REVIEW: 'Exceptional X-Men' #12 Takes A Shaky Step Into Time Travel
- Keith M.
- Aug 20
- 3 min read
This review contains minor spoilers for 'Exceptional X-Men' #12.
One of the things I’ve appreciated most about Exceptional X-Men is how authentically it captures the tone of a youth- or teen-focused X-Men book. Compared to other titles that often lean into heavier or more mature themes, this series maintains a sense of exuberance and charm that feels both natural and refreshing. That’s probably why I was especially excited to see the development of Trista’s crush, Reggie. In this issue, it’s confirmed that Reggie is a mutant, and it appears he may have accidentally used his powers to send Kitty Pryde into the past. But more on that in a moment.
A recurring thread in recent issues has been the eagerness of the newer mutants—Bronze, Axo, and Melee—to prove themselves. Ever since their encounter with Sinister, they’ve seemed increasingly ready to jump into action and demonstrate that they can handle real challenges. That energy is present again during a training session with Iceman, which gets interrupted when they realize Kitty has gone missing. There’s understandable concern, as she’d last been seen storming off upset, but before anyone can go looking, Ironheart arrives with Reggie and starts to explain what’s going on.
From here, the pacing starts to feel a bit rushed. Emma Frost quickly identifies Reggie’s powers and how they work after only a brief mind scan and a couple of questions. It’s also determined that neither she nor Bobby can travel into the past to retrieve Kitty, as their involvement would disrupt key parts of Kitty’s development. This conveniently clears the way for the new trio to take on their first mission alone. Their excitement feels a little over the top given the circumstances, but Ironheart does provide them with a way back, which adds some structure to the setup.
The momentum continues to pick up, though not always smoothly. Emma helps Reggie open a portal to the past and supports him in holding it open long enough for the others to pass through. But just as Axo, Bronze, and Melee step through, three Sentinel Hounds arrive. This moment felt out of place, especially since Sentinels haven’t played a role in the series up to this point. Riri explains that the Hounds were drawn not to mutant signatures, but to the energy of Reggie’s powers, which felt a little thin and sudden.
The issue ends on a cliffhanger as the young team encounters someone unexpected during their search for Kitty. I won’t spoil who, but it sets up an intriguing next chapter. Overall, this was a solid issue, though probably the weakest in the run so far. The pacing and plot mechanics could have used more breathing room, but the engaging cast and consistent artwork help hold things together. It’s still a worthwhile entry, and I’m looking forward to seeing how these new X-Men rise to the occasion on their first true solo mission.
About Exceptional X-Men #12
Release Date: August 20, 2025
Written by: Eve Ewing
Art by: Federica Mancin
Cover by: Carmen Carnero
Page Count: 26
Synopsis: KITTY PRYDE IS MISSING! And only her beloved students AXO, MELEE and BRONZE can get her back. But first, they need to uncover the truth about a mutant who's been hiding a secret.
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