The DC Universe’s version of the X-Men might actually have better costumes than the mutant team. The Zen-Men are an analogue of Marvel’s X-Men, but have arguably improved on their designs.
Through the years, DC Comics has paid tribute to the Marvel Universe several times, sometimes with more obvious nods than others. Although writers and artists have frequently worked for both publishers and have expressed their appreciation for both universes, there is a particular advantage when inventing analogue characters. As the X-Men are referenced in the DC Universe, the new team of heroes is practically a second draft version of Professor X’s mutant students. The Zen-Men appear with a revitalized look in Flash Forward #2, written by Scott Lobdell with art by Brett Booth.
When the Retaliators come on the scene, they team up with the Zen-Men who are wearing costumes that homage the X-Men’s uniforms. However, they are arguable stronger designs than the mutants. Formally known as the G-Men, the group also known as the Zen-Men include Night Troller, Windrider, and analogues to Cyclops, Jean Grey, Colossus, Beast, Wolverine, Gambit, Rogue, and Warpath. Writers have not hidden the fact that they are direct references to the Marvel mutants, making such a comparison seem both inevitable and welcomed.
Although their matching lime green costumes could use a recolor, their overall uniforms take a note from the classic X-Men costumes, and make them look more refined. With the inspiration of the original team, DC has a slight advantage on Marvel as they draw from an already beloved roster of heroes. Analogue characters can feel hollow and cheap, but the Zen-Men outshine their mutant counterparts with costumes that walk a line between fantastical and grounded. While each suit signals their team effort, they are also distinct, embodying the personality of a member. Often, the X-Men have been designed with uniforms that restrict their unique characteristics.
Typically, artists have tried to balance the mutants’ suits with their powers, personalities, and the team they share a part in. Often, there can be some unequal representation among these qualities, but DC managed to find middle ground with the Zen-Men. Granted their personalities remain a mystery to readers, it’s safe to say they strongly resemble their Marvel counterparts. Maintaining a sense of mystery and incorporating color into their designs, the analogue to the X-Men rivals the original team.
