A really great issue. Good pacing. Great story. Great art. Excellent premise. Really neat cliffhanger. Read Full Review

The only reason this did not get a perfect 10 is that it is the first issue so it can end up being a total bust and I'm also not sold on the idea of this taking place is more than just the X books. It seems like you'll have to buy Indestructable Hulk and Superior Spider-Man specials #1-#3 as well. Not crazy about that. Read Full Review

Still, a solid if understated script still can work well, particularly when the characterization and artwork are all on-point. All-New X-Men Special #1 might not be one for the record books, but it's definitely a fun diversion that shows how well Marvel's various properties can fit together. If nothing else, come for the characters and stay for Kris Anka's gorgeous art. Read Full Review

Much of the appeal with this issue rests on the fact that it's Anka's first full-length sequential work at Marvel. He doesn't disappoint, bringing the same sense of energy and strong design work that have characterized his covers. The characters are simple but expressive, and the overall style manages to pay homage to the X-Men's Silver Age roots while still offering the sort of ferocious action you expect from modern superhero fare. We'll just have to see how well the crossover holds up as other artists tackle the remaining two issues. Read Full Review

"All-New X-Men Special" #1 is a delightful throwback comic book that delivers a succinct story, embedded in current continuity without having that continuity weigh it down. There is no mistaking the current predicaments of the characters involved, but Costa doesn't bludgeon the reader with unnecessary exposition. Instead, Costa settles into the story, sets the action in motion and delivers a comic book worthy of what Marvel Annuals used to deliver: an extra-sized story with connections to other books. The story begun in this comic may continue elsewhere, but "All-New X-Men Special" #1 is a satisfying read all by itself. Read Full Review

A fun story that is really interesting will keep me around for the rest of the crossover. Hopefully more stories like this will happen in the future if this is successful. Read Full Review

If you want more from our favorite Spider-Ock I recommend picking up this issue and the rest of the Arms of the Octopus story. It may have long lasting effects that will be Superior. Read Full Review

While the plot may be a bit standard, Mike Costa, Kris Anka and Jordie Bellaire does give us a nice read thanks to the excellent characterization and the subtle touches in the art and colorization. It's altogether an enjoyable ride. Read Full Review

All-New X-Men Special #1 is an entertaining start to an arc that has a lot of potential. Kudos to the creative team as this one comes recommended. Read Full Review

It's pretty cool though, at this point I think Marvel is getting a little nuts with Time Travel, but maybe this isn't time travel stuff, perhaps it's cloning? That hasn't been done in a while right? Oh"never mind. Read Full Review

This was an interesting set up issue. Readers are left with questions as the next chapter approaches, and teaming up with the Hulk usually ends in destruction. Mike Costa is telling a fun story that puts the original five outside of their book and it is worth a read. If you have a light week on your pull list, or are a big X-Men fan, this should be a story to check out. Read Full Review