10 Greatest Superhero Replacements That Outshone The Originals

The original X-Men were five teenagers. Cyclops, Marvel Girl, Angel, Beast and Iceman, they were handpicked by Professor Xavier to represent Mutantkind's best. With their matching outfits and the school setting, these teens fought against villains such as Magento, the Vanisher, Juggernaut and more. Despite later introducing new members such as Havok and Polaris, the series would publish reprints during the first half of the 70s.

But in 1975, Len Wein and Dave Cockrum would bring a new and fresh take on the X-Men. Rather than teens, this team consisting of adults hailing from different countries. There was African Storm, Russian Colossus, German Nightcrawler and Native American Thunderbird. There were also previous X-Men villains Banshee and Sunfire who hailed from Ireland and Japan, respectively. Last but not the least, there was one-time Hulk villain, Wolverine, who would become the most recognizable member of the team.

While members would come and go, this iteration proved to be a success. The 2nd generation X-Men's success made them as popular as the likes of Spider-Man and The Fantastic Four. With more mature themes and a diverse cast, they saved the series from extinction. Their introduction also became the key to the X-Men's success: their ability to change. While other titles could get stagnant, the series' rotating cast members ensured the team would always feel fresh.