Marvel Studios is expanding the universe of Fantastic Four: First Steps with an exciting new prequel. Additionally, the comic will give fans more insight into the origins of Marvel’s iconic heroes. Moreover, the prequel bridges the gap between the events of the film and the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). As a result, it adds new layers to the stories of the beloved characters.
Returning Stars and MCU Connections in Fantastic Four: First Steps
The Fantastic Four: First Steps was released this past July in the United States. The film was directed by Matt Shakman and featured an all-star cast.
- Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards / Mister Fantastic
- Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm / Invisible Woman
- Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm / The Thing
- Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm / Human Torch
All four actors are confirmed to return in the upcoming MCU films Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. Consequently, the prequel comic is a must-read for fans following the cinematic timeline. Furthermore, the Fantastic Four will play a key role in these massive crossovers. By exploring their origins and early battles, fans will gain a richer understanding of the team’s journey.
What Is the Prequel for Fantastic Four: First Steps About?
According to The Direct, Marvel Comics has recently announced a new prequel comic titled Fantastic Four: First Foes. Specifically, it is written by Dan Slot and illustrated by Mark Buckingham, and this one-shot is set to be released on March 4, 2026.
The comic’s logline teases:
“As the Fantastic Four rise to become the heroes we know today, the Mad Thinker becomes determined to get his proper due by turning the city of tomorrow against its heroic patrons!”
In particular, this storyline promises a deeper look at the early challenges the team faced, highlighting both their heroic qualities and the growing threats in their world. As a result, fans can expect an engaging mix of action, science, and character-driven storytelling.
Cover Art and Story Highlights
The cover art, designed by Phil Noto, showcases the Fantastic Four facing off against the Mad Thinker. In addition, the comic will feature:
- A two-page Fantastic Science strip written by Ryan North, emulating the educational TV program hosted by Reed Richards in-universe
- The first installment of four quarterly in-universe comics, all set to release throughout 2026
- Stories that expand on key moments and characters from First Steps, giving fans new insights into the MCU’s Fantastic Four.
The Direct also notes:
“Alongside the battle with the Mad Thinker, the comic will feature an original two-page Fantastic Science strip written by Ryan North (the current writer of Fantastic Four comics), emulating the educational television program that Reed Richards hosts in his Marvel universe. Fantastic Four: First Foes will be the first of four quarterly in-universe comic stories, releasing throughout 2026. Each of these new stories will tie into the characters and world of the movie, expanding on moments or characters featured in First Steps.”
These additions are designed not just to entertain, but also to build the MCU’s continuity, allowing fans to explore the Fantastic Four universe beyond the big screen.
Previous Prequel and Continuity
Interestingly, this isn’t the first prequel comic for First Steps. Last July, shortly before the film’s release, Fantastic Four: First Steps #1 came out, written by Matt Fraction with art by Mark Buckingham. This new prequel continues to build on that foundation, further enriching the MCU’s storytelling.
For fans of the MCU, these prequels offer a closer look at the early dynamics between team members and villains, giving context to the alliances, conflicts, and heroic decisions seen in the films.
Expanding the MCU Universe
Overall, Marvel’s approach with these prequels shows the studio’s commitment to creating a multi-layered universe. In this way, comics and films complement each other. Furthermore, by exploring untold stories, such as the Mad Thinker’s schemes and Reed Richards’ scientific endeavors, Marvel keeps fans engaged between movie releases.
Additionally, these stories foreshadow major events and could set up new storylines for the Fantastic Four in upcoming MCU crossovers. Consequently, fans can imagine how the early challenges faced in the comics might influence the team’s actions in Avengers: Doomsday and beyond.
With the release of Fantastic Four: First Foes, Marvel Studios gives fans a deeper dive into the Fantastic Four’s journey. By linking the prequel comics to the cinematic universe, Marvel continues to expand its rich narrative. This approach provides more context and excitement for future MCU events.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the comics or a newcomer following the MCU, these prequels promise fresh stories, exciting battles, and deeper character insights. Moreover, they are essential reading for anyone invested in the Marvel universe.
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