What If…? Galactus Turned Hulk #1

The Cosmic Conundrum: When Hulk Becomes the Herald of Galactus

Marvel Comics continues to captivate with its What If…? series, turning well-trodden paths into fresh quests of imagination. In the latest installment, What If…? Galactus Transformed Hulk?, the universe poses a curious question: What if Bruce Banner wielded the Power Cosmic? While the premise hints at vast possibilities, the execution leaves readers yearning for more.

Galactus and Banner’s Cosmic Bargain

The story opens with Galactus, the cosmic titan, approaching Bruce Banner. Galactus proposes making Hulk his newest herald, promising a role that suits the Incredible Hulk. In this cosmic pitch, Banner’s skepticism surfaces, but Galactus’ logic is hard to refute. If Hulk roams the cosmos, Earth would no longer fear his wrath.

(Image Source: Marvel / Lan Medina)

The narrative then dives into Banner’s new reality, where the Power Cosmic grants him unprecedented control over his Hulk transformations. Banner, now a cosmic enigma, uses this power to evacuate worlds destined for Galactus’ appetite. Yet, most planets refuse salvation, setting the stage for inevitable conflict.

A Clash of Titans

Enter the Avengers, now adversaries to their former ally. The heroes confront Cosmic Hulk when a Kree colony faces obliteration. Mat Groom weaves intriguing threads but struggles with conclusion. The plot underscores Banner’s isolation and the potential to redirect his genius and newly acquired powers. However, the story sidelined these themes, focusing instead on Hulk’s physical skirmish with Earth’s Mightiest Heroes.

Sadly, this showdown becomes dull with Tony Stark’s reliance on a cosmic harness. Instead of a true clash of cosmic titans, the battle falls into familiar territory. The story shifts abruptly as Hulk rebels against Galactus on behalf of those he once fought.

Visual Flourish Meets Narrative Hiccups

Despite its shortcomings, the comic delivers visually. Lan Medina’s art captures the immense power of Galactus and the Hulk with vivid clarity. Meanwhile, Juancho Velez enhances the panels through exceptional lighting.

Nonetheless, the narrative feels like an unfinished note, missing a stronger, more resolute climax. Exploring Banner’s transformation in depth and a more imaginative battle could have elevated the tale.

What If…? Galactus Transformed Hulk? offers an enticing premise and stunning art; however, it stumbles in delivering a compelling narrative conclusion. As Marvel’s cosmic playground continues to evolve, readers can only hope for richer explorations in future issues.

Grade: 5/10

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