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The X-Men have survived countless reinventions since their debut in 1963, but every new era brings the same challenge about how do you keep Marvel's mutant heroes feeling fresh without losing what made them iconic in the first place? As the franchise continues its post-Krakoa direction, that debate has only become louder among longtime readers.
Now, Uncanny X-Men writer Gail Simone has offered a rare glimpse into the creative philosophy guiding her run. Sharing a list of personal rules she follows while writing the series on her Facebook account, Simone outlined an approach that focuses on adventure, character, and originality. Looking closely at those ideas, it's easy to see why many fans believe they could benefit the entire X-Men line, not just one title.
"1) Tell different stories than are being told elsewhere
2) Be entertaining. It’s the best cast in comics, let them be cool and fun and badass.
3) Don’t focus on the same eight villains. Bring new stuff.
4) Give them a setting of their own that is new and feels consequential.
5) When possible, tour the best dark corners of the MU.
6) Bring some new POV characters, people who could see Wolverine for the first time and we can feel their wonder.
7) Where possible, push the sexiness of the sexiest superheroes ever.
8)As much as possible, avoid the ‘they are hated and feared more than ever!’ trope.
9) Don’t be afraid to break hearts.
10) Honor the classics, don’t imitate them forever.
11) Remember you are writing UNCANNY X-MEN and that is about the funnest gig in all Marvel comics.
12) Repeat rule #2 every day.
13) See rule #12."
- Gail Simone
A Formula Built Around Fresh Stories and Bigger Adventures For The X-Men
One of Simone's biggest priorities has been avoiding repetition. Rather than telling stories that overlap with other X-Men books, she aims to give Uncanny X-Men its own identity. That means introducing different conflicts, exploring overlooked parts of the Marvel Universe, and creating a setting that feels meaningful instead of simply revisiting familiar locations.
She also believes the franchise should move beyond relying on the same handful of classic villains. While enemies like Magneto, Mister Sinister, and the Sentinels remain essential parts of X-Men history, Simone's philosophy encourages expanding the rogues' gallery with new threats capable of surprising readers. Fresh antagonists often lead to fresh storytelling opportunities.
Another cornerstone of her approach is making the series genuinely entertaining. Simone has described the X-Men as one of comics' greatest ensembles, arguing they should be allowed to be funny, stylish, heroic, and exciting. Instead of becoming trapped in constant tragedy, the team should remind readers why these characters have remained popular for decades.
Putting the X-Men Characters Back at the Center
Simone's guidelines also emphasize perspective. She wants new point-of-view characters who can experience legendary heroes like Wolverine with the same awe readers once felt. Introducing fresh eyes helps longtime icons regain their sense of mystery while giving newcomers a natural way into the story.
Her list also encourages leaning into the confidence and charisma that have always defined many of Marvel's mutant heroes. Rather than stripping away their personalities, Simone argues the X-Men should embrace their individuality, relationships, and larger-than-life appeal without losing emotional depth.
Possibly the most notable rule is her desire to move away from the familiar "hated and feared more than ever" storyline whenever possible. Discrimination has always been important to the X-Men's identity, but Simone suggests the franchise has relied on that conflict so often that exploring different emotional territory could make future stories feel more impactful.
Respect the X-Men Past Without Being Trapped by It
Even while pushing for change, Simone makes it clear that history still matters. One of her guiding principles is honoring classic X-Men stories rather than endlessly recreating them. The goal isn't to replace beloved eras but to build on their foundation with ideas that reflect today's readers and creative possibilities.
She also argues that writers shouldn't shy away from emotional consequences. Great X-Men stories have always balanced spectacular superhero action with heartbreaking personal moments. Whether through sacrifice, difficult choices, or unexpected losses, genuine emotional stakes help make victories feel earned.
Finally, Simone ends her philosophy on a surprisingly simple note by saying to never forget that writing Uncanny X-Men should be fun. She even reinforces that lesson by repeatedly reminding herself to prioritize entertainment above everything else. That outlook may sound straightforward, but it's a philosophy that resonates with many readers who simply want to enjoy spending time with Marvel's mutant heroes.
While Simone originally created these rules for her own run, they outline a bigger vision for the franchise. They encourage innovation without abandoning tradition, introduce new ideas without ignoring history, and place memorable characters ahead of familiar formulas. If more X-Men titles embraced those same principles, Marvel could deliver a line of books that feels both recognizable and genuinely exciting for the next generation of fans.
