In 2026, Marvel and Mattel are both aiming to tap into our childhood memories with new animated series. Masters of the Universe has released a live-action film, while the second season of X-Men '97 is about to launch. Both projects share a love for their source material, but only one understands the importance of keeping its characters and worlds relevant.

The recently aired second season of X-Men '97 takes fans on an epic journey through time, introducing fresh elements from recent comics while reworking established lore. This approach has kept the X-Men brand vibrant since 2024, ensuring it remains a beloved property. In contrast, He-Man's world has seen less success lately.

Mattel’s Masters of the Universe movie underperformed due to its failure to connect emotionally with audiences. While the film attempts to address toxic masculinity, this hasn’t resonated strongly enough to boost box office numbers or fan interest.

Movies and shows like X-Men '97 demonstrate that simply reviving old franchises isn't enough—creators must also engage contemporary issues and keep stories fresh. Marvel’s continued investment in the X-Men has paid off, while Mattel's approach to He-Man may not have been as effective.

The upcoming year will see more significant stories for mutants, with X-Men '97 and Avengers: Doomsday taking centre stage. The contrast between these two properties offers valuable lessons about the importance of staying relevant in a rapidly changing media landscape.