Marvel Triple Action #46
Published and © by Marvel, February 1979
Title: “In Battle Joined”
Synopsis: Searching for their missing teammates, the Avengers soon find themselves battling the X-Men in lieu of the real villain, Magneto.
Writer: Roy Thomas
Penciler: John Buscema
Inker: George Tuska
Review: Much as with the previous issue (see review), Marvel Triple Action #46 feels stuck between two eras of comics. Roy Thomas’ story – reprinted from 1968’s The Avengers #53 – is plagued by that chummy, faux-Stan-Lee voice that tended to dominate Marvel in the late-Silver/early-Bronze ages. Characterization is also a bit of an issue, with questionable conflicts and verbose dialogue ruling the day. On the art side, George Tuska’s pairing with John Buscema is surprisingly strong. Those more familiar with “Big” John’s work on Conan will find strong superhero art here, and the team draws a mean Magneto.
Grade: B
Cool factor: Little Me couldn’t get enough of the X-Men.
Not-so-cool factor: Magneto lacks the depth that would later define the character. Here, he comes off as a B-list, mutant answer to Dr. Doom.
Notable: This story is missing two pages from its original publication in Avengers #53.
Collector’s note: According to the Grand Comics Database, there is a 12p British variant of this issue. … According to MyComicShop.com, there is also a Mark Jewelers variant.
Character quotable: “I share a few other qualities with birds besides my wings, Avenger – including my sense of direction!” – Angel, a bit bird brained
Editor’s note: This review was written June 20, 2024.
