The X-Men #99

The X-Men #99, published in 1976, arrived during a transformative era for the title. Following the 1975 revitalization of the series in Giant-Size X-Men #1, the creative team of writer Chris Claremont and artist Dave Cockrum were tasked with grounding the new international team of mutants. This specific issue features the team battling the Sentinels, reflecting the recurring themes of prejudice and technological existentialism that would become the cornerstone of Claremont's long-running tenure on the book.

Dave Cockrum's design work on this issue contributed to the definitive visual identity of the 'All-New, All-Different' era. His kinetic, stylized approach to character movement and costume design helped move the X-Men away from their 1960s aesthetic toward a more dynamic, pulp-inspired look. At the time of its release, the title was steadily building its reputation as a fan-favorite, eventually paving the way for the massive commercial success the franchise would experience throughout the 1980s.