Avengers: Secret Wars May Be Split in Two as Marvel Eyes Bigger Saga

Marvel Studios is reportedly considering dividing Avengers: Secret Wars into two installments, according to recent developments. The film, slated as a pivotal moment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s evolution, is currently scheduled for release in 2027. If plans proceed as suggested, the first part would debut that year, followed by a second installment in 2028. This approach would echo Marvel’s previous strategy with the Infinity Saga, which concluded through the back-to-back releases of Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame.

Soft Reboot and Franchise Expansion with X-Men and Fantastic Four

Secret Wars is expected to usher in Phase 7 of the MCU and serve as a soft reboot of the cinematic universe. The storyline will introduce long-anticipated characters such as the X-Men and the Fantastic Four, integrating them more directly into the overarching narrative. In the source material, the Secret Wars storyline centers around the Beyonder, a cosmic being who creates a battle arena known as Battleworld. There, heroes and villains from multiple realities are forced into combat for the Beyonder’s observation. It remains uncertain whether Marvel Studios will follow this classic comic arc or develop a new interpretation tailored to the current cinematic direction.

Lead-Up in Avengers: Doomsday and Return of Iconic Characters

The foundation for Secret Wars will be established in Avengers: Doomsday, set to premiere on December 18, 2026. This installment will bring together established teams such as the Avengers, X-Men, and Fantastic Four. Central to the plot will be Doctor Doom, portrayed by Robert Downey Jr., marking his return to the franchise in a new role. This version of Doom reportedly commands an army of multiversal variants and is driven by a mission to prevent the destruction of his own dimension—regardless of the cost to others.

The narrative ambiguity surrounding Doom’s intentions opens speculation about a broader cosmic force behind the scenes, potentially linking to the Beyonder and the upcoming events of Secret Wars. Downey’s involvement is said to be limited to this film, potentially serving as a narrative bridge to the next large-scale threat confronting Marvel’s heroes.

Phase Six Launches with the Fantastic Four

Before the multiversal conflict unfolds, Phase Six of the MCU will begin with the release of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, which is scheduled to arrive in July. Directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, this project marks the first official appearance of Marvel’s original superhero family in the MCU continuity and is expected to provide key context for events in Avengers: Doomsday and beyond.