John C.,

As I understand it (though haven't read it myself), this is part of the storyline from the "Civil War" that Joey Q. unleashed throughout the Marvel universe.

Funny, reading Star's post above, and I've said this before, I would have thought that Ironman, given his high-octane life-style, would have been more of the "rebel" than the all-American Captain America, and that each were ringleaders more of the opposite teams than where they ended up. (In "my" chronicles, "A Phoenix for the Masses", this is certainly true).

Hearing of all this, I don't feel so alone anymore. As much heartburn as we Jean fans may have right now about her treatment in the 616 universe (and elsewhere absolutely to be sure), I just have to believe many long-time Marvel readers are screaming bloody murder over the way THEIR favorite characters are being treated, particularly Cap and Ironman fans.

I like what Mackdaddy suggested recently. Perhaps the 616 universe needs an overall "reboot" and start over fresh. I cannot see Mr. Stark doing all these things. Yes, a flawed character (the virtue of Marvel), but heading up SHIELD and even making a buck off of registration just doesn't seem to be Tony's style. A substance abuser and tremendous womanizer, absolutely. A man having no trouble looking for and making a buck? Money's the name of his game (no vice there).

But a fascist tool, double-crossing longtime friends and colleagues?

No. The Tony Stark I became acquainted with would not do that.

Tony Stark, a man of wealth and fame was also a man of noblesse oblige, w/a heart of gold and a hero. Heroes, even flawed ones, do not willfully and consciously do such things.

The sky's the limit certainly for any Marvel character. But in the end what we have here is not the Tony Stark most of us are familiar with. Marvel is writing Tony Stark to not be Tony Stark anymore.

Poor storywriting on Marvel's part.

While the product and movie-lines are stronger than ever, it does rely on its signature storylines and character development. To quote a line from my favorite video game ( :p ) , perhaps a careful review of Marvel's options is in order.

Wow, a little comment became a soapbox. Okay, work to do...

Caveman

I'm in love with the little red-headed girl!