Calling all X-Men fans! X-Men '97 has landed, and it's like stepping right back into the heart of the 90s cartoon we all know and love. With a rocking 9/10 rating so far, it's a pure nostalgia trip that delivers exactly what fans craved.

But Marvel's recent animation ventures have shown a trend of exceeding expectations. Remember What If...?, the Disney+ series that explored alternate timelines in the MCU? It took a familiar concept and injected it with fresh ideas, innovative storytelling, and stunning visuals. Similarly, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse became a critical and commercial darling, praised for its groundbreaking animation, heartwarming story, and an energetic exploration of the multiverse.

Here's where X-Men '97 gets interesting. The deeper we delve into the season, the stronger a certain feeling becomes: there's a sense that X-Men '97 could be truly legendary with the return of Beau DeMayo, the original writer who wasn't there for the final product.

DeMayo's initial plans for the show were exciting. He clearly understood these characters, and his talent for weaving intricate stories was undeniable. While the current team is doing a great job, there's a lingering feeling that a crucial ingredient is missing – that spark of brilliance DeMayo undoubtedly possessed.

Think back to Episode 5 and that mind-blowing twist. DeMayo's original vision, as he explained it, involved starting with nostalgic nods and then taking a dramatic shift in tone. This hinted at a much larger plan that could have unfolded throughout the series, something truly special.

Look, X-Men '97 is a ton of fun. But imagine it with DeMayo back at the helm, steering the creative ship. It has the potential to become a masterpiece, a landmark entry in the X-Men saga, and a continuation of Marvel's recent trend of exceeding expectations in animation. Here's hoping Marvel reconsiders and brings him back to the fold. With the right mind leading the charge, X-Men '97 could truly become something unforgettable.