10 Times Supervillains Quit

While he has played the role of supervillain many times, Galactus was always intended to be a being beyond good and evil. He does not expressly wish to harm any other living beings, and has no desire to rule over the world or the universe. He just has a phenomenal appetite, one that can only be sated by absorbing the elemental life force of an entire planet. He's also, as it turns out, a massive chicken.

While The Coming Of Galactus is one of the most iconic storylines in all of Marvel history, it's surprising to remember that it is only three issues long. Compared to the over-bloated, multi-series events that publishers are so fond of these days, that seems positively minuscule. And yet, it is known for being one of the Fantastic Four's most epic of victories.

But maybe... it shouldn't be?

Not to take away from the fact that they prevent doomsday, but Marvel's First Family do so thanks to a very risky bluff and Galactus's almighty cowardice.

After the Human Torch travels through infinity to retrieve the Ultimate Nullifier, a weapon that could destroy an entire universe, Mr. Fantastic simply shows it to the giant alien, and says he'll use it if Galactus doesn't go away. Not only does Galactus fall for this lie, but he promises to never come back to Earth again.

Sometimes, that's all it takes to defeat the Devourer of Worlds: confidence, a barefaced lie, and a weapon you have no idea how to use.