Warning: Spoilers for Daredevil #20! Marvel has recently made waves by altering Daredevil’s iconic costume, though the publisher has indicated that this change may be short-lived. The previous installment of Daredevil wrapped up an extensive two-year narrative arc featuring Matt Murdock battling the Seven Deadly Sins. This thrilling conclusion saw the downfall of Bullseye and signified the dawn of a new chapter for Daredevil.
Return of Daredevil’s Black Armor
In Daredevil #20, crafted by writer Saladin Ahmed and artist Jose Luis, the beloved black armor makes a comeback. This ensemble, which enjoyed prominence throughout the 1990s, initially designed by Chichester and illustrated by Scott McDaniel, was a staple during a time when comic book aesthetics leaned toward the edgy. While many fans fondly remember this suit, it has not been without its critics.
Despite its nostalgic allure, Daredevil’s black armor continues to evoke mixed reactions among fans, which may lead Marvel to reconsider its position sooner rather than later.
A Nod to the Past, But Only Temporarily
Following an intense battle with the Seventh Deadly Sin of Wrath, Daredevil finds his traditional suit in tatters, compelling him to don the black suit while awaiting repairs on his iconic red costume. However, soon after making this switch, he is unexpectedly captured by individuals clad in hazmat suits during a moment of vulnerability as Matt Murdock. These captors, noting the unusual weight of his outfit, mistakenly assume he is merely a “freak”in bondage gear rather than connecting it back to his superhero identity.
Uncertainty About the Future of Daredevil’s ’90s Armor
While some readers might regard Daredevil’s black armor as a makeshift solution, there’s a strong potential for its retirement to occur sooner than anticipated, especially considering Marvel’s willingness to swiftly move on from it.
Will Daredevil’s ’90s Armor Resurface in “Born Again?”
The ’90s costume symbolizes a defining era marked by an increased level of grit within the comic book landscape—something that might seem outdated by contemporary standards. This outdated aesthetic raises questions about its relevance in current comic narratives and within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The lack of any appearances of the suit in the MCU suggests that it may not be making a comeback anytime soon.
Daredevil #20 is currently available from Marvel Comics.