Warning! Spoilers for Punisher #1 by Marvel Comics
In a stunning piece of Marvel Comics art from Peach Momoko, the Punisher trades in his guns for swords, as his new costume and logo are showcased in the recently revealed cover art. With the Punisher being taken in a new direction by Marvel Comics, the cover art shows how the hero will operate while working alongside the Hand. It seems despite his new look and weapons, the antihero won't be holding back against those who stand in his way.
Marvel Comics is actively reworking the Punisher after real-life events forced the publisher to try something new with the antihero. Unfortunately, the Punisher's logo has been co-opted by the likes of white nationalists and hate groups and was prominently seen during the January 6th attacks on the U.S. Capitol. With the logo becoming a symbol of hate, Marvel Comics shelved the Punisher while figuring out where to take the character next. Ultimately, Marvel decided the Punisher will be getting a soft reboot in a new series from Jason Aaron, Jesus Saiz, Paul Azaceta, and Dave Stewart. The Punisher's skull logo will be replaced as he joins the Hand.
This week, Peach Momoko's art for the upcoming Punisher series was revealed. The variant cover will appear on the first issue of the 13-part prestige limited series by Marvel Comics. The cover (exclusive to Big Time Collectibles) features the Punisher in his new armored costume, with his new Oni logo visible on his chest. In addition, Frank Castle trades his guns for swords, as he duel-wields the blades as he strikes a menacing pose.
The Punisher will be undergoing dramatic changes in the issue, as the antihero will ditch his usual skull logo while working alongside the Hand - serving their demonic leader, the Beast. Trading his usual firepower for swords as he fights alongside the ninjas is a bold path to take Frank Castle.
The change in logo and costume might seem unusual as the Punisher's skull symbol is one of the most iconic in comics. However, given the number of real-life bad actors who have made the logo represent hatred and division, Marvel's hands were tied with how to proceed with the character. That's not to say his logo will be gone forever, but for now, Frank Castle needs to be taken in a new direction. Peach Momoko's unique style makes the antihero's new costume look great in the new cover art. Punisher #1 by Marvel Comics arrives in comic book shops in March.