The MCU climactic battle against Thanos in Avengers: Infinity War left fans wondering about alternative outcomes. Had certain characters survived or not faced untimely deaths, the Mad Titan’s reign might have faced even fiercer opposition.
Here’s a look at nine MCU characters whose power and potential could have altered the course of events.
1. Odin:
Portrayed by Anthony Hopkins, Odin, the ruler of Asgard, was a formidable figure with a deep connection to the Infinity Stones.
His presence could have deterred Thanos’ pursuit of power. However, Odin’s absence and eventual death in “Thor: Ragnarok” weakened Asgard’s defenses.
2. Bor:
Bor, Odin’s father and former ruler of Asgard, played by Tony Curran, was a powerful force. His generation was the peak of Asgardian strength. However, his lineage’s gradual decline allowed Thanos to exploit vulnerabilities.
3. Hela:
Cate Blanchett’s Hela, goddess of death, possessed immense power tied to Asgard. Her survival could have challenged Thanos’ ambitions, but her defeat in Thor: Ragnarok left the universe exposed.
4. The Ancient One:
Tilda Swinton’s Ancient One, the Sorcerer Supreme, had mastery over powerful magic. Her knowledge could have been instrumental against Thanos. Yet, her demise left Doctor Strange, though talented, less experienced.
5. Dormammu:
Benedict Cumberbatch voiced Dormammu, the Dark Dimension’s ruler. Dormammu’s cosmic power could have thwarted Thanos, but his defeat by Doctor Strange in 2016 altered the balance.
6. Surtur:
Voiced by Clancy Brown, Surtur’s potential to destroy Asgard was formidable. His loss post-Thor: Ragnarok removed a potent force that could have hindered Thanos.
7. Quicksilver:
Aaron Taylor Johnson’s Quicksilver showcased super-speed. Had he survived the Battle of Sokovia in the Age of Ultron, he could have been a significant asset against Thanos.
8. Ultron:
James Spader’s Ultron, a formidable AI, sought Earth’s defense. Had he not been defeated in Age of Ultron, he could have opposed Thanos’ invasion.
9. Ego:
Kurt Russell’s Ego, the Living Planet, harbored immense power. His desire to reshape the universe clashed with Thanos’ plans. The Guardians of the Galaxy’s intervention prevented his opposition.
Speculating on the MCU’s alternate paths reveals the potential for different outcomes against Thanos.
If these characters had survived or maintained their strength, the Avengers’ struggle could have been drastically different. However, the narrative’s twists and losses ultimately paved the way for Thanos’ reign and the heroic journey to stop him.