Underrated Ally of the Fantastic Four Receives Major Makeover Before MCU Introduction

Warning: Spoilers Ahead for The Ultimates #8!

Marvel Cinematic Universe enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the live-action debut of the Fantastic Four, but recent developments in the comic realm have introduced a striking transformation to one of the team’s beloved allies. The new Ultimate Universe has been actively reimagining various Marvel characters, and the latest iteration of H.E.R.B.I.E. stands out as a particularly bold reworking.

Doom Communicating Through HERBIE Marvel

In the unfolding events of The Ultimates #8, crafted by Deniz Camp and Juan Frigeri, the titular group finds themselves in a cornfield, prompted to investigate a disturbing temporal anomaly signaled by Doom. The team grapples with confusion, fearing that the Maker has already escaped his domain, sparking a wave of distress.

A Radical Redesign for H.E.R.B.I.E.

H.E.R.B.I.E.: A Reminder of Ultimate Doom’s Identity

Doom Comments on Guardians of the Galaxy Marvel

The Maker, an evil variant of Reed Richards, has plans to reconstruct his universe upon his escape. Distinct from the original Ultimate Universe, this version of the Maker actively sabotages the emergence of heroes by manipulating their backstories. He even prevented Spider-Man from receiving his fateful bite and orchestrated the demise of the Fantastic Four—save for Reed Richards, whom he imprisoned. This new incarnation of Reed evolves into the new Doom, donning the villain’s signature mask. However, after allying with Tony Stark, they commit to thwarting the Maker’s designs once and for all.

While the robot accompanying the team is not officially named H.E.R.B.I.E., it fulfills a similar purpose. Designed by Reed to assist his allies, this H.E.R.B.I.E. diverges from the traditional model, manifesting more like the head of a Doombot, reflecting the altered history of this universe. This design choice cleverly conveys the true essence of this version of Doom. Although the Maker has transformed Reed into his adversary, the core of who Reed is—as Mister Fantastic—remains intact.

Despite Changes, the Ultimate Universe Retains Its Marvel Essence

Consistency Amidst Change in the Ultimate Marvel Universe

As Reed Richards’ variant endeavors to reshape an Earth in his own vision, it is easy to overlook his inherent goodness, especially while he dons the mask of his greatest foe. Yet, despite the trauma inflicted by the Maker, Reed’s intrinsic creative spark remains. He is still capable of envisioning and constructing innovations akin to H.E.R.B.I.E. While he may not be fully healed enough to replicate the classic version from Earth-616, there is hope that, as the Ultimates collaborate, this iteration of Reed may rediscover his passion for creation.

The Ultimates #8 is available now from Marvel Comics.

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