This issue begins with The Thing and The Human Torch navigating a police checkpoint before heading onto a toll bridge. As they learn about a nearby bank robbery, a support cable on the bridge snaps, prompting the duo to leap into action to prevent a catastrophic collapse. Meanwhile, the police manage to apprehend the bank robbers right on the bridge.

However, this seemingly routine heroic intervention inadvertently disrupts the grand plans of the Mad Thinker. His supercomputer, boasting a 99.99% success rate, failed to predict the heroes’ timely arrival. Frustrated, the Mad Thinker shifts gears, spending time developing then unleashing a bizarre weapon—essentially, a destructive bouncing ball—designed to incapacitate The Human Torch and The Thing.

The majority of the ensuing action takes place against the backdrop of a newly operational dam, with the threat of catastrophic flooding looming over the area. Despite the ball proving to be a significant obstacle, the heroes once again rely on unanticipated actions to defeat the Mad Thinker and save the day—though he remains an unseen presence throughout.

Story

Overall, the story feels weak, with lackluster pacing and uninspired action. It left me with more questions than answers about both the Mad Thinker’s plan and the actions of our heroic duo (or even the Fantastic Four as a team). While the story might appeal to 99.99% of readers—much like the Mad Thinker’s predictions—it ultimately didn’t work for me.

Artwork

The artwork, while slightly improved, still leaves much to be desired. Perhaps this is as Bob Powell’s style is beginning to grow on me, but the improvement is minimal. Although this issue feels less flat than the previous one, the lackluster story does little to elevate the visuals.