Ghost Rider/Wolverine/Punisher: Hearts of Darkness # 1 (December 1991) is a prestige format one-shot that unites three of Marvel's most popular anti-heroes of the era against the demonic entity Blackheart, the son of Mephisto. Written by Howard Mackie with art by John Romita Jr. and Klaus Janson, the story explores themes of vengeance and morality.
The three heroes—Danny Ketch (Ghost Rider), Logan (Wolverine), and Frank Castle (Punisher)—are lured to the small midwestern town of Christ's Crown by Blackheart. Posing as a mysterious figure, Blackheart sends them notes promising answers to their deepest questions (e.g., the secret of Wolverine's adamantium skeleton, the nature of the Ghost Rider's power).
- The Proposition: Blackheart appears to the heroes and offers them a deal: kill his father, Mephisto (the ruler of the dimension of Hell), in exchange for their heart's desires.
- The Refusal: All three vigilantes reject the offer, unwilling to become mere assassins for a demon.
- The Hostage: In response, Blackheart kidnaps Lucy, the innocent young daughter of the boarding house owner where the heroes are staying, to force their hand.
- The Confrontation: The heroes track Blackheart into a demonic realm (accessed via a thorn-covered hill) where they battle his minions and severely injure Blackheart.
- Mephisto's Intervention: Just as Blackheart is about to kill Lucy, Mephisto appears, swallows his son whole as punishment for his failure, and returns the heroes and the girl to Earth.
- Anti-Hero Morality: The comic is famous for examining the "gray areas" of its protagonists' morality. Blackheart believes the trio are close enough to the "edge" to be easily corrupted, but their ultimate refusal to sacrifice an innocent girl for personal gain proves him wrong.
- First Team-Up: This issue marks the first time these three highly popular characters appeared in a single comic book together, capitalizing on the popularity of "gritty" anti-heroes in the early 1990s.
- Art and Format: The one-shot was released in a premium "prestige format" with a unique, full-color wraparound cover by John Romita Jr. and Klaus Janson.