Thomas Storai 
“X-Men ’97 makes a strong return. The first four episodes of Season 2 are action-packed and fast-paced.” Read our review here.
After making a triumphant return in 2024, the revival of the X-Men animated series is finally returning for its second season. X-Men ’97 premieres on July 1st on Disney +.
STORY
Season 2 has the mutant team of X-Men divided across different eras in time – the past, the present, and the future. Each episode focuses on a specific group of characters in the era they’re in. These new episodes definitely act as The Empire Strikes Back of the X-Men series. Indeed, it has the heroes separated from each other and having to work to get back together while facing their own challenges. The tone is also darker, not that season 1 didn’t get into that area with some tragic and shocking events. We all still haven’t forgotten what happened in Genosha. The characters haven’t forgotten either. But killing off an important character was a bold move that proved the series didn’t play it safe. The creative team’s willingness to take risks paid off.
Because of these risks taken in the first season, when a character is in danger, the audience is now on the edge of its seat. You don’t know what can happen, so you are afraid your favorite character might be the next to join the dead. It creates more tension. Undoubtedly, it’s something you don’t often get with superhero stories. And this considerably raises the stakes. Even more so when the story involves Apocalypse, the X-Men’s most dangerous foe, in two different times. Seeing two different versions of him also allows us to explore this character in different ways.
Additionally, setting the beginning of the season across three separate eras gives the narrative the flexibility to develop each group of characters more thoroughly and equally. No matter who’s your favourite character, you will be satisfied. Each character has their time to shine. In fact, Jubilee has one of the coolest fight sequences of the entire series. Everyone will be talking about it!
The first four episodes are action-packed with a fast pace. It will keep the audience entertained from start to finish. This season delivers on all sides – action, emotion, high stakes, and big surprises too. X-Men ’97 has a lot in store for its second season, and you clearly don’t know where this is going.
VISUALS & SOUNDTRACK
Yes, the iconic intro with the X-Men theme is back. Obviously, because it is a new season, it has been updated to feature the key characters. This intro is an integral part of this series and immediately puts the audience in the right mood. The theme itself is a classic one that immediately triggers ’90s nostalgia. The Newton Brothers continue to deliver a good soundtrack that is in line with the original series. Finally, Marvel Studios Animation continues to impress with its work. The animation feels like classic retro American animation with vibrant colors and a strong comic book feel.
VERDICT
X-Men ’97 makes a strong return. The first four episodes of Season 2 are action-packed and fast-paced. Divided across three different eras in time, the story keeps the stakes high and will keep you entertained from start to finish with some major surprises. You never really know where it’s going.
X-Men ’97 season 2 premieres on July 1st on Disney +.
Collectables and Anime Editor for Future Of The Force.
Star Wars expert and Japan connoisseur.
