Attention: This article contains spoilers for What If…? Season 3, Episode 8. In this latest episode, Marvel introduces a remarkable collection of nineteen new characters from various alternate universes, expanding the Disney+ animated series’ exploration of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
Across its three seasons, What If…? has provided intriguing glimpses into the countless timelines that make up the Marvel multiverse. Notable character introductions range from Infinity Ultron in Season 1, to Kahhori in Season 2, and the likes of Howard the Duck’s offspring Byrdie, alongside the Celestial-powered Agatha Harkness in Season 3. These characters have showcased some of the most formidable presences in the MCU’s narrative tapestry.
In the climactic moment of Season 3, Episode 8, a confrontation unfolds as the Watchers’ discipline of Uatu is interrupted by Captain Carter, Storm, Kahhori, and Byrdie. Their pledge to join the ranks of the Watchers aids Uatu’s salvation, prompting a reconsideration of the consequences of his actions. The episode culminates in a montage that hints at untapped character potentials residing within the alternative realms of the MCU.
19. Six-Armed Spider-Man
Peter Parker: Extra Limbs from The Six Arms Saga
This variant of Spider-Man features Peter Parker with four additional limbs, a transformation triggered by a failed serum experiment aimed at eliminating his spider powers. Interestingly, a 1992 issue of What If…? follows an alternate Spider-Man who is unable to shed these extra limbs but ultimately saves Gwen Stacy from the Green Goblin.
18. Samurai Ghost Rider / Ghost Ronin
A Fearsome Samurai of Vengeance
The Ghost Ronin is depicted as a samurai from the Edo period imbued with the Spirit of Vengeance. Decked out in traditional samurai attire and wielding a flaming katana atop a black steed, this character is inspired by the legendary warrior Miyamoto Musashi and fights alongside time-lapsed Avengers against Mephisto in an incarnation of Edo Japan.
17. Punisher Ironheart
Riri Williams as the Punisher
Presenting Riri Williams as a dynamic Punisher variant, she combines her technological prowess to adopt a darker persona. Unlike Frank Castle’s typical arsenal of firearms, this version utilizes advanced energy-based weaponry, complete with the iconic skull emblem associated with the Punisher.
16. Witch Gamora
Undead Sorceress Riding a Broom
This variant shows an enchanted Gamora, visually echoing Frankenstein’s monster, adorned with an ominous white gown while proficiently flying on a broom. The existence of mystical elements in the MCU was highlighted by Agatha’s confirmation that broom-riding is a witch practice, suggesting Gamora may also possess sorcery skills.
15. Moon Knight Blade
A Blade Variant chosen by Khonshu
In this intriguing crossover, Blade adopts the mantle of Moon Knight, donning a distinct white costume contrasted with a black mask, featuring luminous eyes. This character will crossover into the anticipated Marvel Zombies series on Disney+, paving the way for a more expansive exploration of both Blade and Moon Knight within the MCU.
14. The Thanosverine
A Fusion of Mad Titan and Wolverine
This unique amalgamation presents a version of Thanos equipped with Wolverine’s iconic adamantium claws. This implies that a variant of Weapon X may have happened on Titan, suggesting a deeper connection between his power and the character’s genesis.
13. Kingo Iron Man
Kingo as Iron Man in a Different Universe
This timeline features Kumail Nanjiani’s character Kingo donning an Iron Man suit, showcasing an alternate legacy where he becomes the Invincible Iron Man before Tony Stark’s birth, adding another layer to the interconnected storytelling of the MCU.
12. Wasp Ms. Marvel
A Unique Fusion of Powers
This character is either an enhancement of Wasp’s abilities with Kamala Khan’s energy or Kamala herself wearing the Wasp suit. Their abilities blur the lines of the multiverse, suggesting a profound connection through powers that may extend from the Quantum Realm.
11. Sorcerer Maestro Hulk
From Hulk to Sorcerer Supreme
This captivating variant imagines Maestro, Hulk’s sinister older self, taking on the mantle of Sorcerer Supreme, complete with the Cloak of Levitation. The intriguing possibilities of this character depict Hulk in a fresh magical light, ready to unleash chaotic powers.
10. Scarlet Wizard Howard The Duck
Howard the Duck Harnesses Chaos Magic
This character draws on themes from Wanda Maximoff‘s Scarlet Witch, showcasing Howard wielding chaos magic while dressed in a variant of her attire. His capabilities certainly enhance his already quirky character, leading to the playful title of “Scarlet Wizard.”
9. Demon Hawkeye
A Demon Dinosaur Variant of Clint Barton
Presenting a striking twist on Clint Barton, this version dons a classic purple costume, but with a demonic and dinosaur-like appearance. This variation potentially ties back to the roots of supernatural elements creeping into the Hawkeye lineage.
8. Dazzler Silver Surfer
A Nostalgic Reference to Classic Comics
In this concept, we see Dazzler as Galactus’ Herald, wielding abilities comparable to the Silver Surfer. This unique mash-up references the 1982 storyline where Dazzler utilizes the Power Cosmic, portraying a hero who reframes the Devourer of Worlds’ appetite.
7. Skrull Captain America
A Call Back to the Secret Invasion Plot
This character draws from the rich narrative of Marvel Comics’ Secret Invasion, depicting a Skrull impersonating Captain America — a clever nod that engages fans who appreciate the series’ intertwined history with cosmic elements.
6. Old-Timey Dane Whitman & Sersi
Historical Romance Across Time
This variant showcases Dane Whitman and Sersi as a couple set against the backdrop of the 1920s or 1930s. Their connection enriches the backstory of both characters, hinting at a world where their love flourished before external cosmic forces intervened.
5. Armed-To-The-Teeth Deadpool
An Exceptionally Armed Deadpool
This portrayal of Deadpool showcases him with an expansive weapon arsenal, potentially hinting at a universe where he played a role in the infamous storyline Deadpool Kills the Marvel Universe, allowing fans a glimpse into his darker, more chaotic side.
4. Young Hela
A Child Variation of Hela
This variant reveals a young Hela, maintaining her sinister aura but in a childlike form. Considering her established connections in prior MCU narratives, this representation invites speculation on her origins and potential future narratives.
3. Shang-Chi Star-Lord
Unexpected Variants of Star-Lord
In a unique twist, we see either Shang-Chi merging his skills with Star-Lord’s accessories or a version of Peter Quill wielding the Ten Rings. This combination promises exciting potential for power dynamics and storytelling across timelines.
2. Classic Lady Loki
A Nod to Lady Loki’s Comic Origins
This fleeting cameo features a classic black-haired Lady Loki clad in her comic-inspired green outfit, reminding viewers of the character’s rich comic history and her ability to adapt and transform in various narratives.
1. White Witch
A Nod to Amalgam Comics
This unique variant of Wanda Maximoff is donned in a striking white-and-red costume, which not only pays homage to the character’s evolution but also resonates with the themes in Amalgam Comics, merging elements of both Marvel and DC into an intriguing character design.
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