UNCANNY X-MEN ANNUAL #1 opens a hidden chapter — turn‑of‑century Mutants and a Wolverine secret

Gail Simone and Francesco Mortarino dive into the forgotten era of the Regulators, a late‑1800s mutant enclave at Haven House, and tease a long‑buried link to Wolverine’s early life. The debut annual promises mystery, period flavor, and a fresh look at X‑Men lore.

The first issue of the Uncanny X‑Men Annual steps out of the recent Dark Artery storyline to shine a light on a lost slice of mutant history. Set in the turn‑of‑the‑century, it introduces the Regulators, a group of mutants who once made Haven House their sanctuary. This isn’t just a nostalgic side‑quest; it’s a chance to see the X‑Men world through a Victorian‑era lens.

At the heart of the story are the Regulators themselves—mutants whose powers and motives are steeped in the social upheavals of the era. As they grapple with threats both human and mutant, a thread pulls them toward the younger Wolverine, hinting that his past might be tangled with this hidden community. The narrative balances period intrigue with the raw edge that makes Wolverine such an iconic figure.

What makes this annual a must‑grab is the collaborative spark between Simone’s sharp dialogue and Mortarino’s detailed, mood‑rich artwork. Simone’s reputation for weaving character‑driven plots shines through, while Mortarino captures the gritty, fog‑laden streets of the 1800s with a style that feels both classic and fresh. The cover by David Marquez adds a striking, modern finish that hints at the story’s depth.

If the idea of a historic mutant enclave intrigues you, you might also enjoy the recent Uncanny X‑Men #1, which reintroduces core team dynamics while setting up new threats. Both issues complement each other, offering a layered view of the X‑Men’s past and present.

Drop the annual into your stack and let the Regulators’ secret world expand your understanding of Wolverine’s roots. It’s a concise, compelling read that feels like finding a missing page in the X‑Men saga.