Marvel Comics Presents # 81, published in July 1991, features Chapter Nine of the acclaimed "Weapon X" storyline by Barry Windsor-Smith, continuing Wolverine's violent escape from the secret facility where his skeleton was bonded with adamantium.
Weapon X: Chapter Nine
This issue is part of the iconic 12-chapter arc (spanning Marvel Comics Presents #72-84) that details Wolverine's definitive origin story within the Weapon X program.
- The Massacre: The chapter opens with the iconic and brutal image of Logan, in his "Weapon X" guise, standing over a pile of fallen security guards after having made "short work" of them. This powerful scene sets the tone for his feral rampage through the facility as he tests his new adamantium claws.
- On the Hunt: Logan is now actively hunting the program's scientists: the Professor, Doctor Cornelius, and Doctor Hines. The scientists lock themselves into the adamantium reactor room, hoping to be safe from their creation.
- Power Cut: The Professor attempts to contact his superiors for help, but receives no answer as Logan cuts the main power lines, plunging the area into darkness.
- A Slasher Vibe: The narrative continues to follow a slasher film format, with the scientists as the protagonists being stalked by a seemingly unstoppable killing machine (Logan/Weapon X).
As an anthology title, Marvel Comics Presents #81 also includes several shorter backup stories:
- Captain America: Part 2 of a story featuring the Wargod, written and drawn by Steve Ditko.
- Ant-Man: A story titled "The Bomb".
- Daredevil: A story titled "The Call".