X-Factor #-1

X-Factor #-1 was released by Marvel Comics in July 1997 as part of a company-wide initiative where many ongoing series published a special 'minus one' issue. These issues were designed to act as prequels, delving into the origins of established characters or exploring events that occurred prior to their first appearances. This specific issue serves to provide additional context to the history of the original X-Factor team, focusing on the formative moments of its members before the series launched in 1986.

The issue was written by Howard Mackie with interior art by Jeff Matsuda. The creative team aimed to bridge gaps in the team's continuity, offering a narrative that felt both nostalgic and additive to the established lore of the mutant characters. Published during a period where Marvel was experimenting with non-linear storytelling and retrospective storytelling devices, the issue was received as a standard supplemental piece for fans of the X-Men franchise who were interested in character background and historical continuity.