The main story of this issue really kicks off after a few pages of prologue. At Avengers HQ, Captain America responds to a “Radio Free” message from Sin-Cong requesting help. The Avengers assemble (as they do!) and head off on a mission to aid the people of Sin-Cong—only to discover it’s a trap.

Tricked and trapped, the Avengers must battle The Commissar, an apparently invincible and unbeatable foe. But are things ever as they seem? Can Earth’s Mightiest Heroes find a way to triumph?

Characters & Development

Capitan America, Nick Fury, and Motivations

Back in Avengers #15, we saw Captain America pen a letter to Colonel Nick Fury, expressing interest in joining his counter-espionage unit. In this issue, Cap reflects on that letter, wishing Fury would respond. When the Sin-Cong mission arises, it’s clear in the back of Cap’s mind that this could be a stepping stone to joining Fury’s “Agency.” We even get a glimpse of Fury in Cap’s thoughts—eyepatch and all.

Tangent Time: This isn’t Nick Fury’s first appearance in the modern Marvel era—that honor belongs to Fantastic Four #21, where he’s introduced as a CIA Colonel Sans eyepatch at that time.

Back to Avengers #18: Cap’s thought process reveals a man yearning for a more modern and independent existence—one not bound by the past or by reliance on others. As he resides in the Avengers Mansion, funded by Tony Stark (whom he believes is Iron Man’s boss), it’s clear he longs to step out from under someone else’s hand. But let’s be honest: Marvel might also be using this moment to set the stage for Strange Tales #135 (dropping about a month after this issue), which introduces Nick Fury as Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D. In a clever bit of cross-promotion, this issue develops a character who doesn’t even appear in the story (beyond the cameo clip).

The New Avengers

Then we have the new Avengers, still learning to work together and figuring out who they are as a team. While moments of tension pop up here and there, there’s less outright conflict between them this time. Overall, the team seems to be rallying behind Captain America as their leader, showing some real progress in their dynamic.

We also see more of their individual personalities and abilities shine through. The differences between Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver are explored further, but their sibling bond remains a strong anchor for both characters. Hawkeye starts to expand his role, trying out new kinds of arrows and stepping up in his own way. Then, of course, Captain America’s sharp instincts and leadership play a crucial role in helping the team navigate the challenges they face.

Originality & Continuity

Scarlett Witch: Heroine as Damsel in Distress to winning the day

Thanks to Captain America’s sharp instincts and Scarlet Witch’s hex powers, the Avengers ultimately claim victory. It’s refreshing to see Wanda transition from a damsel in distress to the hero who saves the day in the final moments. It’s a satisfying arc for her in this issue, and I hope Marvel doesn’t fall into the habit of reducing her to a damsel too often—though that was a common trope of the era.

Story & Artwork

On the whole, this story is solid but doesn’t break new ground like some previous issues. It’s a fun read with a few standout moments, but it feels like the new team is still finding its footing. Or maybe this issue is simply testing the waters for the Avengers’ new status quo.

The artwork, however, pulls the story up a notch. It’s dynamic, engaging, and keeps the reader invested. While the plot lands in “average” territory, the art elevates it to an above-average piece overall.