Review: Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Season 1

Favourite Ranger: Trini Kwan, The Yellow Power Ranger

Favourite Villain: Goldar

Favourite Episode: "Green With Evil" (Parts I-V)

Least Favourite Ranger: Jason Lee Scott, The Red Power Ranger

Least Favourite Villain: Squatt

Least Favourite Episode: "For Whom The Bell Trolls"

When it comes to the 1990s, very little defines the decade more than the seminal television series Mighty Morphin Power Rangers. This action-oriented show focused on the adventures of five plucky teenagers as they did battle against the nefarious witch Rita Repulsa and her army of outlandish monsters. It jumpstarted a craze and turned the Power Rangers into a veritable franchise. Nearly three decades later, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers stands strong as a fondly regarded piece of nostalgia for many children of the '90s.

Having premiered in 1993, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers is understandably quite dated. The costuming is gag worthy, the acting is over-the-top and the special effects are laughable. While this would largely be regarded as faults to hold against the show, it ends up coming across more as endearing in a fuzzy nostalgic sense. Remarkably, the show's themes and characters have stood the test of time. Its concerns with the environment and the importance of teamwork continue to be relevant in today's society, while the characters are surprisingly well-written and are truly relatable.

The Rangers are the stars of the show and together they form an incredibly well-balanced team. You've got the infallible leader, the spunky valley girl, the brainiac, the kind-hearted activist and the showboating hip-hop dancer. As a kid, I was all about Pink Ranger Kimberly. She's sassy and bubbly, but also a little vapid. As the most traditionally feminine member of the team, this separated her from the others and made an impression on me when I was younger. It certainly also helped that she was the most wise-cracking of the bunch. Now that I'm older, I've come to appreciate Yellow Ranger Trini more and have come to see her as the underdog in the show. She's an incredibly talented martial artist and is a passionate environmental activist with a penchant for collecting dolls. She's much more level-headed than her teammates and her friendship with Blue Ranger Billy is quite endearing. Similarly, Black Ranger Zack is a standout due to his charismatic personality, flashy dance moves and his unrequited love for his classmate Angela (one of the very few recurring plot points to the series).

Sadly, not all Rangers are created equal. Admittedly the team's leader, Red Ranger Jason, is quite bland. He's a martial arts whiz and a football player, but that's about as far as they delve into his character. He's simply not as well defined as his teammates. Tragically, Billy fades into the background due to his mousy personality. This isn't helped by the fact that he receives the fewest episodes focused around his character, no doubt a result of the astronomical popularity of Kimberly and her beau Tommy later in the season.

As far as the writing is concerned, Power Rangers' episodes vary in quality. There's a lot of fluff and filler, with many episodes resulting in zero character or plot development. By and large, the reason for this is due to a lack of story arcs and the vagueness of the villains' motivations. There's no question that the Rangers are written well, but their foes don't receive the same kind of attention. Rita Repulsa and her henchmen may scrape by on their kooky personalities, but they have no depth or motivations. She wants to destroy the Earth and is hellbent on getting rid of the Rangers, yet there's very little psychology behind this. While Goldar and his rivalry with both the Green and Red Rangers help to buoy his character, Rita's henchmen are question marks in terms of their inner workings. Sadly, one of the most underused villains of the season is Scorpina. As such, all of this leads to way too much filler within the first season and this formulaic quality to it makes many episodes quite forgettable. 

That said, there are some truly memorable moments from this season. Episodes focused on Kimberly or Zack tend to be surefire winners, as they tend to perfectly showcase their personality and serve to deepen their characters. Thankfully, these are plentiful. There are also a handful of multi-part episodes that are outstanding. The legendary five part "Green With Evil" saga was responsible for introducing both the Green Ranger and the femme fatale Scorpina, while future Green Ranger-centric episodes such as "The Green Candle" and "Return of an Old Friend" were equally as satisfying.

Odds are that if you didn't grow up in the '90s, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers will be a strange and questionably campy viewing experience. For the rest of us, it is a series that will strike a chord and instantly take us back to our childhood. It's just like spending time with old friends and is recommended for those who don't take life too seriously. If anything, Power Rangers will remind us of simpler times and may perhaps help wipe away some of the cynicism that we were tarred with later in life. 

Review: Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Crystal - Episode 11

After Tuxedo Mask is kidnapped by the Dark Kingdom, he returns brainwashed with a mission to uncover the Sailor Guardians' command centre. Meanwhile, the girls are eager to find out more about the mysterious sword they brought back with them from the Moon.

In "Act 11: Reunion," a brainwashed Mamoru weasels his way into working for Crown Arcade and plays with Usagi's emotions in the process. His newly acquired hypnotic powers make him dangerous, especially since his goal is to manipulate Usagi into telling him where their headquarters are. This evil Mamoru is understandably quite creepy, so it's a relief that Usagi doesn't give into him willingly (since previous versions of the character would have).

Aside from the scenes involving Mamoru and Usagi, this episode gives the other Sailor Guardians some much needed attention. We get to see them in a much more active role as friends and as heroes, which helps to flesh out their personalities. Early in the episode Rei expresses her embarrassment over Usagi's loudness, while later the girls surveil Mamoru at the arcade and interrogate Motoki's friend Reika regarding the matter. Another standout scene involves Sailor Venus dominating the battlefield with her clever whip technique, thus proving she's totally badass. By giving these characters an independent focus, it gives us a better glimpse of who they are and establishes them as heroines we can root for. That said, the glaring issues from previous episodes regarding these characters still stands. They're still relegated to being part of the supporting cast and they're way too easily bested in battle.

After the mess that was "Act 10: MOON," this episode is a breath of fresh air. The pacing is on-point, the characters are well-written and the direction is excellent. While the animation is awkward at times, "Act 11: Reunion" is one of the strongest entries thus far in the series. 

Top 10: Best X-Men Line-Ups

When it comes to superheroes, very few teams are more popular and recognizable than Marvel's X-Men. As with any group, their ranks have changed over the years to include new characters or to bring back old ones. Many of these variations have become just as iconic as the individuals themselves. From the original group from the swingin' '60s to the '90s-rific Blue Team, this post takes a look at the top ten greatest X-Men line-ups. 

10. Astonishing Team, Redux

(Astonishing X-Men Vol. 3 #48-68)

ROSTER: Gambit, Iceman, Karma, Northstar, Cecilia Reyes, Warbird, Wolverine

When the businesswoman turned supervillain Susan Hatchi sought to acquire the nation of Madripoor, she used the X-Men as pawns in her twisted game. These X-Men were an eclectic bunch and easily became one of the most diverse rosters in recent years. It included two LGBTQ characters, as well as three women of colour. This was especially important for a franchise whose struggles have been an analogy for homophobia and racism. Aside from the diversity angle, this team was notable for its familial vibe. Writer Marjorie Liu took the time to nurture the relationships between these characters and it really helped to make them that much more captivating.

09. Original Team

(X-Men Vol. 1 #1-66)

ROSTER: Angel, Beast, Cyclops, Iceman, Marvel Girl
LATECOMERS: Havok, Mimic, Polaris

Created by the legendary Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, the original X-Men were five teenagers who banded together under the tutelage of Professor Charles Xavier to save the world that fears them. As the first mutants to fight for Xavier's Dream, nostalgia for this line-up is high. In fact, Marvel continually revisits this group due to its iconic status. In titles like X-Men: The Hidden Years and X-Men: First Class, writers have revisited this team in their early days. More recently they've become the focus of Brian Michael Bendis' best-selling All-New X-Men series.

08. Gold Team

(Uncanny X-Men Vol. 1 #281-315)

ROSTER: Archangel, Bishop, Colossus, Iceman, Jean Grey, Storm

Following the events of the crossover X-Tinction Agenda, the ranks of the X-Men swelled to the size of a small army. To address this, they were split into two squads. Storm was given control of the Gold Strike Team, which dealt with threats from the future and Colossus' villainous brother Mikhail Rasputin. Her group was more classic in its line-up, especially since it featured three of the five original X-Men. However, it was also notable for the inclusion of '90s newcomer Bishop.

07. All-Female Team

(X-Men Vol. 4 #1-?)

ROSTER: Jubilee, Psylocke, Rachel Grey, Storm

EARLY DEPARTURES: Kitty Pryde, Rogue

LATECOMERS: Monet St. Croix

There's no denying that the X-Men have some of the fiercest superheroines in their ranks. That's why it's so surprising that it took so long to get an all-female squad for the franchise. This group, currently appearing in the pages of X-Men, became the first of its kind and is notable for emphasizing the sisterhood formed amongst the X-Women. As far as its membership is concerned, Storm leads a crop of A-listers and fan-favourites who are considered some of the most powerful mutants in the universe. Of course, it could still use a pinch of Dazzler to make it perfect.

06. Rogue's Team

(X-Men Vol. 2 #188-204)

ROSTER: Cable, Cannonball, Iceman, Mystique, Rogue, Sabretooth

LATECOMERS: Lady Mastermind, Omega Sentinel

After Cyclops grants Rogue the opportunity to lead her own team, she puts together one of the most unconventional and dysfunctional rosters the X-Men have ever had. While she recruited trusted allies like Iceman and Cannonball, Rogue was certainly asking for trouble when she threw three supervillains into the mix. This is undoubtedly what made this trainwreck so interesting and made the ride that much more fun.

05. X-Treme Sanctions Executive Team

(Uncanny X-Men Vol. 1 #444-474)

ROSTER: Bishop, Marvel Girl, Sage, Storm, Wolverine
EARLY DEPARTURES: Cannonball
LATECOMERS: Psylocke, X-23

When Storm is deputized to deal with mutant-related crimes, she and her X.S.E. set about establishing themselves as an authority in a world that hates their kind. This band of X-Men featured a stellar cast that felt like a return to the glory days of the 1980s, especially since Chris Claremont was on hand to write their adventures. Beyond the A-list status of its members, this group was so compelling due to their closeness and their interactions. This wasn't just a group of musclebound superheroes, this was a family.

04. Astonishing Team

(Astonishing X-Men Vol. 3 #1-24)

ROSTER: Beast, Colossus, Cyclops, Emma Frost, Kitty Pryde, Wolverine

LATECOMERS: Armor

Following the conclusion of Grant Morrison's critically-acclaimed run on New X-Men, Buffy the Vampire Slayer creator (and future Avengers director) Joss Whedon made his X-Men debut with this beloved team in the pages of Astonishing X-Men. This small but mighty group was instantly iconic and completely rejuvenated the X-Men's universe. While it certainly helped that its members were legends, what made this team so compelling was that they felt like a love letter to the seminal Post-Dark Phoenix Saga material from the 1980s.

03. Outback Team

(Uncanny X-Men Vol. 1 #214-250)

ROSTER: Colossus, Dazzler, Havok, Longshot, Psylocke, Rogue, Storm, Wolverine

In the late-1980s, X-Men scribe Chris Claremont defied the status quo when he moved the X-Men from their home in New York to the dusty expanses of the Australian Outback. This would be the biggest shake-up in the team's history since the introduction of the all-new, all-different X-Men in the mid-1970s. Formed in the wake of the devastating massacre of the Morlocks at the hands of the Marauders, this team took a proactive approach to combatting the forces that threatened mutant kind. With newcomers Psylocke, Dazzler and Longshot on-hand, this roster was a breath of fresh air and focused on the budding interpersonal relationships between its members. It also helps that the stories from this era were among some of the best in the history of the X-Men.

02. Blue Team

(X-Men Vol. 2 #1-34)

ROSTER: Beast, Cyclops, Gambit, Jubilee, Psylocke, Rogue, Wolverine

When the Jim Lee-helmed X-Men hit shelves in 1991, it broke sales records and became an instant hit. The title saw Cyclops leading his squad of X-Men, then known as the Blue Strike Team, against forces such as Omega Red, Mojo and long-time foe Magneto. This roster became the defining membership of the X-Men in the '90s and was the basis for the legendary X-Men: The Animated Series. Aside from the overwhelming popularity of this line-up, the Blue Team was brilliantly composed and featured a balanced mix of power and skill types. It also birthed intriguing character relationships, some of which included Rogue and Gambit's on-off courtship, Psylocke's pursuit of Cyclops and Wolverine's mentorship of Jubilee.

01. 1980s Team

(X-Men Vol. 1 #139-141, Uncanny X-Men Vol. 1 #142-213)

ROSTER: Colossus, Kitty Pryde, Nightcrawler, Storm, Wolverine

EARLY DEPARTURES: Angel, Cyclops

LATECOMERS: Magneto, Rachel Grey, Rogue

Following the conclusion of the epic Dark Phoenix Saga, the X-Men entered into what would be one of their most critically-acclaimed and commercially successful eras. With Cyclops taking a leave of absence from the team, Storm took over as leader and this tenure would be one of the longest in the history of the team. While the line-up of her team fluctuated over the years, it was bolstered by mainstays Wolverine, Kitty Pryde, Colossus, Nightcrawler and Rogue. This brilliant mix of outcasts captured the attention of readers and singlehandedly defined the 1980s. 

Top 10: Greatest Women of Marvel Comics

When it comes to strong heroines, Marvel has some of the most diverse leading ladies in the superhero genre. These women have graced the small screen, big screen and, of course, the pages of countless comic books. While they don't always get as much love as their male counterparts (or even their rivals at DC Comics), there's no denying that Marvel's superheroines are fierce and fabulous.

Having previously counted down the Top 10 Greatest Women of the X-Men and the Top 10 Greatest Women of DC Comics, this entry focuses on the women from Marvel proper. To encourage fairness and a little more objectivity, this list has been compiled using the votes from The Women of Marvel Poll.

10. Firestar

REAL NAME: Angelica Jones

FIRST APPEARANCE: Uncanny X-Men Vol. 1 #193 (1985)

SPECIAL ABILITIES: Microwave Radiation Manipulation, Flight

When she was thirteen years old, Angelica Jones was recruited and trained by the former villain Emma Frost to become an assassin for the Hellfire Club. Upon learning of her mentor's true intentions, Angelica emancipated herself and transformed herself into the heroine known as Firestar. After a lengthy tenure with a group of teen heroes called the New Warriors, Firestar became a member of the Avengers and later served as a mentor for the next generation of superheroes.

Originally created for the seminal Spider-Man & His Amazing Friends cartoon as a replacement for the Human Torch, Firestar's popularity guaranteed her transition into the comic book canon. Though she's most well-known for her appearances in the aforementioned series, her stints with the New Warriors, Avengers, Marvel Divas and, most recently, the X-Men have cemented her place in the Marvel Universe as a beloved icon.

09. Elektra

REAL NAME: Elektra Natchios

FIRST APPEARANCE: Daredevil Vol. 1 #168 (1981)

SPECIAL ABILITIES: Master Martial Artist

When Elektra Natchios was still in college, her father was gunned down by terrorists. The embittered Elektra then trained to become a martial artist in order to avenge her father's death. After completing her training in China, she returned to America where she was employed by New York City's Kingpin as his chief assassin. Though she would later meet her end at the hands of the villain known as Bullseye, Elektra was resurrected and dedicated her life to repenting for her past sins.

As one of the deadliest women in the Marvel Universe, Elektra is as beautiful as she is dangerous. She has been a key player in both Daredevil and Wolverine's comics, as well as headlining several of her own mini-series and ongoing series. If her illustrious comic book career weren't enough, Elektra has also been adapted into numerous video games and even appeared in two live-action films portrayed by Jennifer Garner.

08. Scarlet Witch

REAL NAME: Wanda Maximoff

FIRST APPEARANCE: X-Men Vol. 1 #4 (1964)

SPECIAL ABILITIES: Probability Manipulation

Raised as a gypsy, Wanda Maximoff and her brother Pietro became indebted to the mutant terrorist Magneto after he saved them from a lynch mob. Taking on the codename Scarlet Witch, Wanda used her unique gifts to further Magneto's agenda. However, she gave up her life of crime and instead became one of the longest running members of the Avengers.

With just over five decades of comic book appearances under her crimson-hued belt, there's no denying that Scarlet Witch is an icon. Equally reviled and loved for her cooky history, this probability-altering mutant has been a member of the Avengers for longer than most of her contemporaries. She's powerful, beautiful and a little bit batty. Still, fans can't get enough. Thanks to appearances in X-Men: Evolution, Avengers: United They Stand and her upcoming appearance in Avengers: Age of Ultron, she's become one of the most recognizable heroines in Marvel's stable.

07. Wasp

REAL NAME: Janet van Dyne

FIRST APPEARANCE: Tales to Astonish Vol. 1 #44 (1963)

SPECIAL ABILITIES: Size Manipulation, Flight, Bio-Electric Energy Blasts

Once a flighty socialite, Janet van Dyne was transformed into the winsome Wasp thanks to her then-boyfriend Hank Pym's experiments. She was a founding member of the Avengers and went on to become one of the longest running leaders for the team. Over the years Janet would endure her fair share of drama in her personal life, but her zest for life and resourcefulness have made her an incredible superhero.

While she may have once been the weakest link on the Avengers, Wasp's evolution into one of the team's chairpersons has mirrored that of Storm from the X-Men. She's smart, she's sassy and she's got a wardrobe so huge that it would put Carrie Bradshaw to shame. With her appearances in cartoons like Avengers: United They Stand and Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes, she has ruled the small screen and her legacy will no doubt be felt later this year in Ant-Man.

06. Spider-Woman

REAL NAME: Jessica Drew

FIRST APPEARANCE: Marvel Spotlight Vol. 1 #32 (1977)

SPECIAL ABILITIES: Superhuman Strength, Speed, Stamina, Agility, Reflexes and Senses, Flight, Bio-Electric Energy Blasts, Resistance to Poison and Radiation, Ability to Adhere to Walls

At a young age, a sickly Jessica Drew was injected with an irradiated spider serum that cured her and subsequently gave her superhuman abilities. After the death of her mother, Jessica was captured by the terrorists known as HYDRA and was brainwashed into becoming an assassin for them. Upon regaining control of her memories, she took on the codename Spider-Woman and sought to make up for her past sins as a superhero. Though she would work professionally as both a private investigator and bounty hunter, her most famous job title would be that of an Avenger.

As one of the heroines responsible for ushering in the wave of female-led titles in the late-1970s, Spider-Woman's self-titled series became one of the longest-running comics starring a woman published by Marvel. Though she would spend years in publication limbo, she was later brought back into the fold by Brian Michael Bendis as a member of the Avengers. With a snazzy new costume and her first ongoing series in years, Spider-Woman's stock couldn't be higher.

05. Captain Marvel

REAL NAME: Carol Danvers

FIRST APPEARANCE: Marvel Super-Heroes Vol. 1 #3 (1968)

SPECIAL ABILITIES: Superhuman Strength, Speed, Stamina and Durability, Flight, Energy Absorption and Projection

While working for NASA, Carol Danvers was caught in an explosion that turned her into an alien-human hybrid. With a bevy of superpowers at her disposal, she became the costumed heroine known as Ms. Marvel. After fighting solo for several years, Carol became a key member of the Avengers and even joined the X-Men for a time. Now going by the codename Captain Marvel, Carol continues to pursue her goal of being the best superhero in the universe.

As one of Marvel's very first attempts at making a female counterpart to a well known hero à la Supergirl, Carol Danvers' popularity as Ms. Marvel exceeded that of her predecessor. Her original series posited her as Marvel's premiere feminist heroine, thus establishing her as the company's potential equivalent to DC Comics' Wonder Woman. She's been a favourite in video games and has appeared in adaptations such as The Super Hero Squad Show and Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes. She also holds the distinction of being the very first heroine to headline her own Marvel Studios film, with her movie tentatively scheduled for a 2018 release.

04. Black Cat

REAL NAME: Felicia Hardy

FIRST APPEARANCE: The Amazing Spider-Man Vol. 1 #194 (1979)

SPECIAL ABILITIES: Probability Manipulation, Expert Martial Artist, Master Thief

Following in the footsteps of her father, platinum-haired Felicia Hardy became the master thief known as Black Cat to break her father out of prison. An occasional thorn in Spider-Man's side, she found the web-slinger irresistible and maintained a flirtatious relationship with him despite her criminal pursuits. Black Cat would eventually give up her wayward ways, thus becoming Spider-Man's ally and part-time lover.

Often inaccurately cited as Marvel's answer to Catwoman, Black Cat was actually originally created as a nemesis for Spider-Woman but debuted as a Spider-Man antagonist instead. As one of Spider-Man's most famous enemies and allies, Black Cat's legacy has spanned over three decades' worth of comic appearances. Her roles in cartoons such as Spider-Man: The Animated Series and The Spectacular Spider-Man have further helped to make her a fan-favourite.

03. Black Widow

REAL NAME: Natalia Romanova

FIRST APPEARANCE: Tales of Suspense Vol. 1 #52 (1964)

SPECIAL ABILITIES: Expert Martial Artist and Marksman

Natalia Romanova was recruited into a special project developed by the KGB when she was still a child. She was trained in deception, martial arts and was brainwashed into becoming a spy for the Russian government. Under the moniker of Black Widow, she faced off against heroes like Iron Man and Spider-Man while forging a partnership with then-villain Hawkeye. Since then Natalia has switched sides and has gone on to become one of S.H.I.E.L.D.'s top agents, as well as one of the most recognizable members of the Avengers.

Originally debuting as a villain, Black Widow successfully made the transition to hero following her tenure as Daredevil's partner in his self-titled ongoing series. She would go on to become a member of the Avengers, a team which she would lead for a short time during the 1990s, and would even headline several books of her own. Despite this, she operated on the fringes of the Marvel Universe and never quite found a following until she appeared in the movie Iron Man 2. Her subsequent roles in The Avengers and Captain America: The Winter Soldier have cemented her place on the A-list, making her Marvel's premiere filmic heroine.

02. Invisible Woman

REAL NAME: Susan Storm-Richards

FIRST APPEARANCE: Fantastic Four Vol. 1 #1 (1961)

SPECIAL ABILITIES: Invisibility, Force Field Generation

When Reed Richards and his best friend Ben Grimm planned a trip into space, his girlfriend Susan Storm and her brother Johnny tagged along with them. This mission into the stars would forever change their lives, as they would be bombarded by cosmic rays that transformed them into the superheroes known as the Fantastic Four. Originally adopting the codename Invisible Girl, Susan would use her abilities to battle despotic sorcerers, alien invaders and subterranean monsters. Since then, she's honed her abilities to become one of the most powerful heroes in the universe.

As Marvel's First Lady, Invisible Woman was the first ever female superhero created during Marvel's Silver Age. Often cited as the glue that holds the group together, this legendary heroine has braved countless missions as a member of the Fantastic Four and weathered unimaginable setbacks in her personal life. She is a survivor and a proud mama bear that will do whatever it takes to protect her family. On top of that, she has appeared in all four of the Fantastic Four's television adaptations and was featured in the big screen adaptation Fantastic Four, as well as its sequel Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer. While the reception of these adaptations have varied over the years, Invisible Woman's status as an icon has not.

01. She-Hulk

REAL NAME: Jennifer Walters

FIRST APPEARANCE: Savage She-Hulk Vol. 1 #1 (1980)

SPECIAL ABILITIES: Superhuman Strength, Speed, Agility, Stamina and Durability, Enhanced Healing Factor

After being shot by enemies of her father, criminal defence lawyer Jennifer Walters received a blood transfusion from her cousin Bruce Banner in order to save her life. Unbeknownst to Jennifer, her cousin was the Hulk and his irradiated blood resulted into her transformation into the green-skinned Amazon known as She-Hulk. Unlike her famous cousin, She-Hulk embraced her newfound abilities. She would go on to become a member of the Avengers and temporarily served as the Thing's replacement on the Fantastic Four.

Much like Spider-Woman before her, She-Hulk was created by Marvel to maintain a copyright over a female version of an existing male hero. As a solo heroine, She-Hulk holds the unique distinction of having two of the longest-running female-led ongoing series at Marvel. Her lengthy memberships with the Avengers and the Fantastic Four have also helped to establish her as an icon. This fan-favourite is beloved for her humorous qualities, with her ability to break the fourth wall and apparent inability to make any of her comics last becoming recurring jokes for the Jade Giantess. While she may not be as much of a household name as some of the other women on this list, she has a devoted fanbase and a legacy that proves she deserves to be number one.

X-Men 101: The Essential Rogue Stories

As one of the most iconic members of the X-Men, Rogue is recognized for her skunk-like hair and ability to absorb the powers of anyone through skin contact. While she originally made her debut as a villain, there's no denying that the Southern beauty is most beloved for her turn as a do-gooder. Whether she's dating teammate Gambit or canoodling with X-baddie Magneto, her love life is equally as fascinating for audiences.

The following list explores the twenty must-read Rogue stories from the comics. This entry is an ideal starting place for new readers to the genre or even long-time readers looking to catch-up on their favourite heroine.

Avengers Annual (Vol. 1) #10

When Mystique and her Brotherhood of Mutants set their sights on destroying the Avengers, Mystique's adoptive daughter Rogue strikes out on her own to kill Carol Danvers, the heroine formerly known as Ms. Marvel. Rogue's assault on Carol Danvers proves to be too much for the skunk-haired terrorist, thus accidentally absorbing the heroine's powers and memories permanently.

This annual serves as Rogue's debut appearance and establishes her as one of the most dangerous villains in the Marvel Universe.

A Rogue in the House

Dazzler (Vol. 1) #22-24, 28

After a humiliating defeat at the hands of Dazzler, Rogue develops a deep-rooted hatred for the mutant songstress. She makes it her mission to destroy Dazzler's life, coming after her family and bodyguards. Ultimately, Rogue is thoroughly trounced by Dazzler in an epic battle on an airstrip.

Scarlet in Glory

Uncanny X-Men (Vol. 1) #171-173

Driven to the brink of insanity due to the memories she's absorbed, Rogue seeks out the help of Professor Xavier to aid in silencing the voices in her head. Despite the protests of the X-Men, Rogue is inducted into the team of mutants on a probationary period.

On her first mission with the group, Rogue travels to Japan where she teams up with Wolverine after he is targeted by the villainous Silver Samurai and Viper. When Rogue sacrifices her wellbeing for Wolverine, she proves herself worthy of the X-Men's trust and begins her slow journey to redemption.

Welcome to Genosha

Uncanny X-Men (Vol. 1) #235-238

Upon learning of the mutant conflicts in Genosha, the X-Men head to the island nation to investigate. When Rogue and Wolverine are captured, their mutant abilities are negated and they are thrown into a cell. Without her powers to protect her, Rogue is physically assaulted by the guards and retreats into herself. In the recesses of her mind, Rogue encounters the psyche of Carol Danvers and she allows the former Avenger to take control of her body in order to break out of their cell. Carol successfully escapes and frees Wolverine, thus re-joining the X-Men and fleeing Genosha.

The Light That Failed

Uncanny X-Men (Vol. 1) #246-247

When the futuristic Sentinel Nimrod merges with the deadly Master Mold, the X-Men must find a way to defeat the apparently unbeatable robot. The group open the mystical portal known as the Siege Perilous, with Rogue using her super strength to punch Master Mold through the gateway. Before being pulled away by the Siege Perilous, Master Mold grabs hold of Rogue and takes her through the portal with him. 

Rogue Redux

Uncanny X-Men (Vol. 1) #269, 274-275

After being transported through the Siege Perilous, Rogue re-awakens in the X-Men's Australian headquarters several months later. She discovers that the X-Men have left and that their base is now overrun by the villains known as the Reavers. She flees, using the powers of a teleporter to take herself to the Savage Land.

In this tropical paradise, Rogue is attacked by the freed consciousness of Ms. Marvel. It is revealed that the Siege Perilous had separated the psyches of the two women, but the process left their bodies unstable. For one to survive, the other had to die. Unable to fully protect herself due to the apparent loss of her Ms. Marvel powers, Rogue is nearly killed in battle. Luckily, Magneto finds her and saves her from the enraged Ms. Marvel. He kills the Ms. Marvel duplicate, enabling Rogue to re-absorb her powers.

To show her gratitude, Rogue agrees to stay in the Savage Land with Magneto and enjoys a brief love affair with the silver-haired villain.

Mutant Genesis

X-Men (Vol. 2) #1-4

Following the dissolution of her relationship with Magneto, Rogue returns to the X-Men where she meets the enigmatic thief known as Gambit. After rebuffing Gambit's advances, Rogue finally gives in and begins dating the charming mutant.

Meanwhile, Rogue is on hand to battle her ex Magneto as he and his Acolytes invade the nation of Genosha.

Digging Deeper Between Hope and Sorrow

X-Men (Vol. 2) #24

After recovering from an injury sustained in battle, Rogue goes out with Gambit on a romantic date to New York City. She finds herself growing closer to him, so much so that she offers to tell him her real name.

The Last Goodbye

Rogue (Vol. 1) #1-4

During a visit to the bedside of her childhood sweetheart Cody, Rogue makes the shocking discovery that he has been kidnapped by Gambit's ex-wife Bella Donna and her Assassin's Guild. With Gambit's help, Rogue tracks down Bella Donna and defeats her in battle. Tragically, Cody dies before he can be returned to the hospital.

Into the Void

Uncanny X-Men (Vol. 1) #341-350

With the Shi'Ar in danger of extinction at the hands of the Phalanx, the X-Men are transported into space to aid in stopping the Phalanx. During this time, Rogue acts as a de facto leader for the team and successfully manages to prevent the Phalanx from taking over the Shi'Ar Empire.

On their way back from space, the X-Men are kidnapped and imprisoned by Erik the Red. With inhibitor collars blocking their powers, Rogue and Gambit consummate their relationship for the first time. The following day, Gambit is put on trial for his past crimes and Rogue finally learns of his involvement in a massacre of an entire group of mutants. Feeling betrayed and angry, Rogue abandons Gambit in the Antarctic where she leaves him for dead.

Power Play

Uncanny X-Men (Vol. 1) #359

Striking out on her own, Rogue searches for a cure to her mutant abilities. She successfully finds a man who has invented a machine that will strip her of her powers. Upon realizing that the machine could be used to forcefully take away the abilities of other mutants, Rogue makes the difficult decision to pass up her opportunity for a cure and destroys the machine instead.

The Return of Gambit

Uncanny X-Men (Vol. 1) #361, X-Men (Vol. 2) #81

Having returned to the X-Men, Rogue is consumed by guilt over leaving Gambit in the Antarctic. She leaves the team briefly to search for him, but in her absence the X-Men stumble across Gambit in Japan.  Reunited with her former lover, Rogue finds herself pushing for reconciliation despite Gambit's hesitations. Ultimately, the pair decide to take a break.

Going Rogue

Rogue (Vol. 3) #1-6

After a mission to her hometown, Rogue stays behind to visit her family home. She learns that her father has left and that her mother has disappeared. She also encounters evil spirits that are haunting a young girl who looks just like her. Rogue enlists the aid of Gambit and a stranger named Campbell St. Ange to solve the mystery of her mother's disappearance and why this young girl looks like a dead-ringer for Rogue.

Forget-Me-Not

Rogue (Vol. 3) #7-12

When Rogue is attacked by the cyborg warrior known as Lady Deathstrike, she heads to Japan for answers. After teaming up with Sunfire, she and the Japanese hero are brutally assaulted and captured. They are ultimately locked up with one of Rogue's former associates -- Blindspot. The thing is, Rogue had no memory of ever having worked with Blindspot. As it turns out, Blindspot is a memory thief who restores Rogue's memories and she reveals their former association as part of Mystique's Brotherhood of Mutants.

As Blindspot and Rogue plot their escape, Sunfire begins to succumb to the injuries he sustained in the battle against Deathstrike. Blindspot forces Rogue to absorb Sunfire's powers so they can escape, which ultimately leads to Rogue taking on Sunfire's abilities permanently.

Bizarre Love Triangle

X-Men (Vol. 2) #171-174

With Rogue and Gambit's relationship on the skids, the pair begin to see Emma Frost for couples therapy. At this time, Mystique disguises herself as a student at the Xavier Institute and begins pursuing Gambit in an attempt to get the Cajun to cheat on Rogue. The plan backfires, leading to the discovery of Mystique's identity and she is subsequently taken in by the X-Men.

Supernovas

X-Men (Vol. 2) #188-199

After much discussion, Cyclops grants Rogue leadership status and allows her to create a field team of her own. She recruits Iceman, Cannonball and Cable, as well as Mystique and Sabretooth to aid her in a mission to stop the unstoppable Children of the Vault. 

Rogue is also kidnapped by the villainous scientist Pandemic to study her absorption abilities and subsequently injects her with a deadly virus known as Strain 88. Even though the X-Men manage to rescue Rogue, they are unable to cure her and Rogue's health takes a seemingly permanent turn for the worse.

Blinded by the Light

X-Men (Vol. 2) #200-204

When Mystique betrays the X-Men, she joins the Marauders in attacking the mutant heroes and leaves them to die after an explosion. However, she successfully extracts Rogue before this can happen and keeps her close in hopes of finding a cure for Strain 88. Meanwhile, Iceman and Cannonball work tirelessly to find their kidnapped leader.

Salvage

X-Men: Legacy (Vol. 1) #220-224

After the events of Messiah CompleX, Rogue was cured of her infection and of the memories she had absorbed throughout the years. In the aftermath, she left the X-Men and ventured to the Australian Outback where she's been attempting to gain control of her powers permanently. During this journey to self-discovery, Rogue finally learns to control her abilities and comes to terms with her past.

Utopia

X-Men: Legacy (Vol. 1) #226-233

With her newfound sense of confidence and control of self, Rogue returns once more to the X-Men only to discover that they have moved to an island off the coast of San Francisco. At this time, Cyclops bars Rogue from field duty after her botched leadership of the X-Men prior to Messiah CompleX. However, he assigns her as a guidance counsellor for the next generation of mutants and Rogue finds herself relishing in this new role.

Rogue also finds herself rekindling her romance with Magneto after he takes up residence with the X-Men.

Red Shadow

Uncanny Avengers (Vol. 1) #1-5

Following the civil war between the Avengers and the X-Men, Captain America organizes a squad of Avengers and X-Men to deal with the tensions surrounding human-mutant interactions. Rogue is recruited into this new team, where she finds herself instantly at odds with Scarlet Witch. The villainous Red Skull uses this to his advantage and pits the two mutants against one another. Amidst a rather nasty spat, Rogue falls through a hole created by Scarlet Witch and discovers Charles Xavier's mutilated body. She and Scarlet Witch set aside their differences upon realizing that the Red Skull has taken Xavier's brain. Together with the other Avengers, Rogue and Scarlet Witch battle the Red Skull, only to have him escape at the last second.