Strikeforce: Morituri #13

Strikeforce: Morituri #13, published by Marvel Comics in 1987, occupies a unique space in the history of mid-1980s superhero fiction. Conceived by Peter B. Gillis and illustrated by Brent Anderson, the series explores a grim premise where humanity gains superpowers to defend against an alien invasion, but at the cost of a terminal, accelerated cellular breakdown. This issue serves as part of the series' ongoing meditation on the morality of sacrifice and the existential dread inherent in being both a savior and a dying person.

The creative direction for the issue sought to balance the high-octane action expected of a Marvel comic with a deeply somber, character-driven tone. Brent Anderson’s art was instrumental in this, utilizing a gritty, grounded visual style that emphasized the psychological weight of the protagonists. At the time of its release, the series was noted for its unconventional narrative structure and its willingness to kill off central cast members, a move that garnered critical attention for breaking the traditional comic book trope of invulnerability.