The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) took a bold step into the realm of speculative storytelling with “What If…?,” an animated anthology series that explored alternate realities within the multiverse. Season 1’s interconnected episodes captivated audiences with imaginative narratives, reimagining iconic characters and pivotal events. As anticipation builds for the next season, it’s worth revisiting the events of Season 1, where the Watcher, a celestial observer bound by a vow of non-interference, narrated and occasionally influenced the unfolding chaos.
Episode 1: Captain Carter’s Heroic Ascendancy
The season premiered with a World War II-era twist. Steve Rogers, originally chosen to become the first super-soldier, was injured by a Hydra spy, forcing Peggy Carter to take the serum instead. Transforming into Captain Carter, she led missions alongside Steve, who piloted a vibranium-powered Hydra Stomper suit. Their partnership culminated in a confrontation with Red Skull, who summoned a monstrous inter-dimensional creature. Although the creature killed Red Skull, Captain Carter sacrificed herself by entering the portal, reemerging 70 years later to meet Nick Fury and Clint Barton. This episode set the tone for the series, emphasizing how a single decision could reshape history.
Episode 2: T’Challa Becomes Star-Lord
The narrative shifted to 1988, where a cosmic error saw T’Challa abducted by the Ravagers instead of Peter Quill. Growing up among spacefaring misfits, T’Challa transformed into a revered Star-Lord, renowned for his diplomacy and heroism. This episode followed the Ravagers’ quest for the Embers of Genesis, a cosmic artifact capable of ending galactic hunger. The group’s mission pitted them against the formidable Collector, culminating in themes of camaraderie, forgiveness, and familial reunion as T’Challa rediscovered Wakanda and his heritage.
Episode 3: Fury’s Big Week
Nick Fury faced a devastating crisis in “Fury’s Big Week,” where the Avengers Initiative was jeopardized by mysterious murders of potential recruits. Natasha Romanoff’s investigation led to shocking revelations about Hope van Dyne’s death, which had driven her father, Hank Pym, to a path of vengeance. Using Pym Particles, Hank eliminated heroes while disguised as Yellowjacket. Fury, aided by Loki, confronted Pym, ensuring the Initiative’s survival. The episode ended with Fury discovering Captain America’s frozen body and summoning Carol Danvers, hinting at future battles.
Episode 4: The Tragic Descent of Doctor Strange
Doctor Stephen Strange’s journey took a dark turn as grief over Christine Palmer’s death consumed him. Despite warnings from the Ancient One and Wong, Strange used the Eye of Agamotto to repeatedly attempt altering the past, only to learn her death was an absolute point in time. Driven by despair, one version of Strange absorbed mystical entities, transforming into Strange Supreme. His reckless actions unraveled his universe, leaving him isolated in a void as he pleaded futilely for the Watcher’s help. This haunting tale highlighted the perils of unchecked power and obsession.
Episode 5: Zombie Apocalypse
The fifth episode delved into horror as Hank Pym’s rescue of Janet van Dyne unleashed a quantum virus, sparking a zombie apocalypse. Survivors including Bruce Banner, Hope van Dyne, Peter Parker, and others sought refuge and a potential cure at Camp Lehigh, where Vision’s Mind Stone offered hope. However, Vision’s ulterior motive of sustaining a zombified Wanda Maximoff led to devastating losses. The episode balanced humor and tragedy, showcasing the survivors’ resilience against overwhelming odds.
Episode 6: Killmonger’s Gambit
Erik Killmonger’s calculated manipulation took center stage as he rescued Tony Stark from an ambush and gained his trust. Using Stark’s resources, Killmonger developed combat drones while orchestrating events to eliminate T’Challa, Rhodey, and Stark himself. Framing Wakanda as a threat, he ascended as the new Black Panther. However, Shuri and Pepper Potts’ suspicions set the stage for a future reckoning, as they sought to expose Killmonger’s deceit. This episode underscored themes of betrayal and ambition.
Episode 7: Party Thor
In a lighter narrative, Thor’s unchecked revelry led to chaos on Earth during Odin’s slumber. Jane Foster’s efforts to interact with Thor intertwined with Maria Hill’s call to Carol Danvers to contain the situation. As the chaos escalated, Jane alerted Frigga, prompting Thor to clean up in time for her arrival. However, the festivities were abruptly interrupted by the appearance of Ultron’s army, equipped with all six Infinity Stones, setting the stage for the season’s climactic conflict.
Episode 8: Ultron’s Ascendancy
Ultron achieved his apocalyptic vision by acquiring Vision’s vibranium body and the Infinity Stones, swiftly eliminating Thanos and decimating life across the universe. Becoming aware of the multiverse, Ultron sought to dominate all realities. The Watcher, breaking his vow of non-interference, assembled the Guardians of the Multiverse: Supreme Strange, Captain Carter, Star-Lord T’Challa, Party Thor, Killmonger, and a variant of Gamora. Together, they confronted Ultron, utilizing Gamora’s Infinity Crusher to no avail due to the uniqueness of each universe’s stones.
Episode 9: The Guardians of the Multiverse
In the season finale, the Guardians launched a desperate assault on Ultron. Natasha Romanoff’s pivotal role saw her and Captain Carter using Arnim Zola’s mind to neutralize Ultron from within. However, Killmonger’s betrayal to seize the Infinity Stones created further chaos. Supreme Strange and the Watcher contained both Killmonger and Ultron in a pocket dimension, ensuring their threat was neutralized. The Watcher returned the heroes to their respective realities, except Natasha, who was placed in a universe where the Avengers had fallen. The episode’s mid-credit scene teased Captain Carter’s reunion with Steve Rogers, encased in Hydra Stomper technology.
The Watcher’s Journey
Throughout the season, the Watcher evolved from a passive observer to an active participant. His decision to intervene underscored the weight of responsibility and the complexities of upholding his oath. The season concluded with lingering questions about the multiverse’s future and the potential for further exploration.
Reflections on Season 1
“What If…?” Season 1 masterfully combined imaginative storytelling with emotional depth, reexamining familiar characters and events through alternate lenses. From Captain Carter’s leadership to Strange Supreme’s tragic fall, each episode offered fresh perspectives on the MCU’s rich tapestry. The interconnected finale highlighted the multiverse’s vast potential while leaving viewers eager for more. As the Watcher’s journey continues, the series promises to delve deeper into the infinite possibilities of “What If…?”