6 Comics You Need To Read Before Marvel's Secret Empire

The most important series leading into Secret Empire is Captain America: Steve Rogers, which initially faced a massive backlash, including media coverage of the now infamous image of Captain America saying "Hail Hydra." Written by Secret Empire scribe Nick Spencer, this is the most important series to read leading into Marvel's latest event.

This series shows Cap in present day while giving flashbacks to his youth. The story follows up closely on Avengers: Standoff! and tells a compelling narrative on how this change from patriot to Hydra came about.

One of the more fascinating aspects of this comic is how it shows that even in his altered state, Steve Rogers is the same person he always was at his core. The conviction, leadership, and belief that make up the character are all still present.

One day Captain America will return to the status quo - that's just how comics work. It probably won't be for some time, but until that time comes, Secret Empire and the comics leading up to it are stories well worth reading.