Marvel is introducing a new version of Wolverine in the Ultimate Universe, set to debut in his own comic series in 2025. Unlike the mainstream Marvel Universe, where Wolverine is known as a heroic figure, this new Ultimate Wolverine will be a brutal, merciless killer under the codename of another iconic character: the Winter Soldier.
This change presents Wolverine in a darker light, depicting him as a relentless weapon in a corrupt universe. The series offers a fresh take on the beloved character by merging aspects of Wolverine with the more ruthless persona of the Winter Soldier.
The new series, Ultimate Wolverine, was announced at Marvel’s Next Big Thing panel at New York Comic Con. It will be written by Chris Condon, known for his work on the creator-owned title That Texas Blood, and illustrated by Alessandro Cappuccio, who is currently working on Moon Knight: Fist of Khonshu.
This collaboration promises to bring a gritty and intense narrative style to the Ultimate Universe, especially with Condon’s history of deep, character-driven stories and Cappuccio’s dynamic art.
In this storyline, Logan, as the Winter Soldier, serves as the ultimate weapon of the Maker, a villain who has reshaped the Ultimate Universe to serve his own interests. The Maker’s influence has turned Wolverine into an unwilling agent, mind-wiped and forced to carry out deadly missions.
As Tony Stark and the Ultimates try to overthrow the Maker, Wolverine’s role as a remorseless assassin adds a dark twist to the unfolding conflict, raising questions about whether he can ever regain control of his own fate.
Marvel has also revealed cover art for Ultimate Wolverine #1, including a main cover by Cappuccio and variant covers by artists Steve Skroce and Gleb Melnikov. These designs highlight Wolverine’s altered appearance, including a distinctive red star on his costume and a muzzle on his mask, symbolizing his loss of autonomy and his transformation into a “wild” and dangerous figure.
This visual representation emphasizes the themes of control and savagery central to the new Wolverine’s identity in this universe.
Writer Chris Condon expressed his enthusiasm for the project, noting how he intends to bring his signature storytelling style from That Texas Blood to Wolverine’s character.
He hints at deeper layers to the new Wolverine, suggesting that his new look and role as the Winter Soldier will tie into a broader narrative about control, freedom, and identity. Ultimate Wolverine #1 is scheduled to hit shelves on January 15, 2025, promising fans a fresh and darkly compelling reimagining of one of Marvel’s most iconic characters.
