Fantastic Four #197

Fantastic Four #197 was published by Marvel Comics in August 1978. It was released during a transitional period for the title as the creative team worked to balance the classic foundations established by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby with the evolving storytelling sensibilities of the late 1970s. The issue features the work of writer Marv Wolfman and artist Keith Pollard, who were tasked with maintaining the momentum of the series following several high-profile shifts in the creative staff.

The cover and interior art by Keith Pollard reflect the bold, illustrative style characteristic of Marvel in the late seventies. Pollard, known for his clean lines and dynamic character poses, was a primary architect of the Fantastic Four’s visual identity during this era. The issue focuses on the team's ongoing struggles and interpersonal dynamics, a central pillar of the series' longevity. While it is often viewed as a standard mid-run entry, it serves as a testament to the consistency and collaborative nature of Marvel’s editorial process during that decade.