It all comes to…this?!?

So this is it, the final issue in a massive crossover event featuring two of Marvel’s most prevalent teams. Since the first issue premiered I stated my concern that the success or failure of this story would rely almost solely on its conclusion. Now it’s here.

From the onset AVENGERS VS. X-MEN had its share of peaks and valleys. Some issues stood out and brought hope for this story (Not her, I mean the emotional state which promotes the belief in a positive outcome), while other issues carried the classic over-used cliché formula expected from a story that’s main theme is teams of good guys stomping each other silly.

Which brings me to the main problem I have with this final round... that same tired formula. How many times have readers witnessed two groups of heroes face off sometimes even with good reason, only to be united just in time to take down the greater threat? It’s expedient for sure, but is also very contrived anymore.

As the climax approached I believed that Marvel would deviate from this overly simplistic plot device and astonish us with something a little less predictable. I mean, there was a few surprise in some of the previous issues. Nope, no such luck for the grand finale. As a poor substitute after 11 issues of squabbling (not to mention all the tie-ins) we are provided with an ending that failed to break any new ground.