Alien vs. Captain America #4: D-Day

I’ve always appreciated when a comic opens with a bit of exposition to ground the reader, and this issue handles that well. The backstory of how the “Red King” came to be — merging a Xenomorph Queen with the Red Skull — is delivered in a classic, almost old-school way. Normally that kind of setup can slow things down, but here it works. In an issue packed with action, it’s better to clear the table early so the chaos can unfold without constant interruptions.

The D-Day sequence is a standout. Dropping Xenomorphs into one of the most iconic moments in World War II could have felt gimmicky, but instead it feels intense and cinematic. The blend of real-world history with science fiction horror is handled with confidence, creating a brutal and visually striking battlefield. It’s the kind of “what if?” scenario that fully commits to the premise rather than playing it safe.

Artistically, the issue strikes a strong balance between eras. There’s a retro comic sensibility in the framing and dialogue, especially in the historical sections, but it’s layered with a more modern grit and grounded tone. When the story shifts to the present day in the final pages, the visual language evolves with it — the atmosphere changes, the costumes feel sharper, and the tone tightens. It’s a smart example of storytelling through visual contrast.

Most importantly, the action is well-paced. It doesn’t feel rushed or cluttered. The battles breathe, the choreography is readable, and the momentum carries the issue forward in a way that feels right for a Captain America story — especially one colliding with the Alien universe.

I also appreciate that the story doesn’t shy away from the reality of war. Even with superheroes involved, there are casualties. That weight matters. However, my one gripe is how some of the lesser-known heroes are introduced only to be quickly reduced to cannon fodder. It feels like a missed opportunity. There was real potential to showcase what these B-list characters could do, even if their fate was sealed. Giving them a defining moment before their fall would have made those losses hit harder.