The Incredible Hulk #262

Published in August 1981, The Incredible Hulk #262 is a significant installment in the series' long-running history, arriving during a period when the character's narrative focused heavily on his exile and internal struggle. Written by Bill Mantlo, a prolific contributor to the Marvel Universe, the issue is notable for its exploration of the Hulk's complex psyche. The cover art, executed by Al Milgrom, captures the gritty, action-oriented aesthetic that defined much of Marvel's output in the early 1980s, emphasizing the character's physical power.

The issue is particularly remembered by collectors for its inclusion of a story featuring the Human Torch, which highlights the interconnected nature of Marvel's shared comic book universe. The creative team aimed to maintain the tension between the Hulk's isolated existence and the broader world of superheroes. Upon its release, it was received as a standard but engaging chapter in Mantlo's tenure, eventually gaining a following among fans of the character's mid-Bronze Age era who appreciate the consistency in character voice and editorial direction established during that decade.