Ultimate Six #1

Marvel's Ultimate universe assembles its heavy hitters in this 2003 opener, with John Cassaday's cover presenting Captain America — shield at the ready — flanked by Iron Man, Thor's hammer-wielding figure, and a crouching Spider-Man, all rendered against a fiery orange backdrop. Looming over them in the background is a massive, menacing face that makes the stakes feel immediately ominous. With Brian Michael Bendis scripting and art from Trevor Hairsine, Ultimate Six #1 promises a collision between the Ultimates and something far more threatening than a routine villain.