The X-Men #90

Published in March 1975, The X-Men #90 serves as a bridge in the franchise’s history during a period of transition. At this time, Marvel Comics was finalizing the shift toward the 'All-New, All-Different' era following the introduction of the new international team in Giant-Size X-Men #1. This issue features the original lineup—Cyclops, Marvel Girl, Angel, Beast, and Iceman—as the publisher worked to wrap up reprint-heavy cycles while preparing readers for the influx of new creative talent and characters that would soon redefine the title.

The issue was written by Gerry Conway with pencils by Dave Cockrum, an artist whose work was instrumental in the mid-seventies revitalization of the X-Men. Cockrum’s design sensibilities focused on bringing a more modern, dynamic aesthetic to the page, departing from the classic Silver Age style to better suit the changing tone of comic book storytelling. While historical analysis often highlights the surrounding issues that featured the team's relaunch, number 90 remains a snapshot of the creative efforts to maintain narrative momentum during a pivotal editorial pivot for Marvel.