The Impenetrable Monolith: Molecule Man and His Defenders

Marvel's cosmic landscape has seen its fair share of titanic battles and powerful beings, but one character that has always stood out is Owen Reese, known as Molecule Man. In Secret Wars 1 and 2, Owen Reese, Molecule Man, ascends to godhood, wielding the power to manipulate matter and bend reality itself. In this article, we explore the extraordinary abilities of Molecule Man and the few beings or circumstances that can potentially challenge him.

Origins of a God-like Being

During an explosion in Lab 87, a cosmic upheaval occurred that caught the attention of Beyonder, a nascent god existing outside the Marvel Universe. This connection to the Beyond Realm was pivotal in unlocking Owen Reese's true potential. Despite initial hesitation, Beyonder's arrival marked the beginning of Molecule Man's rise to prominence.

However, it wasn't until Doctor Doom removed the mental blocks that inhibited Molecule Man's full potential that he realized just how powerful he truly was. In Jim Shooter's cosmology, Molecule Man is dubbed the most powerful being in the Marvel Universe, dwarfing even the likes of the Living Tribunal, Death, Eternity, Master Order, and Lord Chaos.

Supreme Beyonder: A Match for Even Molecule Man

In the context of Secret Wars 1 and 2, the only known being capable of truly standing against Molecule Man is an earlier incarnation of Beyonder. Described by Shooter as the second most powerful being in existence, Beyonder's overwhelming might was only too evident when Molecule Man had the opportunity to defeat him by striking him as a mortal infant. This showcases the immense power differential between the two entities.

Volcana: Molecule Man's Triumphant Love Interest

Molecule Man's girlfriend, Volcana, holds a significant place in his life. She is not just a love interest but often the instigator behind his actions. Her influence and guidance played a crucial role in Molecule Man's evolution from a villain to a force for good, making her a formidable ally in his battles.

Heroics and Plot Armor: Limiting Factors

Molecule Man's desire for a normal life with Volcana and his reluctance to engage in long-term heroics also play a role in his limitations. These personal desires often lead to moments of vulnerability, such as during his final confrontation with Beyonder. Additionally, the concept of plot armor can render Molecule Man fragile against unexpected or illogical challenges, further complicating any attempts to defeat him.

The One Above All: Marvel's Apex of Power

When considering beings from different cosmologies, the Most High God, or The One Above All, represents the ultimate potential in the Marvel Universe. This entity, equivalent to the Supreme Beings in the Vertigo/DC universe, holds power comparable to Lucifer Morningstar and Michael Demiurgos. In terms of power, Molecule Man was second only to this figure, making the One Above All the ultimate challenge for any cosmic entity.

To summarize, the only beings capable of defeating Molecule Man in the context of Secret Wars 1 and 2 are:

Pre-Retcon Beyonder - The most powerful being in the Marvel Universe. Volcana - His girlfriend, who holds significant sway over his actions. Heroics - Molecule Man's reluctance to engage in long-term heroics can lead to moments of vulnerability. Plot Armor - A concept that can render Molecule Man susceptible to challenges that don't align with the narrative. The One Above All - This being represents the apex of power in the Marvel Universe, making it the ultimate challenge.

Molecule Man's extraordinary transformations and conflicts reflect the intricate balance of power within the Marvel universe, adding layers of complexity to his legacy.