Strikeforce #1 – 2019 marks the explosive launch of a dark, high-stakes team-up series from Marvel Comics, written by Tini Howard with intense, moody artwork by Germán Peralta. This debut issue forges a grittier path through the Marvel Universe, gathering a formidable cast of characters who operate in the shadows, far from the polished frontlines of the Avengers.

At the centre of this opening chapter is Blade, who leads a team of unconventional heroes including Angela, Wiccan, Winter Soldier, Monica Rambeau (Spectrum), Hellstrom, and Spider-Woman. The story kicks off with a deadly bio-magic threat tied to a clandestine invasion, pushing these morally grey figures into action where typical superheroes would falter. The tone is far darker than many mainstream titles, with supernatural horror, espionage, and mistrust all playing crucial roles in shaping the dynamic between team members.

Tini Howard’s writing is sharp and loaded with tension. Each character is drawn with depth and distinct voice, avoiding generic team-up tropes. The mistrust among team members feels earned, and the tone evokes a sense of secrecy, danger, and tactical violence. This isn’t a team built on friendship—it’s one forged out of necessity. Howard also leverages Blade’s experience with the supernatural to steer the narrative, making him the anchor of the story without dominating the spotlight.

Artist Germán Peralta delivers atmospheric, shadow-drenched visuals that suit the narrative’s darker underpinnings. His depiction of mystical entities and off-grid locales lends a heavy sense of menace and suspense, while the characters themselves are rendered with sharp expressions and kinetic detail. The inking and colour palette favour shadows and deep hues, enhancing the noir-infused aesthetic of the comic.

Strikeforce #1 is ideal for readers seeking a more serious, horror-tinged Marvel series that dares to explore ethical ambiguity and underused characters. It’s a series that isn’t afraid to get its hands dirty, making it a bold addition to any collection.

Now available from a UK-based online comic book store, this first issue ships with fast shipping & secure packaging. As standard, this comic is bagged and boarded with an acid-free bag and board and sent to you in a book wrap/mailer, preserving its condition from our store to your shelf.