An Alternate Universe is a plot device to create "what if" scenarios. They are also used to narrate other sides of character that may not be possible in the main story arc. Alternate Universes should not be confused with Parallel Universe, however they are similar.

In an Alternate Universe generally is very short and is either created to show a 'what if' scenario. The Marvel What If? volumes as well as the Marvel Zombies are a good example of this. The comics describing the alternate universes are usually short, and after they are narrated, they disappear.

A Parallel Universe is more of a static. An example of this may be an 'opposite' universe, in which the good guys are the bad guys, and the bad guys the good guys. Parallel Universes may be described in mini-arcs, or they may only exist in another Alternate Universe.

Examples

What If?

Marvel Zombies