Marvel animation fans have reason to celebrate. The second season ofX-Men ’97arrives on Disney+ on July 1st with a special format: the first three episodes will be released at once. The strategy marks the return of the series two years after the end of the first season, which became one of the platform’s biggest animation successes.
The decision to release multiple chapters at the premiere aims to reward the loyal audience that has followed the journey of the mutants since 2024. Instead of the traditional weekly release, Marvel Animation offers a more immersive start, allowing viewers to immediately dive into the new phase of the story. The remaining episodes of the nine-part season will be released weekly on Wednesdays.
Team fragmented over time
The plot of the second season continues directly from the cliffhanger of the first. After preventing the fall of Asteroid M, the X-Men find themselves dispersed across different timelines. Part of the team ends up in ancient Egypt, around 3000 BC, while other members appear in the distant future, around 3960 AD. In the present of the 1990s, the world of mutants faces new threats without the presence of the heroes.
The main antagonist is Apocalypse, who appears at different moments in his life, expanding the scope of the narrative. While some mutants try to stop the villain at its origins, others deal with the consequences of his power in the future. In the present, new groups like X-Force and X-Factor emerge to fill the vacuum left by the X-Men.
Perfect critical reception
The first episodes shown to the press received maximum marks. Season 2 boasts a 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on early reviews, surpassing even the excellent performance of the first season. Critics highlight the quality of the animation, the fast pace and the fidelity to the spirit of the comics and the classic series from the 90s.
The voices of the original cast, such as Cal Dodd (Wolverine), Lenore Zann (Rogue) and others, return to continue the nostalgia. The production also incorporates striking elements from classic X-Men arcs, such as the Apocalypse saga, without losing the emotional and action tone that won over the audience.
Why Block Format Matters
Releasing three episodes at once is not just a fan pleaser. In a saturated streaming market where viewer attention is fought for, this approach helps create immediate buzz and reduces the risk of spoilers or dropouts. Superhero seasons that start strong tend to maintain engagement throughout the weeks, especially when the plot involves multiple complex timelines.
Since the premiere of the first season in March 2024,X-Men ’97It has established itself as one of Marvel’s most acclaimed animations, reviving the appeal of the original 90s series for new generations. The second season arrives at a time when the mutant universe gains even more relevance in the franchise’s plans.
The series continues to be available on Disney+ along with the first season and the classic 90s animation.