Ghost Rider duking it out with Galactus in a One-Shot… “Nuff Said!” 

$4.99

Release Date 6/4/2025

Writer – J. Michael Straczynski

Artist – Juan Ferreyra

The Matchup We’ve Been Waiting For

Both of the titular characters are popular and have had recent resurgences. Despite being around in Marvel since 1966 (Galactus) and 1972 (Ghost Rider), respectively, their characterizations and backstories have both been developed quite a bit more in the last ten years or so as well. Hence, this face-off makes sense and should already capture the interest of many curious or devoted Marvel followers.

Other Marvel Versus

Ghost Rider VS. Galactus isn’t the first time Marvel has put two heavy hitters against each other. Still, there are fewer issues with VS in the title than you would think. There are even fewer that are One-Shots like Ghost Rider VS. Galactus. Some of the highlights, as far as mini-series, include The Punisher vs. The Marvel Universe and Deadpool V Gambit. Notably, The Incredible Hulk vs. Venom #1 (1994) is one of the few comparable “One-Shot Vs.” series. That book features two arguably even more popular characters. Each thinks the other is a villain and battle it out until they realize they are both reformed. That is not the case in Ghost Rider Vs Galactus

More Than Meets the Eye

Ghost Rider VS Galactus could easily be just a cosmic and supernaturally powered battle filled with hellfire and purple cosmic blasts. As a Marvel fan, that’s what I expected and was looking forward to indulging in. 

While there are some battling, cosmic-fueled panels, and certainly burning hellfire, this book is so much more. It lures you in right away with stunning art and a badass modern but classic-based version of Ghost Rider. 

Then, the book transitions into what appears to be an edgy but funny book starring Ghost Rider. The comedy again throws off the reader for what’s to come. 

The Plot

The premise of the book is simple. Ben Grimm asks his buddy, a passing Johnny Blaze, if he could use his Penance Stare. He wants to make Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds, pay for all the lives he’s taken. It’s an interesting question and a very jolting ask from a laid-back, random meeting. 

The absurdity continues with Ghost Rider’s method of reaching Galactus, which shouldn’t be spoiled. Then the promised battle begins. It continues for seven full pages and does not disappoint. It includes a wild version of Ghost Rider we’ve never seen before. 

Here, the book makes its final transition into something completely different and unexpected.

What is Ghost Rider VS. Galactus Really About?

While this comic’s set-up appears to be a battle or test of power between two heavy-hitting favorites, it also dives into Galactus’ significance. It explores his place in the universe, universes, and eternity. We get a detailed and complex breakdown of how all existence works, with Galactus at its center. 

My explanation here can’t be considered a spoiler. It’s simply a surface-level teaser compared to the comic’s six full pages. These pages are devoted to explaining the concept and reality of the Marvel world. Then, of course, there’s a twist ending and reflection for the reader to contemplate. 

My Thoughts

The book really surprised me in a good way. It could have been boring. It could have been silly. It could have just been a 20-page fight filled with crazy visuals.

Instead it is a story and reveals no one expected or knew they needed to learn. The art and colors are impressive. The visual looks of these classic Marvel characters are fresh and fun. The promised fight is satisfying. The twists are surprising. The ending is well stuck. 

I give Ghost Rider VS Galactus 4 out of 5 ill-fitting suit jokes. I recommend it for fans of Galactus, Ghost Rider, Marvel lore, and heady Marvel concepts.