New Avengers #17 (2016) – Comic Review & Breakdown
𧏠Genre
Superhero, Action, Sci-Fi, Political Intrigue
This issue combines high-octane superhero action with espionage elements and political tension, typical of Marvel’s more grounded, modern storytelling.
đŠž♂️ Main Characters
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Roberto Da Costa / Sunspot – Leader of the New Avengers and head of A.I.M.
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Toni Ho – Genius engineer and daughter of Ho Yinsen, playing a key role in the team’s tech support.
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Squirrel Girl – The quirky, unexpected powerhouse with a sharp wit and unbeatable energy.
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Songbird – Ex-villain turned hero, now deeply embedded in the team’s leadership structure.
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Pod / Aikku Jokinen – A mysterious techno-organic warrior struggling with dual identities.
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S.H.I.E.L.D. Director Maria Hill – The face of institutional authority and moral ambiguity.
✍️ Writer
Al Ewing
Known for his cosmic storytelling and brilliant use of underdog characters, Ewing pushes boundaries in this issue with layered dialogue, tight pacing, and shocking twists.
đš Artist
Paco Medina
Medina's dynamic paneling and expressive characters bring the tension to life. His action sequences burst with kinetic energy while still maintaining narrative clarity.
✏️ Editor Details
Editor: Tom Brevoort
Veteran Marvel editor Brevoort ensures continuity and emotional stakes remain strong, especially with the Civil War II backdrop adding weight to every decision.
đą Publisher and Brand
Marvel Comics – All-New, All-Different Marvel
This issue falls under Marvel’s All-New, All-Different era, a bold initiative to modernize and diversify its core lineup following Secret Wars (2015).
đ Release Year
2016
Published during the height of Civil War II, this issue reflects Marvel’s commitment to interconnected storylines with real consequences.
𧩠Brief Plot Summary
Everything’s collapsing around the New Avengers. In New Avengers #17, Roberto Da Costa, also known as Sunspot, takes a bullet to the head, leaving the team shaken to its core. Meanwhile, S.H.I.E.L.D. launches a full-blown assault on A.I.M., whose status as a "legit" organization is under question. As the skies darken, Air Force One enters freefall — and with it, the fate of American leadership. The New Avengers must act fast, but not all will walk away unscathed. With allegiances cracking and secrets surfacing, this issue marks the explosive crescendo of a high-stakes arc. đ„
đ Notable Arcs or Storylines
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A.I.M. vs S.H.I.E.L.D.: Central to this issue is the ideological and physical clash between Roberto’s reformed A.I.M. and the shadowy control of S.H.I.E.L.D.
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Civil War II Tie-In: The issue intricately weaves into the larger Marvel event, expanding on the personal and political rifts among heroes.
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The Fall of Sunspot?: Roberto’s fate teeters on the edge, fueling long-term consequences for the team's structure and future leadership.
đź Fan Theories or Interpretations
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Sunspot's Death or Rebirth? Fans speculate whether Roberto’s apparent demise is a red herring or the beginning of a transformation — possibly tied to his omega-level mutant potential.
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Hidden Agendas in S.H.I.E.L.D.: Some interpret Maria Hill’s aggression as part of a deeper conspiracy — possibly hinting at infiltration or manipulation within the agency.
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A.I.M.'s Legacy: Could Da Costa’s version of A.I.M. live on as a true hero organization, or is the dream destined to collapse under internal betrayal?
đ Review Summary
New Avengers #17 is a gripping and chaotic entry that thrives on its unpredictability. Al Ewing’s writing is sharp, confident, and character-driven, while Paco Medina’s art enhances the emotional and physical impact of each page. The stakes are genuinely high, with real consequences for beloved characters. Character arcs, especially Roberto’s, are pushed to dramatic limits, offering fans a satisfying blend of tension, action, and heartfelt moments. Overall, this issue is a thrilling payoff that delivers on the promise of its slow-building narrative. đđđđ½
Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)
