X-Men '97 May Draw From These Classic Apocalypse Comics
Polygon identifies five potential storylines the animated revival could adapt for its next chapter.
As X-Men '97 continues its revival of the 1990s animated series, fans are asking which comic arcs will shape Apocalypse's role going forward. The ancient mutant En Sabah Nur has emerged as a central threat, and the show's willingness to remix decades of comics suggests writers are drawing from deep continuity.
Polygon analyzed five classic Apocalypse storylines that could influence the series, from time-travel epics to supernatural battles. X-Men '97 has proven it will adapt even obscure Marvel continuity, as seen in its handling of major events like Genosha's fall.
Time-Travel and the Birth of Sinister
"The Further Adventures of Cyclops and Phoenix" sends Scott Summers and Jean Grey to 1859 England, where they attempt to stop Apocalypse from conquering Victorian Britain. There they witness a pivotal moment: Apocalypse's role in transforming Nathaniel Essex into Mr. Sinister. This origin has never been fully animated, and its period setting would expand the show beyond contemporary superhero conflict.
The Twelve and Clan Askani
"The Twelve" storyline centers on mutants targeted by Sentinels, with their identities leaked by Sanctity, a time-traveler from Clan Askani. This arc ties into Apocalypse's obsession with mutant evolution and could support multiple character threads.
Ancient Battles and Supernatural Feuds
Less conventional options include Apocalypse's 2620 BC battle against the alien Brood, fought alongside Pharaoh Imhotep and an ancient Moon Knight. Even more obscure: a 2006 miniseries detailing a blood feud between Apocalypse and Dracula, beginning in 1400s Romania and culminating in an alliance with Abraham Van Helsing. Both would push the series into uncharted territory, blending superhero action with historical and horror elements.
What This Means for Viewers
Because X-Men '97 remixes comic history rather than adapting directly, these reference points let fans anticipate twists without expecting panel-for-panel recreations. Time-travel or alternate-history elements would signal the writers' willingness to expand beyond standard superhero conflict.
As production continues on future seasons, these five arcs represent the comic foundation that could inform Apocalypse's next chapter — whether adapted faithfully or used as jumping-off points for original storytelling.