X-Treme X-Men #40

X-Treme X-Men #40, released in 2004, serves as the final issue of the original series written by Chris Claremont. Conceived as a spin-off that allowed Claremont to explore a more globe-trotting, high-stakes narrative for the X-Men removed from the traditional school setting, the series leaned heavily into the tactical and internal dynamics of its team. This concluding issue provided a sense of closure to the long-running arcs established since the title's launch in 2001.

The interior art for this final installment was provided by Igor Kordey, whose distinct, gritty style was a hallmark of the title's later stages. By the time this issue was published, the series had evolved significantly from its initial launch, reflecting the shifting editorial mandates of the X-Men line during the early 2000s. While opinions on the series' varied visual direction were mixed among the fanbase, the issue is noted by collectors for finalizing the loose ends of Claremont’s specific vision for this iteration of the mutant team.