‘Alien vs. Captain America’ #1 Review: A Xenomorphic, Historical Tale

When it was announced at San Diego Comic-Con 2025, surely everyone was perhaps slightly perplexed, yet interested, at the idea of Alien crossing over with Captain America. But now that the issue is here, it’s safe to say there is a clear vision being followed that excellently blends the two iconic figures together seamlessly. There’s plenty to like in this first issue that shows promise of an intriguing and well-executed crossover series.

As Cap and Bucky ponder whatever scheme Strucker is up to, we get treated to a storyline following Strucker and his crew in the Himalayas. Quickly, their malintent is apparent when they kill and threaten citizens to find the city of Attilan. A guide takes them, and from there, the story excels with a mood of mystery, lore, and discovery. The Xenomorphs are well-incorporated into the Marvel lore, and the reveal of the eggs is haunting. Of course, Strucker immediately relishes that he will get to use the deadly creature for Hydra’s advantage in the war against Cap.

For a first issue, it wastes no time. By its conclusion, the Alien army is already forming and have left their mark of demise on an unsuspecting village. Cap makes it clear to Fury that they have an unprecedented threat on their hands, a “War of the Worlds,” even, and the cliff hangs.

The art and colors from Stefano Raffaele and Neeraj Menon respectfully, is on point. Super gritty and ‘historic’ (perhaps strange adjective to attribute here, but it gives off the mood of World War II). The dark color palettes and shading are used really well. There are some particular panels that really jump out as stunners. Frank Tieri’s dialogue is sharp and interesting to follow. The direction and setup of the story so far is very promising, and as someone who does not have tons of experience with Alien nor Cap, it leaves me excitedly curious for what is to come.

Alien vs. Captain America #1 is off to a great start that utilizes the two properties it crosses over very well. With gritty art and clever lore-building, a brutal, exciting, and charmingly mysterious clash is certainly upon us.

Check out all the variant covers from Dan Panosian, Phil Noto, and In-Hyuk Lee!