X-Factor: The Original X-Men Omnibus Vol. 3

The original five conclude their X-Factor adventures and return to the X-Men fold!

Cyclops, Jean Grey, Iceman, Beast and Archangel are professionals through and through. But when the likes of Sabretooth, a cadre of vampires and a threat from an alternate dystopian future wage war against our heroes, it’s no big surprise that things get a little out of control! And when the island nation of Genosha strikes at the X-Men, the New Mutants and X-Factor join an assemblage of mutants to mount a rescue mission that leads to disaster. With old foe Cameron Hodge pulling the strings, it could even end in X-Tinction! Then X-Factor must contend with the return of Apocalypse and the shocking loss of Cyclops’ son, Nathan Christopher — before an ordeal with the Shadow King that leads Scott, Jean, Bobby, Hank and Warren back home to the X-Men! It’s the end of an era — setting the stage for a (blue and) golden age!

COLLECTING: X-Factor (1986) #51-70; X-Factor Annual (1986) #5-6; X-Factor: Prisoner of Love (1990) #1; Marvel Fanfare (1982) #50; Uncanny X-Men (1981) #270-273, #278-280; New Mutants (1983) #95-97; material from Fantastic Four Annual (1963) #23; New Mutants Annual (1984) #6; X-Men Annual (1970) #14; X-Force Annual (1992) #1; Marvel Comics Presents (1988) #74, #85-92

Written by Louise Simonson, Peter David, Chris Claremont, Jim Lee, Whilce Portacio, Fabian Nicieza, Jo Duffy, Scott Lobdell & More

Penciled by Terry Shoemaker, Marc Silvestri, Steven Carr, Andy Kubert, Jon Bogdanove, Whilce Portacio, Butch Guice, Joe Staton, Jim Lee, Paul Smith, Rob Liefeld, Guang Yap, Jae Lee & More

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs