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X-Factor #230 - They Keep Killing Madrox Part Two

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X-Factor fans should notice that this title has REGENESIS on the cover. How will the recent X-Men events affect the separate feel this book's been thriving on?

We've seen from the Schism and Regenesis that Havok and Polaris are back. How will Wolverine's decision to have them back on the team affect the title?

The Good

For some reason, this is an issue of X-FACTOR I've been most looking forwarding to and dreading at the same time. This is the issue where Wolverine brings Havok and Polaris back to X-Factor. The two have been out in deep space for quite a time. We saw their return in the pages of X-MEN: LEGACY and despite their long history with the team, the fact that Wolverine is deciding they should be on the team is worrisome.

But the issue is written by Peter David. While the team (and comic) has manage to avoid most of the big X-events, David is able to keep the book's charm intact. I'm not sure if it was David's idea or editorial but having Alex and Lorna back will cause some interesting friction. They aren't used to the private investigating aspect of the team. And until Madrox comes back, the question of who is suitable to lead them has been answered.

The main focus of this issue is more on the 'death' of Madrox and the recent revelation with Strong Guy. Amidst the team's arguing, the story is filled with the humor and jibes you've come to expect and love with a Peter David issue.

I'm enjoying the return of Emanuela Lupacchino's art. There's a nice crisp detailed look to the characters that are complimented by Matt Milla's colors. The series has had different artists over the years and it's so nice when a great issue is accompanied by great art. David's scripts with all the in-fighting between team members really puts Lupacchino to the test as each facial expression has to fit the dialogue perfectly to capture and convey the feeling of the argument.

The Bad

There still is a worrisome feeling. Madrox's fate is still up in the air. Havok and Polaris could change the direction of the book. If and when Madrox returns, it would be a shame for him to take the backseat to Alex. Also, it does make sense for them to return to X-Factor now that they're back on Earth. The fact that it's Wolverine that brings them along, practically holding their hands, just feels odd. Wolverine doesn't belong in this book. It feels forced despite Havok and Polaris's history but clearly Peter David will make it work.

The Verdict

Regenesis has spilled over into X-Factor's little corner of the Marvel Universe and that means some changes for the team. We know that Havok and Polaris are returning (courtesy of Wolverine personally delivering them to the X-Factor office). Their return is not the main focus of the issue as there is still plenty of fallout to deal with concerning the "death" of Madrox and the revelation of what happened to Strong Guy. You can expect the typical (and wonderful) humor that Peter David brings to the title each issue. I actually laughed out loud when reading. That isn't something that happens often when reading a comic.