Astral projecting from his very sculpt, our #3 is the Sorceror Supreme, Dr. Strange!

We thought the Fantastic Forces Vet was great, but as my October review shows (http://www.pojo.com/heroclix/COTD/2008/Oct/23.shtml), this version from Secret Invasion is better. Here's why:

1. 18 DV.

It's the new elite DV number and it's good that the Dr. has it, especially paired with...

2. ...Defend.

Being able to share that number with fellows who sport Stealth or ESD (or both) is key. Particularly when he's got...

3. ...Built-in Trick Shot PLUS.

He can see through all except walls and blocking, and it's an uncounterable trait. Better still, he can ignore LOF for non-attack options such as his...

4. ...Perplex-plus.

Not only does he have Perplex, but he can potentially boost or nerf stats +/-2. And it qualifies him to use Brilliant Tactician -- without most of the usual LOF issues -- thanks to...

5. ...Outwit.

A simple push, and you've got a guy who can Outwit Stealth, among other things.

6. He's a Wildcard.

Just to make him even more flexible.

7. Flight.

For carrying around the meat shields he can shoot past.

8. Phasing/Teleport.

Just when you thought you finally had him tied up, there he goes, buh-bye.

9. Effective 4+ damage.

Actually, he's got 3 damage but with his Perplex-plus, he's likely hitting for more. Since he's probably not bothering to pump his already high 11 AV, y'know.

10. 10 range.

He can stay far back and take you on.

Really, Strange is kind of a perfect storm of a piece that can anchor a NASTY assortment of builds. Perma-Stealth him with Bat Allies. Juice up his range powers with SHIELD and PD. Tank him up with GLC. Mystics. Etc. It's why he's so high on the list; no other figure here so far can so thoroughly dictate a match just by its presence. Sorcerer Supreme, indeed.

Well, actually, there IS another piece that rivals him in that department. Be here next time to see it...