What If...? X-Men #1

What If...? X-Men #1 was published by Marvel Comics in 2006 as part of a series that revisited iconic mutant storylines through alternate-reality lenses. This particular issue explores the premise of what might have occurred if the original X-Men had been killed during their first mission against Krakoa, forcing Professor X to recruit a completely different team of mutants to stop the living island. The project served to celebrate the legacy of the X-Men while providing a narrative playground for writers and artists to deconstruct established canon.

The issue was written by Jeff Parker with interior art by Pascal Alixe. Parker, known for his ability to handle ensemble casts with a blend of humor and grounded character stakes, aimed to balance the dark tone of a 'failed' mission with the potential of a new, unexpected roster. The design and visual execution were received by readers as a respectful nod to the classic Claremont-era X-Men aesthetic while utilizing a modernized, clean style that characterized Marvel's mid-2000s output, earning praise for its tight plotting and clever integration of forgotten characters.