X-Men ’97 Season 2 Review: Marvel Animation Delivers Another Winner
- Lance
- Jun 17
- 3 min read
After watching the first four episodes of X-Men '97 Season 2, I can honestly say that if you loved what Marvel Animation did in Season 1, you're probably going to be very happy with where this story is headed, I mean they absolutely COOKED!
What impressed me the most is that the show doesn't waste any time. Season 2 picks up right where things left off, and from the very first episode it feels like the writers know exactly what story they want to tell. The stakes are bigger,because well it's Apocalypse, the emotional moments hit harder, and somehow they managed to make Apocalypse feel even more terrifying than he already was.
One of the things I've always loved about X-Men is that it isn't just about superheroes punching each other. I have always felt that it's about family, sacrifice, and trying to do the right thing even when your back is against the wall. These first four episodes understand that completely. There are plenty of action scenes,and those action scenes are animated beautifully but the character moments are what really stand out to me so far.
The relationships between the members of the team ( or should I say teams) continue to be the heart of the show. Whether it's old friendships being tested, long-awaited reunions, or characters struggling with difficult decisions, there is a lot of emotional weight packed into this season. You can tell the writers have a genuine love and respect for these characters.
I was also surprised by how much I enjoyed some of the newer team dynamics. Certain characters who didn't always get the spotlight in previous seasons get opportunities to shine here, and the show does a great job balancing its massive cast without making anyone feel completely forgotten.
Now let's talk about the visuals because Marvel Animation absolutely showed out.
Season 1 looked great, but Season 2 somehow looks even better. The colors practically jump off the screen. Every location feels distinct, whether the story is taking place in futuristic environments, ancient civilizations, or classic X-Men locations that longtime fans will instantly recognize.
The action sequences are incredible. Powers are animated with so much energy and creativity that every fight feels unique. Storm continues to have some of the coolest visual moments and Paired with her vocal performance and her classic one liners , it feels epic. Magneto's powers look phenomenal as well, and there are several sequences throughout these episodes that honestly look like they were pulled straight from a comic book splash page come to life.
Another thing I appreciated is how unapologetically comic book this season feels. Instead of trying to simplify things, the show fully embraces the wild concepts that have made X-Men stories so memorable over the years. Longtime fans are going to catch references, character appearances, and moments that feel like rewards for sticking with these characters for decades.
If I had one criticism, it's that four episodes simply weren't enough. That's just me being a greedy fan though. Every episode left me wanting to immediately start the next one. The pacing moves quickly, and because there are so many moving pieces, some storylines could probably benefit from a little more breathing room. That being said, I never found myself bored. The season so far is a non stop thrill ride and I love that even in some of the more calm moments it still keeps you locked in.
What really stands out is the confidence behind this season. The creative team knows these characters, understands what makes them special, and isn't afraid to take big swings.
After four episodes, X-Men '97 Season 2 feels bigger, more ambitious, and even more emotional than the first season. It delivers exciting action, beautiful animation, strong character work, and enough surprises to keep fans talking for weeks.
If the rest of the season is anywhere near as good as these opening episodes, Marvel Animation may have another classic on its hands.
X-Men 97 Season 2 Premieres on Disney + July 1st, don’t miss it!
The voice acting is also amazing in X-Men 97 because the new voice actors like Ray Fisher, Ross Marquand, AJ Locascio etc., are honoring the original voice actors John Colicos, Cedric Smith, Chris Potter by matching their cadences so perfectly.
When I saw the trailer for it I felt they are continuing the storyline from "Beyond Good and Evil", "Axis of Time" by stepping it up a notch with storytelling and animation with beautiful color pallet, animation, production art backdrop mixed with animation giving it that 3D feel to it.