Marvel Comics is diving back into the distant past with a new series starring an ancient team of Avengers. Titled Marvel Legacy, the series will focus on a group of characters whose histories have been critical in shaping the Marvel comics we know today.

Taking place in 1,000,000 B.C., Marvel Legacy will unite ancient versions of Black Panther, Phoenix, Ghost Rider, and Star Brand, along with established characters Odin and Agamotto. The first issue, written by Jason Aaron (The Mighty Thor) and illustrated by Esad Ribic (Secret Wars), is a 50-page story that will give readers a deep look at the Marvel Universe and show how it's "all connected."

Described as a story that's much more than just a history lesson, Marvel Legacy is said to be filled with mysteries and secrets that will have a tremendous impact on the Marvel Universe.

Senior Vice President of Publishing Tom Brevoort says Marvel Legacy is a game-changing event that will affect all Marvel characters. Most Marvel heroes are expected to appear, along with another mysterious iconic hero who will return in a shocking reveal. Fans are already speculating about the identity of this returning character.

According to Marvel Editor in Chief Axel Alonso, Marvel Legacy is the "very best jumping on point in the history of comics" for new readers.

“What Jason and Esad have crafted is more grand and more gargantuan than anything we have ever seen before and introduces concepts and characters the Marvel Universe has never encountered. Fans are going to witness an all-new look at the Marvel Universe starting at one of the earliest moments in time carried all the way into present day. Not only will this be the catalyst for Marvel evolving and moving forward, but expect it to be the spark that will ignite the industry as a whole.”

Though the idea of an old Avengers team sounds like a unique concept to explore, Marvel has done it before, only on a much smaller scale. One example of this is Avengers 1959, a miniseries about a team of heroes assembled by Nick Fury. Despite the similar concept, Marvel Legacy is taking the idea to a whole new level, one that could present tons of opportunities for great storytelling, possibly providing a platform that could end up shaping the next generation of Marvel comics.

Going back to ancient times, Marvel will have a chance to put the spotlight on even more characters. Fans could possibly see ancient characters like Ulysses Bloodstone, Zeus, or the Eternals.

While the current Secret Empire book has taken some controversial turns with many characters, the artwork released with the announcement curiously depicts Captain America, Iron Man, and Thor back in their familiar roles, which should be reassuring to many longtime fans.

Marvel Legacy #1 will hit comic book shelves in September.

Source: Marvel