World War Hulk is The Hero’s Most Overrated Story

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Beyond just the image of the green giant charging into combat ready to smash an enemy, “Hulk Smash” in Marvel’s World War Hulk event represents his power to break sales records and rule over fan adoration. Even after almost two decades since its initial publication, the World War Hulk storyline remains a fan favorite among the franchise’s greatest tales. The first issue sold out swiftly following its release, necessitating Marvel to produce a second printing. Consequently, many view World War Hulk as the finest Hulk comic ever published.

Although World War Hulk has been praised extensively throughout the years, a detailed examination uncovers a more intricate truth: it appears to be a strong narrative, but its legendary status seems unduly inflated. In essence, while it’s a good storyline, its reputation as exceptional is largely exaggerated.

World War Hulk: A Symphony of Rage

It’s indisputable that the limited series penned by Greg Pak and John Romita, Jr., titled World War Hulk, is a powerful showcase of Hulk-centric storytelling. The narrative unfolds immediately following the heartbreaking denouement of the Planet Hulk saga, where we see the demise of Hulk’s wife Caiera and countless others as their spacecraft detonates. Suspecting that the Illuminati manipulated the explosion, the Hulk vows to return to Earth to seek retribution for his losses and exact revenge upon those he believes are responsible: Iron Man, Reed Richards, Doctor Strange, Professor X, and Black Bolt, the Inhumans’ leader – the same individuals who orchestrated his initial interstellar voyage that ultimately led him to Sakaar.

Upon returning to Earth, I, along with my new comrades from Sakaar, unleash a rampage never before witnessed in the annals of New York City within the Marvel Universe. Our rage is singularly focused on the Illuminati and those who aid or ally with them – essentially every hero residing in the “Big Apple.” However, this fact holds little significance to me in my enraged state, as I effortlessly carve through my adversaries with chilling ease. The destruction continues until I ultimately relinquish my thirst for vengeance and allow Tony Stark’s Iron Man to neutralize me with a gamma radiation-canceling beam.

World War Hulk is Heavy on Artistic Prowess but Light on Storytelling

One notable aspect that makes World War Hulk stand out is its breathtaking artwork. Throughout the comic series, John Romita Jr.’s skillful illustrations shine, showcasing an almost unparalleled level of talent. This is particularly noticeable in the intense fight sequences, such as when the Hulk clashes with his cousin She-Hulk, where Romita, alongside colorist Christina Strain and inker Klaus Janson, skillfully weave a captivating depiction of speed and power using their deft handling of lines and colors. In fact, the visual effects surpass anything that CGI could achieve with this team’s creative touch.

Regardless of how stunning the artwork, a comic that solely boasts impressive images is essentially a gallery of pictures. Without additional depth, the series might end up being flat and unidimensional. Artwork alone seldom contributes to a story arc or series becoming iconic. Conversely, one of World War Hulk‘s notable flaws lies in its absence of an engaging narrative that complements and enhances the stunning visuals. Although the “Hulk seeks revenge” plot is logical given the events on Sakaar, it’s not particularly groundbreaking. It’s a recurring motif in the Hulk’s extensive timeline.

Previously, the Hulk embarked on a vengeful spree following the demise of his most cherished love, Princess Jarella from K’ai, who was slain by Crypto-Man in “The Incredible Hulk” (1968) issue 205. Interestingly, despite his profound affection for Jarella and the fact that he may have been stronger then due to a lack of the self-control provided by intelligence as seen in “World War Hulk”, the rampage caused by her death was less devastating and harmful than the one ignited by Caiera’s demise. Furthermore, while “World War Hulk” depicts the Hulk harboring hatred towards Doctor Strange (among others) due to the suffering he inflicted, it seems as though he has forgotten about the times when Strange tried to aid him, even attempting to revive Jarella after her passing.

World War Hulk is Good, but is it Great?

Next, Pak enhances the “revenge” plot by merging it with the Planet Hulk background, much like Rick Jones’ response in the tale. Yet, it didn’t take long for readers to realize that the Hulk wasn’t genuinely planning to massacre New York’s superhero community. Battling alien tribes on Sakaar, who sought to capture and harm the Hulk, is one scenario. But confronting superheroes, many of whom were previously allies and friends, is an entirely different matter.

In essence, the Illuminati’s decision to send the Hulk into space was justified, though they could have done it more tactfully and openly. However, as the story unfolds, it predominantly becomes a spectacle of public humiliation for a substantial part of the Marvel superhero fraternity. This might appeal to hardcore Hulk enthusiasts, but leaves fans of Iron Man, the Fantastic Four, and others indifferent. Despite the initial fury and animosity the Hulk shows in the beginning, his sudden transformation back to the side of virtue happens so fast that it’s understandable if some viewers experienced a whiplash effect. Miek wasn’t the only one left bewildered by how rapidly the Hulk changed loyalty.

To conclude, after the sensational “Planet Hulk” series, it’s understandable that “World War Hulk” received a positive response. Readers were curious about how the Hulk would cope with the aftermath of Caiera’s death and the loss of their unborn child. However, five issues of continuous fighting, while common in superhero comics, might have been more impactful if they were accompanied by a stronger narrative foundation. Additionally, the surprising twist ending that portrayed all the intense action as a result of an error may leave one wondering if the story fully merits its reputation as one of, if not the, most remarkable Hulk narratives in history.

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2025-07-21 21:12