From what we can tell, Marvel is certainly taking the upcoming Secret Empire crossover event seriously. In addition to a zero issue and a Free Comic Book Day offering being on the way, readers will soon have their chance to play catch up and see how the Marvel Universe got to this point.
In short, the Secret Empire Prelude trade paperback will collect various key stories published recently that one would consider to be required reading before witnessing Steve Rogers put his plans into action, specifically Captain America (2012) #21 & #25; material from Captain America: Sam Wilson #7 & #8; Avengers Standoff: Assault on Pleasant Hill Alpha, Avengers Standoff: Assault on Pleasant Hill Omega and Captain America: Steve Rogers #1 & #2.
Not surprisingly, the House of Ideas have opted to use the most eye catching of pieces possible in order to serve as cover art: The now infamous, internet-breaking image of Captain America saying the words “Hail Hydra.” Needless to say, it sparked extreme reactions on both sides of the fence last year and will likely continue to do so.
Secret Empire Prelude goes on sale on April 26. In the meantime, be sure to check out a synopsis for this can’t miss collected edition below:
Before the can’t-miss first issue of Secret Empire, experience for the first time or relive the moments that led to this shocking turn of events! Steve Rogers sacrifices all to defeat the Iron Nail! Falcon takes over as the high-flying Sentinel of Liberty! A Standoff in the shadowy town of Pleasant Hill rejuvenates Steve Rogers…but at what cost? And finally, relive the twist ending that sent shockwaves reverberating across the world. Captain America is secretly…a Hydra operative?!
