The Most Powerful Earth-Based Character in Marvel Comics: Franklin Richards Explained

Is 616 Franklin Richards currently the most powerful Earth-based/Earthling character in Marvel Comics? The answer, much to many fans' disappointment, is: No. Just no.

Comparing Franklin to Other Marvel Heroes

Franklin Richards is certainly a formidable character, but he is not the most powerful hero within the Marvel Universe. There are several superheroes and characters that surpass him in terms of raw power and abilities. These include:

Rune King Thor Chaos War Hercules Phoenix Force Jean Grey

The most powerful character in the Marvel Universe is none other than The One Above All. This being is omnipotent, omnipresent, and omniscient. Franklin, in his adult form, falls short of these incredible attributes.

Current Power Level of Franklin Richards

The question of Franklin Richards' current power level is complex. It

depends on what we mean by 'currently'. In the present day of Earth-616, Franklin is almost powerless. Reed Richards, his father, and Susan Richards, his mother, possess advanced but more specific abilities compared to Franklin's. Reed's stretching powers and Susan's invisible/invisible woman abilities highlight their specialized strength, while Franklin's powers are more nebulous and less defined.

However, if we consider a very long-term or futuristic timeline, things look quite different. In the most recent issues of The History of the Marvel Universe, it is confirmed that Franklin is the most powerful mutant ever born, which strongly suggests that he might also be the most powerful Earthling ever. This is supported by his ability to generate a multiverse and the revelation by Galactus that Franklin is preparing to merge with Eternity and become the new Galactus in the next multiverse.

Future Perspective on Franklin Richards

Galactus, at the end of time, mentions this grand plan, indicating that Franklin is transitioning to an even more powerful state. However, this future is set during the end of all futures, making it a speculative and distant possibility.

Logically, we know that Franklin's future state is a condition that will change, but we do not have a clear timeline. His character often serves as a reflection of wish-fulfillment fantasies, embodying the best traits one could hope for in their own offspring.

Jokes and Theories About Franklin Richards

Franklin Richards is frequently the subject of jokes and theories, much like the popular Chuck Norris jokes. His remarkable ability to make even a godlike being like Galactus his aide is a testament to his power fantasy status. Critics often rate his power level to be somewhere between Molecule Man and The One Above All. Many would argue that this power level is not enough to consistently challenge the more established heroes of the Marvel Universe.

Franklin Richards may not be the most powerful character, but his journey through the Marvel Universe continues to captivate fans. His tales continue to evolve, and as the narrative unfolds, the question of his true power and place in the Marvel cosmos remains an open and intriguing topic.