If there’s one thing that send waves of excitement through comic book nerds everywhere it’s epic battles between superhuman combatants. So you can imagine how excited comic book fans will be when two groups of these titans meet to do battle for the fate of the entire Marvel Universe.

Let’s just say it’s going to be epic. Want to know more? Of course you do.

Here’s all the scoop from the official Marvel press release:

From the powerhouse creative team of Brian Michael Bendis, Jason Aaron, Matt Fraction, Jonathan Hickman, Ed Brubaker, John Romita Jr., Adam Kubert and Olivier Copiel comes a groundbreaking event pitting Earth’s Mightiest against the X-Men with the entire Marvel Universe at stake. Cyclops and his team believe the arrival of the Phoenix Force will save mutantkind, but Captain America is convinced it will destroy the world! But who is right?

Who indeed? Check out an image of the first cover after the break. Look for Avengers vs. X-Men to hit store shelves on April 3.

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When you happen to be one of the biggest comic book and media companies in the world and you have all these characters you’ve created over the years, it must be difficult to figure out what to do with all of them. Well, if you’re Marvel, it seems like they’ve found an answer: have them fight each other.

Much like they did during the “Civil War” event from a few years back, a bunch of characters from the Marvel U, The Avengers and X-Men specifically, are being pitted against each other in a brand new upcoming comics event.

Here’s all the scoop directly from Marvel:

The Avengers and X-Men have learned that the all-powerful embodiment of both death and rebirth known as the Phoenix Force is on a crash course for Earth…and it needs a new host to unleash its immeasurable power. But what is the shocking decision tied to the Phoenix’s return that will pit the Avengers against the X-Men? And when good friends become bitter enemies, what does this mean for the future of the Marvel Universe?

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Everyone knows that Wednesday is new comic book day. While picking up your new issues consider looking at some of the trade paperbacks and hard covers of past issues and story lines. But which ones should you choose?

That’s why every Tuesday, The Flickcast will recommend a collection of comics that are just as good, if not better, than the issues you are currently buying. Books that deserve to be read, and bought the next time you walk into your local comic book store.

“This is not how the world ends.” – S.H.I.E.L.D #1

When most people think of S.H.I.E.L.D., they think of the secret spy organization that is lead by the one-eyed Nick Fury. This book is about the secret and ancient history behind the founding of that organization. Before you run away, spouting some nonsense saying that you don’t want to read a continuity heavy Marvel Universe story, let me assure you. There are little to no references to the Marvel Universe in this book.

S.H.I.E.L.D. is a historical mystery about a secret organization that we never knew existed starring figures from our past. Leonardo DaVinci? Check. Issac Newton? He’s here too. This book is a who’s who of scientific history.

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If there’s one particular Marvel comics series I’ve been enjoying for the last many months it’s Secret Avengers. The story and characters really seem to resonate with me and I really like where the series is going.

As pleased as I am with the series I was even more intrigued to learn that one of my favorite writers, Warren Ellis, was taking over the scripting duties on it. That work has now arrived with Secret Avengers #16 and, not surprisingly, it was hugely successful. In fact, it sold out and is going back for a second printing.

That second printing hits store shelves on September 28th. But wait, there’s more.

To get you interested in this great arc, we’ve got a preview for Ellis’ next issue for you today. In this one, Ellis is joined by artist Kev Walker and sends Steve Rogers and his team to Eastern Europe to stop a global bio-threat.

Can’t wait to check that one out. Sounds awesome.

Check out the preview for Secret Avengers #17 after the break. Look for it in comic store on September 28th too.

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I know it might seem a bit confusing sometimes what with many comics having unusual or long names these days. Ultimate Comics New Ultimates anyone? Fortunately, this one isn’t that long or confusing. Or is it? Anyway,what am I talking about?

I’m talking about Marvel’s upcoming Ultimate Comics Ultimates #2, which we have a preview of for you today. Here’s some scoop on the book directly from our pals at Marvel.

Marvel is pleased to present your first look at Ultimate Comics Ultimates #2 from the rockstar creative team of Jonathan Hickman and Esad Ribic. Ultimate Comics Reborn continues as the entire world begins to crumble around S.H.I.E.L.D., and the Ultimates are powerless against it! With their leader nowhere to be found, can Thor, Iron Man & Nick Fury pull together and stop the Tomorrow People before it’s too late?

I’m gonna go out on a limb here and say they probably will. However, that doesn’t mean I don’t want to read it and find out for sure. Fortunately, I’m going to get my chance pretty soon.

Look for Ultimate Comics Ultimates #2 to hit store shelves on September 28. Click through to check out the preview pages.

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In the world of Marvel comics I’ve always been more of a fan of Marvel’s Ultimates version of its Universe. I’m not sure why but maybe it’s the stark realism of that Universe or maybe it’s just Nick Fury looking like Samuel L. Jackson.

Whatever the reason, I like it. So, glad to see Marvel is coming out with another comic that takes place in that world called Ultimate Comics Ultimates. Here’s the scoop:

From the critically acclaimed creative team of Jonathan Hickman and Esad Ribic comes a comic where Iron Man, Hawkeye, Nick Fury & Thor are back together after the monumental events of Ultimate Comics Fallout. One of the biggest villains that ever faced the Ultimate Universe has returned. But with a teammate out of action, can the remaining members save the world as they struggle to find their place in the Ultimate Universe?

Yep, that sounds pretty good to me. This is one I’ll be picking up as soon as I can.

Check out the preview pages after the jump. Pick up Ultimate Comics Ultimates #1 in stores on August 24th.

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That’s right comic book fans, it’s that time of the week again. Well, in truth, it was yesterday but better late than never, right?

Anyway, new comics are out from our friends at Marvel this week and, as always, we’ve got some we’re really interested in reading. Among the new ones coming out, we’re looking forward to Fear Itself #3, Moon Knight #2,  X-Men #12, Uncanny X-Force #11 and SHIELD #1.

As with most weeks, new comics out on Wednesday (even with the holiday this week), so hit your nearest comic book store for best selection as many people may thing today is new comic book day this week.

Don’t know where your nearest comic store is? Use this handy guide to find one.

Comics On-Sale:

AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #663
ASTONISHING X-MEN #39
AVENGERS ACADEMY #14.1
AVENGERS, THOR & CAPTAIN AMERICA: OFFICIAL INDEX TO THE MARVEL UNIVERSE #4
CRIMINAL: LAST OF THE INNOCENT #1
DARK TOWER: THE GUNSLINGER – THE BATTLE OF TULL #1
FEAR ITSELF #3 (FI)
FEAR ITSELF #3 CAMUNCOLI VARIANT (FI)
FEAR ITSELF #3 IMMONEN VARIANT (FI)
FEAR ITSELF: THE DEEP #1 (FI)
HERC #4 (FI)
HEROES FOR HIRE #8
HULK #34
INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #503 2ND PRINTING VARIANT (FI)
MARVEL ZOMBIES CHRISTMAS CAROL #1
MOON KNIGHT #2
OZMA OF OZ #7
S.H.I.E.L.D. #1
S.H.I.E.L.D. #1 HISTORICAL VARIANT

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That’s right comic book fans, it’s that time of the week again. New comics are coming out from our friends at Marvel tomorrow and, as always, we’ve got some we’re really interested in reading.

Among the new ones coming out, we’re looking forward to Secret Warriors #27, Wolverine #9,  Secret Avengers #13, Deadpool #37 and FF #4.

As with most weeks, new comics arrive on Wednesday (that’s tomorrow!), so hit your nearest comics book store early for best selection.

Don’t know where your nearest comic store is? Use this handy guide to find one.

Comics On-Sale:
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #662
ASTONISHING SPIDER-MAN & WOLVERINE #6
CAPTAIN AMERICA #618
CAPTAIN AMERICA #618 X-MEN EVOLUTIONS VARIANT
DAKEN: DARK WOLVERINE #9.1
DEADPOOL #37
DISNEY*PIXAR PRESENTS: CARS
FEAR ITSELF: BOOK OF THE SKULL #1 2ND PRINTING VARIANT
FF #4
FF #4 DJURDJEVIC CHARACTER VARIANT
INCREDIBLE HULKS #629
IRON MAN 2.0 #5 (FI)
NAMOR: THE FIRST MUTANT #10
ONSLAUGHT UNLEASHED #4
ORSON SCOTT CARD’S SPEAKER FOR THE DEAD #5
POWER MAN AND IRON FIST #5

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That’s right comic book fans, it’s that time of the week again. New comics are coming out from our friends at Marvel tomorrow and, as always, we’ve got some we’re really interested in reading.

Among the new ones coming out, we’re looking forward to reading FF #3, New Avengers #12,  PunisherMax #13, Daredevil: Reborn #4, and X-Men #11.

As with most weeks, new comics arrive on Wednesday, so hit your nearest comics book store early for best selection.

Don’t know where your nearest comic store is? Use this handy guide to find one.

Comics On-Sale:
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #660
ASTONISHING X-MEN #7
BLACK PANTHER: THE MAN WITHOUT FEAR #518
CABLE & DEADPOOL MGC #1
DAKEN: DARK WOLVERINE #9
DAREDEVIL: REBORN #4
EMMA #3
FANTASTIC FOUR MGC #570
FEAR ITSELF: YOUTH IN REVOLT #1 (FI)
FF #3
FF #3 DJURDJEVIC CHARACTER VARIANT
FF #3 X-MEN EVOLUTIONS ZIRCHER VARIANT
FORMIC WARS: BURNING EARTH #5

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As we discussed on this week’s episode of The Flickcast, the Human Torch is dead and a new member has apparently joined the group previously known as the Fantastic Four. That character is, of course, the Amazing Spider-Man.

Now, thanks to Marvel, we’ve got a preview of the first issue of this comic featuring the new team for you today. Called FF, the new series comes from the creative team of writer Jonathan Hickman and artist Steve Epting and is described this way by Marvel:

“In the wake of the Human Torch’s heroic sacrifice, Marvels’ first family has re-emerged as the Future Foundation. Spider-Man may their newest teammate, but who else has signed up to protect the future from itself? And what does their presence portend for the world at large?”

I’m not sure, but it does sound interesting. Okay Marvel, you’ve got me. I’m hooked and will read — at least the first few issues.

Check out several pages from the comic after the jump. Marvel’s FF #1 hits comic book stores on March 23rd.

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Like many good things sometimes they have to come to an end. Even though we might not want them to it is often the case that a story and characters have run their course.

So it is with Marvel’s Fantastic Four who, after the recent tragic death of Johnny Storm (aka The Human Torch) are nearing the end of their comic book run. Of course, Marvel isn’t going to let them go out with a whimper. From the Marvel release:

Huge choices that dramatically impact the Marvel Universe are made this February in Fantastic Four #588, from the superstar creative team of Jonathan Hickman, Nick Dragotta and Mark Brooks! Following up on the sold-out hit Fantastic Four #587, Marvel is pleased to present your first look at the FINAL issue of the long-standing series, guest starring all your favorite Marvel heroes!

But the story isn’t over yet because where one door closes, another opens. It’s now up to Reed, Sue, and Ben to make life-changing decisions of their own volition that set them on a course destined to change the Marvel Universe in Johnny’s honor!

“The reaction from fans and retailers to Fantastic Four #587 was overwhelming and we’re excited to show fans, who have been chomping at the bit, to see what’s next!” exclaims SVP of Sales, David Gabriel. “It may be the end of the series, but it’s the beginning of something much bigger.”

Look for this comic to hit store shelves on February 31st. In the meantime, check out some preview pages after the jump.

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Just in time for the new year comes new comics straight from our pals at Marvel. With Christmas past there’s still time to get your hands on some great gifts before 2010 comes to a close.

Of the new comics dropping this week we’re most excited about Chaos War: X-Men #1, Nemesis #4, S.H.I.E.L.D. #5, X-23 $4 and Avengers #8. As with most weeks, new comics arrive on Wednesday so hit your nearest comics book store early for best selection.

Don’t know where your nearest comic store is? Use this handy guide to find one. Also, as an added bonus, don’t miss the Marvel 2011 Calendar, free for all fans and only available at your local comics shop this week.

Comics On-Sale:
ASTONISHING SPIDER-MAN & WOLVERINE #4
ASTONISHING X-MEN: XENOGENESIS #4
AVENGERS #8
BULLSEYE: PERFECT GAME #2
CAPTAIN AMERICA #613
CARNAGE #2
CARNAGE #2 ADAMS VARIANT
CHAOS WAR: X-MEN #1
DAKEN: DARK WOLVERINE #4
DAKEN: DARK WOLVERINE #4 DJURDJEVIC VARIANT
DEADPOOL CORPS #9
DEADPOOL TEAM-UP #886
HALO: FALL OF REACH – BOOT CAMP #3
HEROIC AGE: X-MEN #1
HULK #28
INCOGNITO: BAD INFLUENCES #2

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