In preparation for Marvel’s X-Men ’97 revival, several episodes from X-Men: The Animated Series are essential viewing to understand the new series.

Several episodes from X-Men: The Animated Series should be considered essential viewing in preparation for X-Men ’97. The Marvel animated series is a revival of the classic 1990s cartoon, recommencing the narrative the day after the season finale in 1997. As such, some important events from the original series should be considered to fully appreciate Marvel’s X-Men ’97 revival.

X-Men: The Animated Series was celebrated for its impeccable and faithful adaptations of classic X-Men stories. Many of these are told as multi-episode sagas or two-part narratives, exploring the X-Men’s complex and overarching narrative concerning mutant rights. While produced by the Marvel Cinematic Universe, X-Men ’97 is not considered a part of the MCU timeline, though it is an established facet of the MCU’s future.

“Night of the Sentinels” marked the debut of X-Men: The Animated Series, offering a captivating initiation into the mutants’ universe. It deftly introduced core themes of prejudice, acceptance, and the struggle for coexistence, revolving around the formidable Sentinels’ menace. Told from Jubilee’s viewpoint, the episode unfolds as an enthralling adventure, setting the stage for her life with the X-Men team. It served as a fitting introduction to the central characters, laying the groundwork for a series that seamlessly merged action, social commentary, and character-driven narratives, including Morph’s arc before he eventually reunited with the team by X-Men ’97​​​.

9. “Days Of Future Past” Introduced Bishop

X-Men Season 1, Episodes 11 & 12

“Days of Future Past” stands as the pinnacle episode of X-Men: The Animated Series, celebrated as the definitive rendition of the iconic tale. It intricately explores the repercussions of the X-Men’s mission through a riveting time-travel plotline. Seamlessly blending the dystopian future with the present, the episode delivers dynamic action sequences and delves into diverse character motivations. Amidst the bleakness of an uncertain future, it adeptly captures the essence of the original storyline while infusing its unique elements. The story is also notable for introducing Bishop, who will be a permanent member of the team in X-Men ’97.

8. “The Final Decision” Was A Thrilling Sentinel Story

X-Men Season 1, Episode 13

“The Final Decision” culminated in a riveting showdown as the X-Men joined forces with Magneto against a massive Sentinel army. Iconic scenes unfolded as they confronted Master Mold and the Sentinel program, showcasing their resilience and powers. Beyond the action, the episode delved into nuanced themes of coexistence, leaving a profound impact. Serving as the poignant finale to X-Men: The Animated Series‘ inaugural season, it encapsulated the series’ core themes. Seamlessly blending superhero action with social commentary​​​​​​, “The Final Decision” emerged as an essential installment, exemplifying the series’ ability to entertain while provoking thought.

7. “Till Death Do Us Part” Sets Up A Potential Villain

X-Men Season 2, Episodes 1-2

In the pivotal X-Men: The Animated Series episode, “Till Death Do Us Part,” the nefarious Mister Sinister schemes to clone Jean Grey and Cyclops, setting the stage for an anticipated X-Men ’97 narrative. Sinister’s plot to replicate the mutant couple foreshadows a potential conflict in the upcoming series, hinting at a formidable villain for X-Men ’97. As the episode unfolds, the X-Men are thrust into a high-stakes battle against Sinister’s machinations, underscoring the significance of his role in the broader X-Men universe. “Till Death Do Us Part” lays crucial groundwork for the intrigue and drama expected in X-Men ’97.

6. “Whatever It Takes” Features Morph’s Identity Battles

X-Men Season 2, Episodes 3

Morph faced a compelling journey throughout X-Men: The Animated Series. Initially presumed dead in the series premiere, “Night of the Sentinels,” Morph resurfaces under the control of Mister Sinister in “Till Death Do Us Part,” turning on the X-Men. Wrestling with a regained identity, Morph struggles with self-doubt and chooses to take time away from the team in “Whatever It Takes”, not returning until “Graduation Day” as a full-time member. The X-Men ’97 trailer hints at Morph’s continued presence, marking a triumphant return for a character whose journey resonates deeply throughout the series.

5. “The Phoenix Saga, Part V: Child Of Light” Was The Best Phoenix Adaptation

X-Men Season 3, Episode 7

In the climactic episode “The Phoenix Saga, Part V: Child Of Light,” the X-Men face off against the imposing Imperial Guard amidst Jean Grey’s transformation into the Phoenix. Serving as the apex of the iconic comic book arc, the episode delivers stunning visuals and intense confrontations. With adept animation, it encapsulates the essence of the Phoenix Saga, portraying Jean Grey’s immense power and internal struggles. The dynamic action sequences and emotional depth highlight the significance of the Phoenix’s emergence, laying the groundwork for further exploration in X-Men ’97, promising to delve deeper into Jean’s pivotal history.

4. “The Dark Phoenix, Part V: The Fate Of The Phoenix” Was An Essential Storyline

X-Men Season 3, Episode 17

“The Dark Phoenix Saga, Part V: The Fate of the Phoenix,” treated viewers to a gripping conclusion that stayed true to the essence of the original storyline. It depicted the heart-wrenching struggle of the X-Men as they fought to save Jean Grey from the clutches of the Shi’ar. With stunning visuals and intense fight sequences, the adaptation captured the internal conflict and ultimate sacrifice at the core of the narrative. Jean’s tragic fate, symbolizing the corruption of one of the X-Men’s most well-intentioned members, and is an essential X-Men: TAS episode.

3. “Weapon X, Lies, and Video Tape” Explored Wolverine’s Backstory

X-Men Season 3, Episode 19

“Weapon X, Lies, and Video Tape” delves deep into Wolverine’s enigmatic past, offering a tantalizing glimpse into his mysterious origins. The episode unravels the secrets of Wolverine’s transformation into the adamantium-clawed mutant known as Weapon X. As Wolverine confronts his tortured memories and grapples with his identity, viewers are treated to a compelling exploration of his character. The X-Men: TAS episode expertly weaves action-packed sequences with poignant moments of introspection, shedding light on the complexities of Wolverine’s psyche. “Weapon X, Lies, and Video Tape” stands as a captivating installment, establishing Wolverine’s complicated backstory in advance of X-Men ’97.

2. “Beyond Good And Evil” Depicted Apocalypse Being Trapped In The Astral Plane

X-Men Season 4, Episodes 18-21

Throughout X-Men: The Animated Series, Apocalypse stood as one of the most formidable adversaries the X-Men encountered. Continually resurfacing with ambitions to dominate not just the world, but time itself, Apocalypse’s malevolent presence loomed large. Anticipated to make a return in X-Men ’97, his nefarious deeds climaxed in “Beyond Good and Evil” as he orchestrated a gathering of mutant psychics to seize control of the axis of time. Despite his cunning, Apocalypse met his downfall when the X-Men and Cable destroyed his Lazarus Chamber within an ancient pyramid, ensnaring his consciousness within the Astral Plane.

1. “Graduation Day” Was The Perfect Farewell

X-Men Season 5, Episode 10 “Graduation Day”

“Graduation Day” was the poignant X-Men: The Animated Series finale during which Professor Xavier embarks on a cosmic journey, leaving the X-Men to face an uncertain future. As Magneto prepares to wage war against humanity, Xavier is transported into space to seek medical care from Lilandra and the Shi’ar. The episode encapsulates the themes of evolution, acceptance, and the struggle for coexistence. With Xavier’s departure symbolizing the end of an era, and Magneto’s resolve marking a new chapter of conflict, “Graduation Day” serves as a fitting conclusion, leaving a sense of closure while hinting at potential X-Men ’97 stories.