Marvel's New Punisher Logo and Era Explained | Screen Rant
The Punisher is making headlines once again, thanks to the unexpected reveal of a new logo and mission, beginning in Punisher #1. The former white skull became one of the most recognizable symbols in comics, or pop culture, encapsulating Frank Castle's one-man war on crime. But the new skull on Punisher's chest points to something much larger for the world's most accomplished killer... and the ghost from the past Frank is now willing to kill for.
The Punisher's new crest places him at the head of the Hand, the ninja organization was once led by Spider-Man arch-nemesis, Kingpin, and long-time Daredevil love interest, Elektra. Now a servant of the Beast, presumably the power behind the ninja Hand's ability to be resurrected, Frank is giving up his quest for vigilante justice. Now, he's on a mission to live for his lost wife, Maria.
Jason Aaron, Jesús Saíz and Paul Azaceta's new 13-issue Punisher miniseries sees Frank Castle once again joined to his beloved wife, Maria Castle. Famously having been killed in Marvel Preview #12 back in 1975, Maria, their son Frank Jr., and daughter Lisa were the impetus for Frank Castle's war against criminals. Now the demonic Beast has created a monster within Frank who has been in a constant battle within himself and throughout the natural and unnatural worlds. Frank now serves at the behest of one of the darkest demonic figures in the Marvel Universe, and dons his evil likeness upon his chest as he exacts the Beast's will upon the Earth.
While the change from the skull to the literal mark of the Beast has been controversial, the potential for character growth and even greater tragedy looms large over the series. The Punisher has traded in his guns for swords, the weapons of the ninja clan, and the unmistakable skull for the symbol of the dark god of the Hand. After being approached by the Archpriestess of the Hand, Frank is also at war with a new group called the Apostles of War. Meaning readers will get to see Castle digging in with old foes and new ones, and what are sure to be even larger, likely supernatural threats.
This new chapter for Frank Castle is also the one that could possibly break him... if the warning signs are to be trusted. Punisher #1 is in comic book stores and available on digital now.