REVIEW: ‘Uncanny X-Men’ #12 - Gambit’s Past, New Threats, And A Cajun Twist
- Keith M.
- Mar 26
- 2 min read
Uncanny X-Men #12 marks the first issue following the X-Manhunt crossover event, and it’s a refreshing change of pace. The story picks up shortly after the previous arc and shines the spotlight on everyone’s favorite Cajun, Gambit. While the Outliers, the ragtag group of young mutants, make an appearance, the issue is predominantly told from Gambit’s perspective, allowing readers to experience his signature accent and colloquialisms in full force.
It’s a welcome shift from the usual narration we've seen, especially given Rogue’s more bristled approach to the world since the Fall of X. Rogue’s leadership struggles, her ideological clashes with Cyclops, and the overall pressure she’s been under have dominated much of the narrative in recent issues. Gambit’s perspective brings a breath of fresh air, deviating a bit from the ongoing mutant crisis. We step away from the larger conflicts to explore Gambit’s past, a fitting focus given the story is set in Louisiana, where the cultural and historical context of his upbringing is key to understanding his character.
The issue offers a fun and insightful dive into Gambit’s childhood, shedding light on the heavy price he paid as a young member of the Thieves Guild. We’re introduced to a new character, Vic, who gives off strong Killer Croc vibes. Vic is a mutant who has haunted Gambit for decades, holding a debt over his head—a situation that, given Gambit’s past, isn’t surprising. Through this subplot, we get more background on Gambit’s connection to the St. Juniors and Have House, the Uncanny X-Men’s current home and base of operations.
While this issue provides a nice break from the intensity of the two recent crossover events (Raid on Graymalkin and X-Manhunt), it does veer away from some of the mysteries that have been building in the book’s early issues. We still don’t know which mutant cheated death and will soon pay the price, or which member of the Outliers is the Endling, the one destined to bring ruin to mutantkind. It’s clear readers will need to stick with the series as the next issue promises to plunge the Outliers into a terrifying adventure tied to the very history of mutants.
In all, Uncanny X-Men #12 delivers a solid, character-driven story that explores Gambit’s past and sets the stage for the next big chapter in the Outliers' story. The balance of action, character development, and mystery makes it a compelling read, and fans of Gambit will particularly enjoy the focus on his backstory.
About Uncanny X-Men
Release Date: March 26, 2025
Written by: Gail Simone
Art by: Gavin Guidry, Matt Wilson
Cover by: David Marquez, Matt Wilson
Page Count: 32 Pages
Synopsis: The smoothest X-Man, Remy LeBeau, A.K.A. GAMBIT, is forced to face his past, as an UNSTOPPABLE force comes to collect a DEBT, whether from the Cajun’s pocket or his HIDE. Details of Remy’s life, never before revealed in this thrilling one-shot crime tale, as everyone’s favorite card-thrower faces THE VIG.
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