Marvel Spotlight #9

Captain Universe blazes to life in this 1980 Marvel Spotlight issue, with Steve Ditko's cover depicting the white-and-blue costumed hero in fierce mid-battle action, hurling an enemy overhead while surrounded by a crowd of shadowy, menacing figures in a darkened cityscape. Looming ominously above the fray is a massive dark presence — all rendered in Ditko's kinetic, angular style that gives the scene real urgency. With Bill Mantlo scripting "The Mystery of Mister E!" and Ditko handling both pencils and inks inside as well, this is a compelling showcase for one of Marvel's more distinctive cosmic concepts.