Writer Neil Gaiman, however, crafted an especially interesting alternative to mainstream Marvel with 1602. Marvel Noir offers us the Marvel Universe as seen through a smokey glass-half-empty lens, with tales of Daredevil, X-Men and Spider-Man changed to fit in this strange new setting.

Tales spin-off in so many different directions that these stories become viable alternative versions of the Marvel Universe, just with a variation upon a theme. Even discounting the Ultimate line, Marvel has produced any number of alternative continuity worlds within the past decade or so – not stories or chapters, but worlds. Marvel 1602 is not only a simple and brilliant concept it is a thoroughly enjoyable graphic novel all round.ħ/10 Not only a simple and brilliant concept, it is a thoroughly enjoyable graphic novel.After spending the tail end of last year looking at the tangled inter-continuity crossovers at Marvel, I thought I’d spend January looking at some of the looser “out of continuity” tales at the major companies.Īlthough DC invented the term “elseworlds” to describe alternative continuities featuring familiar characters in unfamiliar settings, it was really Marvel who ran with it. This graphic novel will without a doubt satisfy fans of Marvel and Gaiman alike, and those outside of that bracket will still find a riveting read containing a healthy dose of magic and politics. Kubert's illustrations are wonderfully coupled with the colouring work of Richard Isnove, who completes the Gothic look of the graphic novel. The art serves to give the reader an atmosphere, a sense of time place and largely mood.

The beauty of this concept is that they are still the same characters, with all the quirks comic book fans love no character has been compromised, they simply have been moved in time.Īndy Kubert's art sets a dark tone for a plot full of political intrigue.

And Daredevil, naturally is no longer a Hell's Kitchen lawyer/vigilante, rather he is a bard and a spy for Sir Fury. For instance Nick Fury of SHIELD, is now Sir Nicholas Fury, head of the Queen's intelligence organization. This hypothetical is explored in Gaiman's trademark manner using a mix of history and mythology to bring new elements to the characters, while still ensuring that they retain their defining qualities. Marvel 1602 is a great read for Marvel and Gaiman fans alike (it's a real treat, if like myself you are a huge fan of both) which presents a rich concept to explore: What would Marvel superheroes have been like in the 17th century? Illustrated by Andy Kubert Digital painting by Richard Isanove

1602 neil gaiman