Paul O'Brien writes:
Crossover season continued in June, with SECRET INVASION and its tie-ins still leading Marvel’s output. But this time round, the event hasn’t completely taken over Marvel’s output. There’s also the heavily promoted ULTIMATE ORIGINS series, and two new ongoing titles: SKAAR, SON OF HULK and ETERNALS.
As usual, Marvel had the dominant share of the North American direct market. If you go by Diamond’s figures, Marvel had a 48% unit share compared to DC’s 30%. In dollar terms, their lead was smaller but still commanding: 42% to 30%.
After the first issue debuted to critical acclaim, Marvel is pleased to announce Ultimate Origins #2 has sold out at Diamond and will return with Ultimate Origins #2 Second Printing Variant! As more secrets are revealed, the demand for this March on Ultimatum tie-in has been staggering! The second issue of the shocking series by superstar team Brian Michael Bendis and Butch Guice, shined light on the origin of everyone’s favorite Ultimate Star-Spangled Avenger, Captain America! Plus, an explosive new cover featuring the interiors of Butch Guice!
Debuting to critical acclaim, Ultimate Origins #1 has sold out at Diamond (though copies may still be available at the retail level)! Even with Marvel’s largest retailer incentive ever, a massive overprint, and tremendous support from retailers, the demand for this March on Ultimatum tie-in has been overwhelming! The first issue of the shocking series by Brian Michael Bendis (Secret Invasion) and Butch Guice, revealed the origin of mutants in the Ultimate Universe—and how it’s all tied to everyone’s favorite Canucklehead!
“Everything is connected!” The story that delves into the intricacies and unknown secrets of the Ultimate Universe is here. Superstar writer Brian Michael Bendis nurtures the seeds planted at the Universe’s very inception and sheds light on the secrets that will shake the universe to it’s core in Ultimate Origins #1 (of 5). Complimented by the stunning art from Butch Guice, readers will be on the edge of their seats and wanting more as information regarding the Super Soldier and Weapon X programs are unveiled.
The latest Marvel podcast is now available for your listening pleasure as fan favorite host and Senior Art Director Jeff Suter sits down with the man behind the origins of the Ultimate Universe – Brian Michael Bendis! Here’s your chance to go behind-the-scenes and into the House of Ideas as Bendis talks about the makings of the Ultimate Universe and how “everything’s connected.” And be on the lookout for Bendis’ Ultimate Origins series as the history of this unique universe is revealed this summer!
You've been given the 10 reasons why you cannot miss Ultimate Origins. You've seen the gorgeous covers by Simone Bianchi and Gabriele Dell'Otto. You've seen the awesome variant and sketch variant covers by Michael Turner. Now, you can read 6 lettered preview pages of Ultimate Origins #1 to tide you over before you pick up your copy next Wednesday, June 4th.
The secrets behind the Ultimate Universe are about to be revealed.

