Contest of Champions

Published in 1982 by Marvel Comics, 'Contest of Champions' was a three-issue limited series written by Mark Gruenwald, Bill Mantlo, and Steven Grant, with art by John Romita Jr. and Bob Layton. This story arc is notable for being Marvel's first limited series and a precursor to the modern crossover event. The plot centers around the Grandmaster and the mysterious entity known as the Unknown, who pit teams of superheroes against each other in a cosmic game. The Grandmaster's goal is to revive his fellow Elder of the Universe, the Collector, while the Unknown has her own secretive motives. Key characters include Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, and the Hulk, among others, who are divided into teams to compete in various challenges. The series had a significant impact on Marvel's storytelling approach, introducing the concept of heroes from different series interacting in a single storyline. Although it did not have lasting changes on the continuity, it set the stage for future crossover events. The series was well-received for its ambitious scope and the novelty of seeing so many characters together.