A Deep Dive into the Legacy of 'X-Men #1': Why It Still Reigns Supreme
Sarah Marsh
Published May 15, 2026
Published Apr 18, 2026, 9:32 AM EST
Robert Wood, a prolific writer and editor hailing from Cheshire, England, brings his creative flair to the world of comics with 'The False Elephant: And 99 Other Unreasonably Short Stories'—a collection featuring 100 tales, each precisely 100 words long.
His journey into the realm of comics began with classics like Bendis' Ultimate Spider-Man and the UK anthology 'The Mighty World of Marvel,' which introduced readers to iconic characters such as Daredevil, Hulk, and the original Contest of Champions II.
Before diving into journalism, Wood honed his craft in copywriting and editing for Oxford University Press, a background that clearly informs his sharp, precise storytelling style.
Follow Robert Wood on X as @PinchTwigs and Instagram as roobwoodjourno.
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Thank you for joining us for this exploration of comic book history.
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It's been 35 years since Marvel published the best-selling comic of all time in 1991's , but does it hold up? Coming from and superstar artist Jim Lee, it's not a shock that X-Men #1 was a success, but did it deserve to set a record which is unlikely to ever be beaten?
That's what I aim to find out in this retro review, as we head back in time to read X-Men #1 all over again and see whether it still deserves its crown.
Featured Images:
Cyclops on X-Men cover from 1991
1991 x-men 1 cover showing wolverine
Image comics characters
Archangel and Colossus in X-Men 1
Gambit vs Magneto in 1991's X-Men 1
Magneto striking in Jim Lee and Chris Claremont's X-Men 1
Rogue's new costume in X-Men 1 from 1991
X-Men #1 Retrospective: The Art
Jim Lee didn't just co-write and draw X-Men #1—he designed all-new costumes for icons like Cyclops, Rogue, and Wolverine, creating looks that endure in pop culture today.
The issue's visuals blend bold lines, vibrant colors, and dynamic compositions, capturing a moment where comic artistry felt both groundbreaking and timeless.
From Magneto's menacing presence to the X-Men's iconic team dynamics, every panel tells a story of legacy and innovation.
This deep dive uncovers why X-Men #1 remains a benchmark for comic excellence, blending art, writing, and cultural impact into a singular masterpiece.
