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Classic X-Men #1-44
X-Men Classic Omnibus
In 1986, Marvel launched Classic X-Men, a series that reprinted the "All-New, All-Diff erent X-Men" era -with a twist! All-new backup stories fleshed out the 1970s tales and delved deeper into the characters' lives, and new story pages were even inserted into the reprints, expanding on key moments and sowing the seeds for future storylines! Now, all this newly created material is collected in one volume for the first time - complete with comparisons and text articles explaining what was changed, what was added, and why! It's the perfect companion piece to your Uncanny X-Men collection! Friendships are forged, allies are mourned and lives are transformed in these rare tales that dance between the raindrops of some of the most revered comics of all time! COLLECTING: BACKUP STORIES AND NEW PAGES FROM CLASSIC X-MEN 1-44; MATERIAL FROM MARVEL FANFARE (1982) 60
1040 pages, Hardcover
First published December 19, 2017
About the author
Chris Claremont
3,394 books933 followersChris Claremont is a writer of American comic books, best known for his 16-year (1975-1991) stint on Uncanny X-Men, during which the series became one of the comic book industry's most successful properties.
Claremont has written many stories for other publishers including the Star Trek Debt of Honor graphic novel, his creator-owned Sovereign Seven for DC Comics and Aliens vs Predator for Dark Horse Comics. He also wrote a few issues of the series WildC.A.T.s (volume 1, issues #10-13) at Image Comics, which introduced his creator-owned character, Huntsman.
Outside of comics, Claremont co-wrote the Chronicles of the Shadow War trilogy, Shadow Moon (1995), Shadow Dawn (1996), and Shadow Star (1999), with George Lucas. This trilogy continues the story of Elora Danan from the movie Willow. In the 1980s, he also wrote a science fiction trilogy about female starship pilot Nicole Shea, consisting of First Flight (1987), Grounded! (1991), and Sundowner (1994). Claremont was also a contributor to the Wild Cards anthology series.
Claremont has written many stories for other publishers including the Star Trek Debt of Honor graphic novel, his creator-owned Sovereign Seven for DC Comics and Aliens vs Predator for Dark Horse Comics. He also wrote a few issues of the series WildC.A.T.s (volume 1, issues #10-13) at Image Comics, which introduced his creator-owned character, Huntsman.
Outside of comics, Claremont co-wrote the Chronicles of the Shadow War trilogy, Shadow Moon (1995), Shadow Dawn (1996), and Shadow Star (1999), with George Lucas. This trilogy continues the story of Elora Danan from the movie Willow. In the 1980s, he also wrote a science fiction trilogy about female starship pilot Nicole Shea, consisting of First Flight (1987), Grounded! (1991), and Sundowner (1994). Claremont was also a contributor to the Wild Cards anthology series.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 12, 2020
Figuring out how to judge this book is a real conundrum. On one hand, I really appreciate the material here, but on the other hand, I hate the way it’s presented. The book is essentially a companion to the first 44 issues of Chris Claremont’s Uncanny X-Men run. Those issues were re-released in magazine form originally with edits and additional material, and this hardcover collects that new material, but NOT THE FULL ISSUES. The book ends up being just a bunch of edits, sometimes even just single panels, and backup stories, with explanations describing the changes. So it can be very jarring for new readers. The changes and new stories are mostly really good though, whether they correct plot holes and mistakes (like doing away with Nightcrawler’s invisibility) or providing much-appreciated character development, with a heavy focus on building to the Dark Phoenix story.
But be warned, it doesn’t really work as a book, and unless you are reading it in conjunction with the original issues (which is what I did) or you’re at least intimately familiar with everything that is being referenced then it's just not satisfying. It's like watching a feature-length movie of just deleted scenes. I wish they just released the full issues including the changes and called it Uncanny X-Men Omnibus: Expanded Edition or something. I would have given it four stars.
But be warned, it doesn’t really work as a book, and unless you are reading it in conjunction with the original issues (which is what I did) or you’re at least intimately familiar with everything that is being referenced then it's just not satisfying. It's like watching a feature-length movie of just deleted scenes. I wish they just released the full issues including the changes and called it Uncanny X-Men Omnibus: Expanded Edition or something. I would have given it four stars.
March 16, 2018
Despite having owned and read these issues at one time, I couldn't quite remember how it worked. Reading it again, think of these at "deleted scenes", small moments that either explain a little bit more about how the characters got from one scene to the next, or they are "inner" moments, diving into what someone is thinking or feeling. The bonus to me is that most are drawn by either Cockrum or Byrne, meaning they slip into the original story flawlessly. These are the best part of this volume, and it really makes me want to reread the original issues again along with these deleted scenes.
In addition, there are small back-up stories, the first half are all written by Claremont as well. Nearly all of them bring the reader into the mind of a single X-Man, shaping their personality even more. Claremont's crafting of these personalities over his entire run is what made me a life-long fan of these characters.
For the back-up stories, roughly the first half are written by Claremont, the rest mostly written by Ann Nocenti. Nocenti's varied in "importance", and sometimes felt like a throwaway adventure that didn't add much.
Lastly, there were some minor edits for various reasons: a few were to keep the character's voices, descriptions and mannerisms in line with what was established before and sometimes it was for language. The book reprints both the original and the modified one, but occasionally it wasn't clear which was which.
Overall, an excellent addition to the already legendary run.
In addition, there are small back-up stories, the first half are all written by Claremont as well. Nearly all of them bring the reader into the mind of a single X-Man, shaping their personality even more. Claremont's crafting of these personalities over his entire run is what made me a life-long fan of these characters.
For the back-up stories, roughly the first half are written by Claremont, the rest mostly written by Ann Nocenti. Nocenti's varied in "importance", and sometimes felt like a throwaway adventure that didn't add much.
Lastly, there were some minor edits for various reasons: a few were to keep the character's voices, descriptions and mannerisms in line with what was established before and sometimes it was for language. The book reprints both the original and the modified one, but occasionally it wasn't clear which was which.
Overall, an excellent addition to the already legendary run.
March 15, 2024
A mostly great addition to the series. I would recommend reading most of these alongside the issues they come with. The best of these stories add much more character to our favorite mutants, including smoothing Magneto’s transition from raving supervillain to flawed antihero. It contains some spoilers for future Phoenix and Sinister stuff, but nothing huge. At its worst its somewhat pointless and overly philosophical, but at its best it’s a series of strong additions to the X-Men canon.
Classic X-Men #1 ⧫ 4 Stars “First Night”
The first issue has the most added material, and the early stuff with Cyclops is a little unnecessary, but the actual first night is gold. Iceman comes off like a jerk, and Wolverine is somewhat creepy, but the teams interacting is exactly what I wanted more of, and this delivers.
Classic X-Men #2 ⧫ 5 Stars “First Friends”
This is just an amazing expansion, both in issue, and the added story itself. Jean and Ororo’s friendship is great, and I love the friction and reconciliation. These X-Men work so well together.
Classic X-Men #3 ⧫ 5 Stars “Mourning”
It’s funny that this issue has another good story expansion, adding to the characters, especially John Proudstar. The epilogue adds some much needed weight to Proudstar’s death, even enhancing the start of the next issue. Also, I love the foreshadowing.
Classic X-Men #4 ⧫ 5 Stars “The Big Dare”
Just a great Wolverine/Nightcrawler story, though I feel like it might double up on something later? The mid-story Storm addition is also welcome as it adds to the best part of the issue: the character development.
Classic X-Men #5 ⧫ 4.5 Stars “Prison of the Heart”
Acculturation is difficult, and so is love. Honestly, these shorts remind me of the best of the Claremont/Byrne run.
Classic X-Men #6 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “A Love Story”
Isn’t this too early for that ending? This is definitely the most off-kilter of the one-offs so far. I liked the added pages, though, as they effectively insert both missing things and help integrate the added material from the last issue.
Classic X-Men #7 ⧫ 3 Stars “"Out with the Old"”
A Hellfire Club story that fills in some background, but seems unnecessary unless you’re a big Shaw fan.
Classic X-Men #8 ⧫ 5 Stars “Phoenix”
Damn, this is much darker and bleaker than I was expecting. My one reservation is the spoilers for future stuff, like maybe this should be read around Uncanny X-Men #201 (roughly 100 issues from this one in regular numbering). However, I really like this one.
Classic X-Men #9 ⧫ 3 Stars “The Gift”
I like the early hospital stuff, but I wasn’t into the stuff with the kid.
Classic X-Men #10 ⧫ 4 Stars “Tag, Sucker!”
This is a great look at one of Wolverine’s classic rivalries. Just a cool suspense-action piece.
Classic X-Men #11 ⧫ 4 Stars “Hope”
Okay, this is a little cheezy, but I really liked it. It has some Daredevilish crime drama with some Superman flair. All this is bolstered by Storm’s optimism. I liked it.
Classic X-Men #12 ⧫ 5 Stars “A Fire in the Night!”
Honestly, several of these are critical additions to the canon. This one is both a great story and explains the switch from pure supervillain to dark antihero. Another genuinely great story in this series.
Classic X-Men #13 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “Lifesigns”
I really liked the start with the Misty Knight stuff; then, the story becomes Star Trek IV as the 80s obsession with marine mammals comes out of nowhere. Look, I like dolphins, but the ending’s silliness from a modern perspective is definitely weird.
Classic X-Men #14 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “What Stuff Our Dreams Are Made Of...”
This one connects Lilandra to the Professor’s psychic alien defeat from X-Men #65. It’s some good, though rather inconsequential backstory.
Classic X-Men #15 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “Starjammers Aloft!”
This is a nice expansion on the Starjammers. I’ve never found them particularly interesting, but this backstory helps. Also, I do like the added pages here.
Classic X-Men #16 ⧫ 4.5 Stars “‘Dearest Friend’”
I was not expecting a great Banshee/Black Tom story from these, but I quite liked this addition. This continues the trend of these shorts making the issues they’re attached to more complex and interesting.
Classic X-Men #17 ⧫ 2 Stars “A Taste for Vengeance!”
Okay, this one is unnecessary and adds basically nothing. Mesmero as a cheap Purple Man, though I wonder if Bendis read this before writing Jessica Jones. I’m glad he didn’t S/A Jean, I guess. I did like the added context for the Beast’s reintroduction.
Classic X-Men #18 ⧫ 4 Stars “Stalking Life!”
This is another fun one that falls a little earlier than the issue it’s paired with, but I really like as added context to the Phoenix arc.
Classic X-Men #19 ⧫ 4 Stars “I, Magneto!”
The previous Magneto story was essential. This one is just fairly good. Magneto being tortured by headaches and working for shady individuals to dish out revenge. It’s another good one that builds into his supervillain madness.
Classic X-Men #20 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “Mother of the Bride”
A decent Storm solo story with an anti-corporate message. I like the horror angle!
Classic X-Men #21 ⧫ 4 Stars “First Love”
This is how to expand on an event. Peter is barely in the associated issues 114/115, and the joke about his innocence is just a funny aside. Giving Peter a relationship with Nereel and Fahe makes the whole situation more interesting and gives it context beyond the joke. It also explores some of Peter’s character after his doomed love interest in a previous issue.
Classic X-Men #22 ⧫ 3 Stars “Solace”
This feels like Claremont read some of Neil Gaiman’s Sandman and tried his own version. It’s not terrible, and I think a reading as Storm decompressing from all the trauma is good, but these characters return in the Evolutionary War event, which I don’t remember being very good.
Classic X-Men #23 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “Nightcrawler's High Adventure”
This one has to be a dream… I really wish it was clearer and didn’t end on a stupid joke. I love Nightcrawler and his love of old movies, but this is done better in the main series.
Classic X-Men #24 ⧫ 2.5 Stars “Vacation”
Diving right into the part of the Dark Phoenix Saga that hasn’t aged well. It’s fine setup and works as an introduction to that arc, but it feels like a cheap repeat of the Classic X-Men #17 story. I know this is what happens later, but I just don’t think this adds much. Poor Phoenix.
Classic X-Men #25 ⧫ 4.5 Stars “Just Don't Look in Its Eyes”
A super cool Wolverine short. Great art that really ties the story together. I also like the early Apocalypse addition to the main issue. It ties the story together while hinting at the future.
Classic X-Men #26 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “So Much in Common”
It’s cute, and it’s something that becomes very common in other media. I wonder how common it was when this was published.
Classic X-Men #27 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “Backlash”
Wolverine is fun, but problematic. It’s not as bad as “Vacation,” though.
Classic X-Men #28 ⧫ 4 Stars “Who Am I?”
I love the Halloween party aspect to this; Claremont brought the Christmas specials, but I’d have liked to see some more Halloween specials.
Classic X-Men #29 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “Motherland”
The end feels a little weird, but overall, it’s a good Colossus story.
Classic X-Men #30 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “Play With Me”
I feel like the end is both a little cliche while also completely making sense and adding some depth to Arcade. It’s another good one.
Classic X-Men #31 ⧫ 3 Stars “Spigot at the End of the Universe”
I’m a little split here. I like the overall sentiment of questioning where and what is valuable. I do think this is a little manic pixie dream plumber for my tastes, and it wades into some deepities that frustrate me. However, I am a little picky, and overall, it’s good.
Classic X-Men #32 ⧫ 4 Stars “Shreds of Humanity”
An extended fight that shows why Wolverine is scared of Proteus with awesome visuals. Cool!
Classic X-Men #33 ⧫ 4.5 Stars “So Good It Hurts”
Alex and Lorna just kind of show up in the next issue, so it’s cool to fill that time with them getting back into the fray, especially since they’ve barely been characterized, only having been in a few issues over the course of the series.
Classic X-Men #34 ⧫ 4 Stars “Double Negative”
Power is a curious thing. Weapons come in all shapes. I like the sentiment about choosing your battles. Sometimes simple engagement is a loss. This is somewhat weirdly placed
Classic X-Men #35 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “Paper, Not Paper”
I like the idea, but I have issues with the execution.
Classic X-Men #36 ⧫ 4 Stars “Outside In”
Seeing Moira’s mourning and how it impacts her relationship with Sean is another thing that this series was made for and does really well.
Classic X-Men #37 ⧫ 2 Stars “Was Not What Will Be”
Honestly, this was dull. I guess I liked the start and the last page, but the conversations at the diner were exceptionally boring, and they didn’t make the end better. Also, I wasn’t a fan of the art. The late 80s looking back at the early 80s, it just wasn’t introspective.
Classic X-Men #38 ⧫ 2 Stars “Strangers on a Lift”
This seems like it could have been a decent horror short if the end wasn’t so mediocre. Also the art style seem intentionally drawn to obscure the identity of the woman, which just annoyed me. Wasted potential.
Classic X-Men #39 ⧫ 2 Stars “Briggs' Revenge”
Yeah, not a fan. It’s overly simplistic and plays into some stupid stereotypes.
Classic X-Men #40 ⧫ 3 Stars “Fundamental Imbalance”
It’s fine, but it feels too afterschool special in some of the worst ways.
Classic X-Men #41 ⧫ 2.5 Stars “Little Boy, Lost!”
A very okay tale of Scott Summers’ youth that is the first of two. It’s fine, though as soon as I knew it was a Scott backstory, I awaited the appearance of Mr. Sinister, one of my least favorite characters. He appears only for a page to speed up the plot. The thing that distracted me is how casual all the characters are about violence and suicide…
Classic X-Men #42 ⧫ 1.5 Stars “When Dreams Are Dust”
Boring, trite, more Sinister, dumb ending. I feel like Cyclops fans might like this more, but it’s genuinely uninspired. Why was this paired with the Dark Phoenix Saga? We could have stories about Shi’ar or other cosmic stories. How about more with Jean’s family or just an extended version of the calm after the Dark Phoenix battle. Instead, boring orphanage with crappy villain. I actually thought there might be more to this story, but no, it ends here without building to anything. Feels like a lame way to hype the current big bad in the series at the time (The late 80s Inferno event). What a waste.
Classic X-Men #43 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “Flights of Angels”
I liked the Phoenix story from issue #8, and this one is overall pretty good, a little generic, but pretty good until the Sinister-Madeline Pryor stuff…Ugh, trying to tie into Inferno, a very mediocre to stupid X-Event that was happening at the time…
Classic X-Men #44 ⧫ 4.5 Stars “Her First & Last”
The series proper ends on a really strong note with a flashback to Rogue’s origin before her fateful encounter with Carol Danvers.
Marvel Fanfare #60 ⧫ 4.5 Stars “The Mission”
This is a second part to the Rogue story, and I love that it shows a teenage Rogue coming to terms with her power and ODing. It appeared years later due to the feature being canceled and the more uneven nature of this last batch of issues, at least in my opinion.
This ends with all the rest of the X-Men Classic and reprint covers as well as some added pages to earlier X-Men issues. It’s really a comprehensive collection.
Other Comics Reviews
X-Men Omnibus #1
X-Men Omnibus #2
Epic Collection Volume 4: It's Always Darkest Before the Dawn
Champions Classic Complete Collection
Uncanny X-Men Omnibus #1
Uncanny X-Men Omnibus #2
Classic X-Men #1 ⧫ 4 Stars “First Night”
The first issue has the most added material, and the early stuff with Cyclops is a little unnecessary, but the actual first night is gold. Iceman comes off like a jerk, and Wolverine is somewhat creepy, but the teams interacting is exactly what I wanted more of, and this delivers.
Classic X-Men #2 ⧫ 5 Stars “First Friends”
This is just an amazing expansion, both in issue, and the added story itself. Jean and Ororo’s friendship is great, and I love the friction and reconciliation. These X-Men work so well together.
Classic X-Men #3 ⧫ 5 Stars “Mourning”
It’s funny that this issue has another good story expansion, adding to the characters, especially John Proudstar. The epilogue adds some much needed weight to Proudstar’s death, even enhancing the start of the next issue. Also, I love the foreshadowing.
Classic X-Men #4 ⧫ 5 Stars “The Big Dare”
Just a great Wolverine/Nightcrawler story, though I feel like it might double up on something later? The mid-story Storm addition is also welcome as it adds to the best part of the issue: the character development.
Classic X-Men #5 ⧫ 4.5 Stars “Prison of the Heart”
Acculturation is difficult, and so is love. Honestly, these shorts remind me of the best of the Claremont/Byrne run.
Classic X-Men #6 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “A Love Story”
Isn’t this too early for that ending? This is definitely the most off-kilter of the one-offs so far. I liked the added pages, though, as they effectively insert both missing things and help integrate the added material from the last issue.
Classic X-Men #7 ⧫ 3 Stars “"Out with the Old"”
A Hellfire Club story that fills in some background, but seems unnecessary unless you’re a big Shaw fan.
Classic X-Men #8 ⧫ 5 Stars “Phoenix”
Damn, this is much darker and bleaker than I was expecting. My one reservation is the spoilers for future stuff, like maybe this should be read around Uncanny X-Men #201 (roughly 100 issues from this one in regular numbering). However, I really like this one.
Classic X-Men #9 ⧫ 3 Stars “The Gift”
I like the early hospital stuff, but I wasn’t into the stuff with the kid.
Classic X-Men #10 ⧫ 4 Stars “Tag, Sucker!”
This is a great look at one of Wolverine’s classic rivalries. Just a cool suspense-action piece.
Classic X-Men #11 ⧫ 4 Stars “Hope”
Okay, this is a little cheezy, but I really liked it. It has some Daredevilish crime drama with some Superman flair. All this is bolstered by Storm’s optimism. I liked it.
Classic X-Men #12 ⧫ 5 Stars “A Fire in the Night!”
Honestly, several of these are critical additions to the canon. This one is both a great story and explains the switch from pure supervillain to dark antihero. Another genuinely great story in this series.
Classic X-Men #13 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “Lifesigns”
I really liked the start with the Misty Knight stuff; then, the story becomes Star Trek IV as the 80s obsession with marine mammals comes out of nowhere. Look, I like dolphins, but the ending’s silliness from a modern perspective is definitely weird.
Classic X-Men #14 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “What Stuff Our Dreams Are Made Of...”
This one connects Lilandra to the Professor’s psychic alien defeat from X-Men #65. It’s some good, though rather inconsequential backstory.
Classic X-Men #15 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “Starjammers Aloft!”
This is a nice expansion on the Starjammers. I’ve never found them particularly interesting, but this backstory helps. Also, I do like the added pages here.
Classic X-Men #16 ⧫ 4.5 Stars “‘Dearest Friend’”
I was not expecting a great Banshee/Black Tom story from these, but I quite liked this addition. This continues the trend of these shorts making the issues they’re attached to more complex and interesting.
Classic X-Men #17 ⧫ 2 Stars “A Taste for Vengeance!”
Okay, this one is unnecessary and adds basically nothing. Mesmero as a cheap Purple Man, though I wonder if Bendis read this before writing Jessica Jones. I’m glad he didn’t S/A Jean, I guess. I did like the added context for the Beast’s reintroduction.
Classic X-Men #18 ⧫ 4 Stars “Stalking Life!”
This is another fun one that falls a little earlier than the issue it’s paired with, but I really like as added context to the Phoenix arc.
Classic X-Men #19 ⧫ 4 Stars “I, Magneto!”
The previous Magneto story was essential. This one is just fairly good. Magneto being tortured by headaches and working for shady individuals to dish out revenge. It’s another good one that builds into his supervillain madness.
Classic X-Men #20 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “Mother of the Bride”
A decent Storm solo story with an anti-corporate message. I like the horror angle!
Classic X-Men #21 ⧫ 4 Stars “First Love”
This is how to expand on an event. Peter is barely in the associated issues 114/115, and the joke about his innocence is just a funny aside. Giving Peter a relationship with Nereel and Fahe makes the whole situation more interesting and gives it context beyond the joke. It also explores some of Peter’s character after his doomed love interest in a previous issue.
Classic X-Men #22 ⧫ 3 Stars “Solace”
This feels like Claremont read some of Neil Gaiman’s Sandman and tried his own version. It’s not terrible, and I think a reading as Storm decompressing from all the trauma is good, but these characters return in the Evolutionary War event, which I don’t remember being very good.
Classic X-Men #23 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “Nightcrawler's High Adventure”
This one has to be a dream… I really wish it was clearer and didn’t end on a stupid joke. I love Nightcrawler and his love of old movies, but this is done better in the main series.
Classic X-Men #24 ⧫ 2.5 Stars “Vacation”
Diving right into the part of the Dark Phoenix Saga that hasn’t aged well. It’s fine setup and works as an introduction to that arc, but it feels like a cheap repeat of the Classic X-Men #17 story. I know this is what happens later, but I just don’t think this adds much. Poor Phoenix.
Classic X-Men #25 ⧫ 4.5 Stars “Just Don't Look in Its Eyes”
A super cool Wolverine short. Great art that really ties the story together. I also like the early Apocalypse addition to the main issue. It ties the story together while hinting at the future.
Classic X-Men #26 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “So Much in Common”
It’s cute, and it’s something that becomes very common in other media. I wonder how common it was when this was published.
Classic X-Men #27 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “Backlash”
Wolverine is fun, but problematic. It’s not as bad as “Vacation,” though.
Classic X-Men #28 ⧫ 4 Stars “Who Am I?”
I love the Halloween party aspect to this; Claremont brought the Christmas specials, but I’d have liked to see some more Halloween specials.
Classic X-Men #29 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “Motherland”
The end feels a little weird, but overall, it’s a good Colossus story.
Classic X-Men #30 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “Play With Me”
I feel like the end is both a little cliche while also completely making sense and adding some depth to Arcade. It’s another good one.
Classic X-Men #31 ⧫ 3 Stars “Spigot at the End of the Universe”
I’m a little split here. I like the overall sentiment of questioning where and what is valuable. I do think this is a little manic pixie dream plumber for my tastes, and it wades into some deepities that frustrate me. However, I am a little picky, and overall, it’s good.
Classic X-Men #32 ⧫ 4 Stars “Shreds of Humanity”
An extended fight that shows why Wolverine is scared of Proteus with awesome visuals. Cool!
Classic X-Men #33 ⧫ 4.5 Stars “So Good It Hurts”
Alex and Lorna just kind of show up in the next issue, so it’s cool to fill that time with them getting back into the fray, especially since they’ve barely been characterized, only having been in a few issues over the course of the series.
Classic X-Men #34 ⧫ 4 Stars “Double Negative”
Power is a curious thing. Weapons come in all shapes. I like the sentiment about choosing your battles. Sometimes simple engagement is a loss. This is somewhat weirdly placed
Classic X-Men #35 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “Paper, Not Paper”
I like the idea, but I have issues with the execution.
Classic X-Men #36 ⧫ 4 Stars “Outside In”
Seeing Moira’s mourning and how it impacts her relationship with Sean is another thing that this series was made for and does really well.
Classic X-Men #37 ⧫ 2 Stars “Was Not What Will Be”
Honestly, this was dull. I guess I liked the start and the last page, but the conversations at the diner were exceptionally boring, and they didn’t make the end better. Also, I wasn’t a fan of the art. The late 80s looking back at the early 80s, it just wasn’t introspective.
Classic X-Men #38 ⧫ 2 Stars “Strangers on a Lift”
This seems like it could have been a decent horror short if the end wasn’t so mediocre. Also the art style seem intentionally drawn to obscure the identity of the woman, which just annoyed me. Wasted potential.
Classic X-Men #39 ⧫ 2 Stars “Briggs' Revenge”
Yeah, not a fan. It’s overly simplistic and plays into some stupid stereotypes.
Classic X-Men #40 ⧫ 3 Stars “Fundamental Imbalance”
It’s fine, but it feels too afterschool special in some of the worst ways.
Classic X-Men #41 ⧫ 2.5 Stars “Little Boy, Lost!”
A very okay tale of Scott Summers’ youth that is the first of two. It’s fine, though as soon as I knew it was a Scott backstory, I awaited the appearance of Mr. Sinister, one of my least favorite characters. He appears only for a page to speed up the plot. The thing that distracted me is how casual all the characters are about violence and suicide…
Classic X-Men #42 ⧫ 1.5 Stars “When Dreams Are Dust”
Boring, trite, more Sinister, dumb ending. I feel like Cyclops fans might like this more, but it’s genuinely uninspired. Why was this paired with the Dark Phoenix Saga? We could have stories about Shi’ar or other cosmic stories. How about more with Jean’s family or just an extended version of the calm after the Dark Phoenix battle. Instead, boring orphanage with crappy villain. I actually thought there might be more to this story, but no, it ends here without building to anything. Feels like a lame way to hype the current big bad in the series at the time (The late 80s Inferno event). What a waste.
Classic X-Men #43 ⧫ 3.5 Stars “Flights of Angels”
I liked the Phoenix story from issue #8, and this one is overall pretty good, a little generic, but pretty good until the Sinister-Madeline Pryor stuff…Ugh, trying to tie into Inferno, a very mediocre to stupid X-Event that was happening at the time…
Classic X-Men #44 ⧫ 4.5 Stars “Her First & Last”
The series proper ends on a really strong note with a flashback to Rogue’s origin before her fateful encounter with Carol Danvers.
Marvel Fanfare #60 ⧫ 4.5 Stars “The Mission”
This is a second part to the Rogue story, and I love that it shows a teenage Rogue coming to terms with her power and ODing. It appeared years later due to the feature being canceled and the more uneven nature of this last batch of issues, at least in my opinion.
This ends with all the rest of the X-Men Classic and reprint covers as well as some added pages to earlier X-Men issues. It’s really a comprehensive collection.
Other Comics Reviews
X-Men Omnibus #1
X-Men Omnibus #2
Epic Collection Volume 4: It's Always Darkest Before the Dawn
Champions Classic Complete Collection
Uncanny X-Men Omnibus #1
Uncanny X-Men Omnibus #2
October 10, 2021
A companion series that fleshes out the first 44 issues of Uncanny X-men (Giant X-men and 94 up) - and yes it’s for the fan of X-men. Emotional vignettes of background issues and conundrums that couldn’t be explored in the series due to tight editing.
July 22, 2020
If you're serious about the backgrounds of and interactions between the characters in the early years of Uncanny X-Men, this omnibus is essential. Classic X-Men reprints and enhances old stories, and in many cases fills in a lot of gaps between issues that you probably didn't realise were there until you start reading this. In many cases, the new additional material sits not just between X-Men issues, but between pages or panels in the original printings!
The end result is a huge amount of fleshing out and character development, along with the classic style of story-telling and art associated with that era. I am reading my copy alongside Uncanny X-Men Omnibus Volume 1, and it's great to be able to pop back and forth between the books when required to extract further detail from particular stories or actions.
The X-Men Classic Omnibus provides intorductory information before each issue, saying what new content is in the issue, and where it slots into the continuity of the old X-Men/Uncanny X-Men issues. It is the perfect definition of a "companion" omnibus, and the perfect definition also of "essential reading".
The end result is a huge amount of fleshing out and character development, along with the classic style of story-telling and art associated with that era. I am reading my copy alongside Uncanny X-Men Omnibus Volume 1, and it's great to be able to pop back and forth between the books when required to extract further detail from particular stories or actions.
The X-Men Classic Omnibus provides intorductory information before each issue, saying what new content is in the issue, and where it slots into the continuity of the old X-Men/Uncanny X-Men issues. It is the perfect definition of a "companion" omnibus, and the perfect definition also of "essential reading".
September 27, 2023
Let me start saying this, this book isn’t perfect. In fact I was tempted to give it a 4, or if I could, a 4.5. It’s primary flaw being that it only prints the changes to the originals issues and the backup stories that were added during the original run of Classic X-Men 1-44. Because of that, this book ends up feeling like a companion omnibus rather than a book that holds up on its own. If/when I read it again, I’ll probably treat it as such and read along side Uncanny X-Men Vols 1-2. That being said, if this book had only collected the backup stories, it would have been an easy 5 star rating. I’m giving it a 5 star regardless of what I see as a flaw because I think the backup stories were frankly some of the best X-Men stories I’ve read so far. Now that that’s out of the way, let me discuss what was great about this book.
Each backup story dived deeper into the characters and were written with much more understanding and mastery than the original stories were. You could tell that Claremont (and team) loved and understood their characters, where they were going, and what their motivations and histories were, far more than when they started. Examples of this include, Thunderbird, Colossus, Jean Gray, Nightcrawler, Storm, Wolverine and even Rogue, who had yet to appear where these stories took place. Not to mention some of the art is the best I’ve scene from this era in terms of quality and creativity.
The back story for Thunderbird added a lot of needed depth to the character that I really wish was present originally. During my first read through I didn’t really care much for him. This addition made me understand him better and made his loss for the team a bit more impactful.
The side story with Colossus was kind of heart breaking. He met a woman from his homeland, he felt connected, she was just as attracted to him as he was her. She was a dancer, a rebel who ran from Russia to be herself. But when she finds out he’s a mutant she sees a monster and leaves him, not seeing that at his heart they were the same.
The backstory on how Jean survived the Phoenix Force was fantastic. Watching her body wither away, it reminded me of the kind of body horror you’d see in Swamp Thing. The conversation, and “the gift,” the Phoenix offers her added so much depth to this story line.
A story with Nightcrawler, while it didn’t add anything to overall story arc, was really heart felt. Like the Colossus story, it was deeply sad, but interesting to see how these characters deal these situations.
Wolverine back up story with Sabertooth was a well paced page turner.
The story with Storm talking to the writer who went to the roof to jump. This shows her immense empathy towards humankind. It’s also just a relatable story about what it means to lose the thing you define yourself by.
I could go on an on about why each and every one of these stories had something great about them, but essentially all these backup stories are top notch writing and essential character studies. The only thing I would say is, I wouldn’t read these until you have a baseline understanding of Claremont’s team of the X-Men first. Though these are wonderful stories to read on their own, I think they’re more impactful after you get to know them a little bit through the original run of his comics. There’s also content/scenes that could spoil some big moments if you haven’t read it yet. I will definitely come back and revisit this book many times as I move forward into the rest of my Uncanny X-Men read through.
Each backup story dived deeper into the characters and were written with much more understanding and mastery than the original stories were. You could tell that Claremont (and team) loved and understood their characters, where they were going, and what their motivations and histories were, far more than when they started. Examples of this include, Thunderbird, Colossus, Jean Gray, Nightcrawler, Storm, Wolverine and even Rogue, who had yet to appear where these stories took place. Not to mention some of the art is the best I’ve scene from this era in terms of quality and creativity.
The back story for Thunderbird added a lot of needed depth to the character that I really wish was present originally. During my first read through I didn’t really care much for him. This addition made me understand him better and made his loss for the team a bit more impactful.
The side story with Colossus was kind of heart breaking. He met a woman from his homeland, he felt connected, she was just as attracted to him as he was her. She was a dancer, a rebel who ran from Russia to be herself. But when she finds out he’s a mutant she sees a monster and leaves him, not seeing that at his heart they were the same.
The backstory on how Jean survived the Phoenix Force was fantastic. Watching her body wither away, it reminded me of the kind of body horror you’d see in Swamp Thing. The conversation, and “the gift,” the Phoenix offers her added so much depth to this story line.
A story with Nightcrawler, while it didn’t add anything to overall story arc, was really heart felt. Like the Colossus story, it was deeply sad, but interesting to see how these characters deal these situations.
Wolverine back up story with Sabertooth was a well paced page turner.
The story with Storm talking to the writer who went to the roof to jump. This shows her immense empathy towards humankind. It’s also just a relatable story about what it means to lose the thing you define yourself by.
I could go on an on about why each and every one of these stories had something great about them, but essentially all these backup stories are top notch writing and essential character studies. The only thing I would say is, I wouldn’t read these until you have a baseline understanding of Claremont’s team of the X-Men first. Though these are wonderful stories to read on their own, I think they’re more impactful after you get to know them a little bit through the original run of his comics. There’s also content/scenes that could spoil some big moments if you haven’t read it yet. I will definitely come back and revisit this book many times as I move forward into the rest of my Uncanny X-Men read through.
July 25, 2021
It took me a while to get around to reading this but man I loved this omnibus. I find the omnibus format can get a little overwhelming at times - reading 1000 pages of the same series all at once but O breezed through this collection in less than a week.
Why do I love it so much? These are companion stories to the New X-Men stories (starting in X-Men 94) and the first ones are written by Chris Claremont (the breakout writer of the New X-Men) and drawn by John Bolton (an immensely talented writer who seemed to come and go in the 80's). They are like fan fic stories of the X-Men but done by professionals and the writer who knew them best. They are less fight and action driven and much more character driven. On their own they would not work (because there are no super villains or fights) but as companion tales to the original series they flesh out side stories and quieter moments in the lives of the X-Men and give insights that are so interesting that I can't help but love them. Some are more light hearted - some are darker but all of them are fresh and original and dig deeper into the X-Men's characters than a regular comic ever could.
The first half of this Omnibus is as good as it gets for an X-Men fan. A good question would be - Can I read these without having read the Original comics they are backstories for? Nope. No. And Nyet. Without those stories most of these stories would make zero sense.
The second half? Some great stories - especially the ones written by Claremont with some great artists - I love the Kyle Baker art and early Jim Lee art and there are still many by Bolton. But also we get Ann Nocenti. I read her run on Daredevil (in the 80's) and I was reminded why I don't love her writing and she faded from the comic book scene. She has a great imagination but her stories were all so weird and instead of feeling closer to the characters after reading them (like Claremont's) they were cold and distant and just weird. Did I mention she writes weird stories, and not in a good way. Her run on Daredevil actually wasn't that bad but there is a reason I don't go back and read her stories again and again - like Chris' - her character's motivations and actions don't feel real and it is offputting.
Oh! Before I forget - most of the covers from the Classic X-Men run were done by Art Adams and almost every one of them is a picture I would hang on my walls. They are so damn gorgeous.
But even with those Nocenti stories - there is so much good in this omnibus - if you love Claremont's run on the X-Men (the early years), take it from me, you HAVE to get this Omnibus.
Why do I love it so much? These are companion stories to the New X-Men stories (starting in X-Men 94) and the first ones are written by Chris Claremont (the breakout writer of the New X-Men) and drawn by John Bolton (an immensely talented writer who seemed to come and go in the 80's). They are like fan fic stories of the X-Men but done by professionals and the writer who knew them best. They are less fight and action driven and much more character driven. On their own they would not work (because there are no super villains or fights) but as companion tales to the original series they flesh out side stories and quieter moments in the lives of the X-Men and give insights that are so interesting that I can't help but love them. Some are more light hearted - some are darker but all of them are fresh and original and dig deeper into the X-Men's characters than a regular comic ever could.
The first half of this Omnibus is as good as it gets for an X-Men fan. A good question would be - Can I read these without having read the Original comics they are backstories for? Nope. No. And Nyet. Without those stories most of these stories would make zero sense.
The second half? Some great stories - especially the ones written by Claremont with some great artists - I love the Kyle Baker art and early Jim Lee art and there are still many by Bolton. But also we get Ann Nocenti. I read her run on Daredevil (in the 80's) and I was reminded why I don't love her writing and she faded from the comic book scene. She has a great imagination but her stories were all so weird and instead of feeling closer to the characters after reading them (like Claremont's) they were cold and distant and just weird. Did I mention she writes weird stories, and not in a good way. Her run on Daredevil actually wasn't that bad but there is a reason I don't go back and read her stories again and again - like Chris' - her character's motivations and actions don't feel real and it is offputting.
Oh! Before I forget - most of the covers from the Classic X-Men run were done by Art Adams and almost every one of them is a picture I would hang on my walls. They are so damn gorgeous.
But even with those Nocenti stories - there is so much good in this omnibus - if you love Claremont's run on the X-Men (the early years), take it from me, you HAVE to get this Omnibus.
March 7, 2025
I finished reading the X-Men Classic Omnibus written primarily by Chris Claremont (among several others) with art by too many artists to name here. This omnibus collected issues #1-44 of the X-Men Classic series.
X-Men Classic was an odd book that ran from 1986-1990. The first 44 issues were reprints of Giant Size X-Men #1 and Uncanny X-Men #94-139 (effectively the first five years of Chris Claremont's tenured run of writing X-Men through the end of the climactic Dark Phoenix Saga). Each reprinted issue included a brand new, in-canon backup story (along with some changes to the reprinted issue at Claremont's discretion). This omnibus only included the backup stories as well as any new material added into the reprinted issue.
While none of the short backup stories were ground-breaking material, they did lay the groundwork additional character development outside of the main book. It was here that Wolverine's interest in Jean was spelled out, here that Banshee had a rivalry with his cousin Black Tom for the affections of Banshee's soon-to-be-dead wife, here that villainous characters were introduced "before" their true introduction to give way to their plots.
The stories were short and generally self-contained. They were often quieter, character focused moments. All of the main cast of Uncanny X-Men (and some beyond) had an issue or two to shine. Overall, I'd give it a 3/5. Good, but not great and far from bad. Given that there are several plot points that come out of this series, I would say it's a good read for any diehard X-Men fan. Casual readers probably don't need to seek it out.
X-Men Classic was an odd book that ran from 1986-1990. The first 44 issues were reprints of Giant Size X-Men #1 and Uncanny X-Men #94-139 (effectively the first five years of Chris Claremont's tenured run of writing X-Men through the end of the climactic Dark Phoenix Saga). Each reprinted issue included a brand new, in-canon backup story (along with some changes to the reprinted issue at Claremont's discretion). This omnibus only included the backup stories as well as any new material added into the reprinted issue.
While none of the short backup stories were ground-breaking material, they did lay the groundwork additional character development outside of the main book. It was here that Wolverine's interest in Jean was spelled out, here that Banshee had a rivalry with his cousin Black Tom for the affections of Banshee's soon-to-be-dead wife, here that villainous characters were introduced "before" their true introduction to give way to their plots.
The stories were short and generally self-contained. They were often quieter, character focused moments. All of the main cast of Uncanny X-Men (and some beyond) had an issue or two to shine. Overall, I'd give it a 3/5. Good, but not great and far from bad. Given that there are several plot points that come out of this series, I would say it's a good read for any diehard X-Men fan. Casual readers probably don't need to seek it out.
March 1, 2025
Fazia muito tempo que eu desejava ler essas histórias e nem sabia que elas existiam em formato omnibus. Elas foram publicadas no Brasil aqui e ali pela Editora Abril, mas a imensa maioria delas ficou de fora de ter uma versão brasileira. Isso finalmente foi corrigido e parabéns para a PaniniTM por essa ótima iniciativa. Vale dizer que nesse omnibus são publicadas vinhetas, pequenas histórias de bastidores dos X-Men, que eram incluídas na revista original Classic X-Men. Essa revista republicava de forma remasterizada a fase dos X-Men de Claremont. As vinhetas foram publicadas somente até a edição de Elegia da Fênix, depois continuaram apenas como republicações. Nelas sabemos bastidores sobre a infância de Ciclope, o passado de Banshee, de Wolverine, de Vampira, de Magneto, aprofundam-se as relações entre os personagens dessa fase nunca mostradas na continuidade normal, mas que valem para o cânone. Vale dizer que também tem histórias que não tem importância nenhuma, com as que abordam Kitty Pryde e Cristal, mas ainda assim é um deleite para grandes fãs dos mutantes finalmente terem esse material disponível em Português do Brasil.
June 16, 2022
This is a most impressive book... and this opinion has actually little to do with the actual contents. This is archival publications at its best: thorough, researched and filled with a lot of care and love.
Yes, the stated content is all here: all the suplemental stories written as "backups" (they are more than that), all the covers (even for those issues which are not collected due to having no new material), and the corrected or amended pages. But also, assorted covers from other projects, recaps of the contents of each of the original issues, context for the new stories, side by side comparisons of the amendments, and many details more that are a treasure trove for collectors.
This is a very specific book with a very specific audience in mind, and despite, or because of it, one that is very unique.
I may not enjoy all the actual stories in the book, yet, I rate the book itself very highly and wish there were more similar volumes, for many other collections, at Marvel and at all other publishers.
Yes, the stated content is all here: all the suplemental stories written as "backups" (they are more than that), all the covers (even for those issues which are not collected due to having no new material), and the corrected or amended pages. But also, assorted covers from other projects, recaps of the contents of each of the original issues, context for the new stories, side by side comparisons of the amendments, and many details more that are a treasure trove for collectors.
This is a very specific book with a very specific audience in mind, and despite, or because of it, one that is very unique.
I may not enjoy all the actual stories in the book, yet, I rate the book itself very highly and wish there were more similar volumes, for many other collections, at Marvel and at all other publishers.
March 2, 2018
X-Men Classic was the first comic book I read religiously as a kid - it basically is responsible for my love of comics and graphic novels. When I saw this omnibus I jumped on it...without reading the description properly! So for anyone looking for complete stories this is not for you, this collection only contains the material added to the original stories. There are no complete stories in this collection except for the short stories that were added at the end of the early issues. I was slightly disappointed but then thinking about it more clearly, this book would've had to have been at least 2 huge books to include all that material!
January 12, 2018
Yes, I bought all those stories again but this time in a nice big hard omnibus format! This volume is quite the treat if you read it alongside the X-Men Omnibus volumes 1 and 2 as it expands those late 1970's comics with new mid 1980's page and those lovely back-up strips.
April 20, 2021
3.5 stars. Only for seasoned x fans.
August 1, 2022
All the great back up stories that add even more to the classic run of Claremont on Uncanny X-men.
July 8, 2025
Omnibus de la sub-serie Classics de los X-Men con trabajos de Chris Claremont, Dave Cockrum, John Byrne, John Bolton, Ann Nocenti, Daryl Eldeman, Jo Duffy y Fabian Nicieza entre otros.
August 29, 2018
This is for Classic X-Men #30... somehow, Goodreads moves my review. This issue reprints Uncanny X-Men 124. "He Only Laughs When I Hurt!" And includes a New Arcade back-up story: "Play With Me." Both stories were fun. The X-Men had a a tough time with a less rigorous Murderworld. There was a small cameo by Captain Britain flashing back to Marvel Team Up. It was fun to see them split up and try to work through it. Play With Me was a great story and provides some insight into the mastermind Arcade’s psyche.
November 20, 2016
Boy these were pretty pointless stories.
The first one with the demons attacking and all, were pretty standard and not very good with its "well these things are just here" behavior.
The second one with Nightcrawler going out without hiding his appearance was ok, but it could have been better. I would have preferred that it would not have been Wolverine who convinced him
The first one with the demons attacking and all, were pretty standard and not very good with its "well these things are just here" behavior.
The second one with Nightcrawler going out without hiding his appearance was ok, but it could have been better. I would have preferred that it would not have been Wolverine who convinced him
October 5, 2015
Logan is dirty.
July 26, 2016
The first story was good; the second one weirded me out.
Merged review:
Great artwork and a good story, but some freaky visuals, as well as some tawdry ones, kept this from being as good as it could have been.
Merged review:
A fun and exciting old-school comic, with great artwork.
Merged review:
Synopsis: Two stories in one! First off: As the Dark Phoenix saga continues, the X-Men are trying to find out more about the Hellfire Club by visiting their old friend Angel and his gal pal Candy Southern...only for things to go horribly wrong! Lastly: Dazzler is trapped in a parking garage with a strange man. What could he be up to?
The Good: As old-school comics go, this was a fun one.
The Bad: The wardrobes were a bit too sultry.
Content Concerns:
Sex: Kissing.
Nudity: Jean Grey and Candy are seen in outfits that look like underwear; a rather buxom villainess wears an off-the-shoulder, tight top.
Language: Name-calling, at worst.
Violence: Fantasy violence throughout, especially in the first story.
Drugs: A character in the second story smokes; a "No Smoking" sign is seen.
Frightening/Intense Scenes: Emotional intensity; scary villains.
Merged review:
More old-school fun! I'm really enjoying these!
Merged review:
I liked the first story. The second? Not so much.
Merged review:
The first story was good; the second, not so much.
Merged review:
Two fun old-school stories, and a background nod to Star Wars. What's not to like?
Merged review:
More old-school fun!
Merged review:
The old-school fun continues!
Merged review:
Great artwork and a good story, but some freaky visuals, as well as some tawdry ones, kept this from being as good as it could have been.
Merged review:
A fun and exciting old-school comic, with great artwork.
Merged review:
Synopsis: Two stories in one! First off: As the Dark Phoenix saga continues, the X-Men are trying to find out more about the Hellfire Club by visiting their old friend Angel and his gal pal Candy Southern...only for things to go horribly wrong! Lastly: Dazzler is trapped in a parking garage with a strange man. What could he be up to?
The Good: As old-school comics go, this was a fun one.
The Bad: The wardrobes were a bit too sultry.
Content Concerns:
Sex: Kissing.
Nudity: Jean Grey and Candy are seen in outfits that look like underwear; a rather buxom villainess wears an off-the-shoulder, tight top.
Language: Name-calling, at worst.
Violence: Fantasy violence throughout, especially in the first story.
Drugs: A character in the second story smokes; a "No Smoking" sign is seen.
Frightening/Intense Scenes: Emotional intensity; scary villains.
Merged review:
More old-school fun! I'm really enjoying these!
Merged review:
I liked the first story. The second? Not so much.
Merged review:
The first story was good; the second, not so much.
Merged review:
Two fun old-school stories, and a background nod to Star Wars. What's not to like?
Merged review:
More old-school fun!
Merged review:
The old-school fun continues!
October 1, 2018
In the main story, it's a wonderful tale in which the X-Men fight a Lovecraftian demon. Great Cockrum art, with a psychedelic scene when Professor X reads the demon's mind. Continues the Claremont story, one of the first stories of the new X-Men. The back-up story (also by Claremont) is a neat little story of Nightcrawler and Wolverine, in which Wolverine dares Nightcrawler to walk through town with his image inducer turned off. The back-up stories make this series a nice companion piece to the original stories in Uncanny X-Men.
Merged review:
The back-up stories are worth the price of admission here. Claremont and John Bolton weave effective tales that turn this series from a simple reprint title into a relevant companion series to Uncanny X-Men. In this volume, John Proudstar meets his ultimate fate. In the back-up story, the X-Men meet Thunderbird's family. The main story is highlighted by wonderful Dave Cockrum art, with the artist at his peak. Claremont is also in top form here, near the beginning of his long run on X-Men.
Merged review:
The back-up stories are worth the price of admission here. Claremont and John Bolton weave effective tales that turn this series from a simple reprint title into a relevant companion series to Uncanny X-Men. In this volume, John Proudstar meets his ultimate fate. In the back-up story, the X-Men meet Thunderbird's family. The main story is highlighted by wonderful Dave Cockrum art, with the artist at his peak. Claremont is also in top form here, near the beginning of his long run on X-Men.
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