 | |
| Fantasti-Flare | |
| Type: | Technology |
| Continuity: | Marvel Universe |
| Availability: | Unique item |
| Manufacturer: | Reed Richards |
| 1st appearance: | Fantastic Four, Vol. 1 #1 |
The Fantasti-Flare is a fictional item featured in comic books published by Marvel Comics. It was part of the mainstream Marvel Universe and first appeared in Fantastic Four, Volume 1 #1.
Description & History[]
The Fantasti-Flare was a non-weaponized pyrotechnic projection system built by scientist Reed Richards and utilized by Reed and his teammates in the Fantastic Four.
The Fantasti-Flare looked and operated similarly to a regular flare gun, but it had the additional characteristics of being able to create the flaming shape of a number four whenever the flare reached it's zenith. This was done to alert members of the Fantastic Four that an emergency had arisen that required their attention. The flare was bright enough that it could be clearly seen in the sky - even in the middle of broad daylight. In the early days of the FF's career, this was the quickest means of signaling them that trouble was afoot.
Normally, Reed Richards was the one using the flare gun, but over time, all members of the group needed to use it at some point or another. Johnny Storm likely used it the least of anybody, preferring instead to create his own flaming 4 in the sky with his pyrokinetic abilities.
The Fantasti-Flare was first used on the team's inaugural mission after Reed discovered that a series of mysterious cave-ins were responsible for the destruction of several atomic research plants across the globe. After issuing the signal, the other members of the team had to curtail their personal business and race back to their HQ in Central City. [1]
When Susan Richards was attacked by an earth elemental at Casa Tindolini, she tried to get to the Fantasti-Flare to warn the others, but it was locked inside her purse and she was unable to reach it when the monster attacked. [2]
Appearances[]
- Fantastic Four 232 (Behind the scenes only)