righteous approach.

Namorita in “Spring Break“ written by Scott Lobdell art by Frank Springer   After coming face to face with New York’s ugly side, Namorita decides to take a mental-vacation by returning to her home city of Atlantis. But, upon arriving home, she discovers that Atlantis has its own slums, just as New York does. While there, she comes under attack by the School (Crab, Mussels, Squid, and Seaweed), who rule over the Atlantean slums. After defeating the villains, Arkus and the Alantean army shows up to “save the day” but, Namorita doesn’t feel that their approach to the problem is the right way, either.

After twelve chapters, the Man-Thing story draws to a close. While I certainly appreciate Sutton’s monstrous art and Gerber’s attempt to attach some of the story to the muck monster’s origin – in the end, there was just way too much going on that was all too loosely tied together. It didn’t quite seem like a Man-Thing story so much as it felt like a story guest-starring the Man-Thing. I much prefer J.M. DeMatteis’ take on the character.

Both the Hercules and Namorita features are great illustrations of how to handle the single-feature format. They’re quick, little stories that show some great characterization. However, in this case, I’ve got to hand the biggest kudos over to the Herc story since the Namorita tale seems to fall back upon the standard hero vs super-villains story element that wasn’t needed to prove the point.

Finally, the front cover reminds me of those classic Silver Age, double-feature books like Tales of Suspense and Tales to Astonish. Gotta love nostalgia!

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Colossus | Man-Thing | Hercules | Namorita
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Colossus | Man-Thing | Machine Man | Hercules