Iron Man #1

Part of Marvel's 1998 "Heroes Return" initiative, this collector's first issue announces Iron Man's comeback in bold fashion — the cover by Sean Chen and Eric Cannon sends the Armored Avenger hurtling forward through billowing smoke clouds above a city skyline, repulsor blast blazing from his outstretched gauntlet while pursuit craft close in behind him. It's a dynamic, kinetic image that perfectly captures a hero surging back into action with something to prove. Writer Kurt Busiek and artist Sean Chen kick things off with "Looking Forward" — a title that says everything about the energy this creative team brings to a fresh start.