A second Iron Night brings with it consequences, and Cyclops has some explaining to do on behalf of the X-Men. But even a born leader can reach a breaking point - and Cyclops has had to do ever so much explaining recently…
Diaz delivers visually stunning art throughout the issue. I love the style of the characters as well as the dynamic details of the action. Read Full Review
The sins of Scott Summers are answered with a knock-down, drag out fight! MacKay unloads on the frustration of events with his writing. Diaz and the art give fans a fight for the ages. The Children of the Atom never cease to get readers talking! Read Full Review
Overall, X-Men #20 is a character driven issue in which a lot of the action and superhero plot takes a backseat to a deeply personal conflict between two characters who are diametrically opposed to one another's ideological positions on mutant-human relations. It is an issue that is true to the mythos and core themes that have dominated X-Men comics since their inception, and is fully consistent with Scott Summer's characterization in the comics, both as a mutant and a leader of the X-Men. Read Full Review
X-Men #20 is a critical juncture in this era of mutant storytelling. Cyclops stands at the crossroadshis leadership scrutinized, his resolve tested, and his future as a leader more uncertain than ever. Its an emotionally raw chapter, where a second Iron Night doesn't forge him stronger, but forces him to reckon with the weight of his choices. For those invested in the moral complexity of this X-Men era, this issue poses the true question: how much can one man carry before the burden fractures himor the movement he leads? Read Full Review
The art definitely saves X-Men #20 from being a total miss, with its striking visuals and well-executed dramatic moments. However, the comic is severely hampered by its rambling plot, non-essential dialogue, and a cliffhanger that feels more like a gentle nudge than a thrilling drop. While the premise has potential, the execution feels more like treading water than forging ahead, leaving readers wanting more substance and less chatter. Read Full Review
X-Men #20 is a slow-paced issue that I once would have loved. But on the heels of so many unresolved and interrupted stories, that slow pace becomes a detriment rather than a feature. The character interactions are strong, but it's hard not to be frustrated by the lack of progress and the “mystery box” style of storytelling. Read Full Review
Good art, great writing. I would have liked a little more action, but this had some good character development and progression of the "how the X-Men fit in with the public" plot. Another good issue in a good X-Men story. MacKay is one of my favorite writers currently, he's knocking it out of the park.
The conversation between Cyclops and Lundqvist has its interesting moments, but generally, this book suffers from clumsy writing and hideous art. I can't wait for Age of Revelation to put an end to this terrible run.