Ultimate X-Men #24

Part four of the "Hellfire and Brimstone" arc lands with real impact in this 2003 Marvel series, with a cover by Adam Kubert that puts a green-skinned, X-emblazoned Nightcrawler front and center — striking a dynamic combat pose as a massive explosion of fire and shattered debris erupts behind him. The tension practically radiates off the page, making it clear the penultimate chapter of this five-part story has the stakes cranked up high. Mark Millar and Kaare Andrews are at the helm of the interior, promising the same sharp energy the series had been delivering throughout this run.