X-Men #104

Published in April 1977, X-Men #104 represents a pivotal moment in the 'All-New, All-Different' era of the franchise. Written by Chris Claremont and illustrated by Dave Cockrum, the issue continues the team's space-faring adventures, featuring a high-stakes confrontation with the Starjammers and the Shi'ar Empire. This story arc was instrumental in establishing the cosmic scope of the X-Men mythos, setting the stage for the dramatic arcs that would define the series for years to come.

Dave Cockrum’s design work during this period is celebrated for its dynamic flair and the introduction of enduring character aesthetics. His visual direction helped modernize the team after their mid-1970s revival, balancing grounded human emotion with the exotic, colorful visuals required for intergalactic narratives. Upon its release, the issue was well-received by readers as part of the creative synergy between Claremont and Cockrum, which successfully solidified the popularity of the rebooted X-Men lineup.