Warning: This article contains SPOILERS for Invincible season 4, episode 4, “Hurm.”

Throughout Invincible‘s three and a half seasons, Mark has undergone plenty of changes. Be it his physical power, his outlook on heroism, or his personal relationships, the protagonist’s journey has been far from straightforward and continues to evolve, hence adopting a new costume to signify his more mature mindset in season 3.

However, alongside the blue and black outfit reflecting Mark’s mental shift, it also acted as a tonal deviation. Ever since he began flaunting this new look, his story has only gotten darker, and while Mark is arguably a better hero in Invincible season 4 based on his personal sacrifices and survival instincts, his growth hasn’t come without consequences.

This new side of him has taken its toll, resulting in him second-guessing many decisions and reflecting deeply on his actions. As a result, a change was inevitable, and after the events of “Hurm”, the hero eventually decided to return to his roots, which could prove important come his impending confrontation with Thragg as season 4 progresses.

Mark’s Regret Over Killing Rus Livingston Made Him Feel Unworthy Of His New Costume

While killing Rus wasn’t the only incident that contributed to Mark needing a change, it was certainly the biggest factor, as he no longer felt worthy of the new costume. Considering it was supposed to be a sign of maturity and greater heroics, killing an innocent civilian while wearing these colors felt completely wrong, and his mental battles only worsened.

Choking Dinosaurus while in his harmless human form, alongside needing Oliver to stop him from beating Titan to death, proves he is far from the right frame of mind currently. Technically, this anger and viciousness could be a valuable weapon against the Viltrumites during Invincible‘s upcoming war, but it’s simply not who Mark wants to be going forward.

Therefore, he decided to return the costume to Art, as the trauma he endured while wearing it had altered him, meaning he is no longer the hero he vowed to be. Although Art didn’t quite see things the same way and felt his remorse was a good sign, he ultimately provided a powerful pep talk that resonated with the protagonist.

Art’s Advice Made The Old Costume Feel Like Mark Returning To His Roots

Despite being unsuccessful in his attempt to make Mark change his mind about giving up the blue and black suit, Art did have his original costume at the ready for a time like this. Ever the voice of wisdom, Art told Mark that he’s nothing like his dad based on the fact that his acts of violence were eating him up inside.

He mentioned that Omni-Man was never worried that he was making mistakes, proving that Mark’s guilt is a sign of humanity, not the opposite. Additionally, Art understood the young hero’s perspective and why he didn’t want to use the new outfit, offering him his old one back as a chance to remember who he is.

Claiming, “You’re still the kid who came in here wanting to make the world a better place,” it’s clear that Art still sees Mark as someone trying to fight for good, despite making difficult choices. While his speech didn’t completely flip Invincible’s perspective on everything, it did offer some comfort and made the original design feel like a return to his roots.

Mark’s Time In Hell Gave Him A New Perspective On Life

Before getting a chance to officially make this costume switch, Mark was called for a job then subsequently summoned to Hell by Damien Darkblood. On paper, it was the last place he wanted to be, as he was surrounded by demons and other monsters, yet it actually wound up providing a new perspective on everything.

After Invincible season 3’s finale teased demons and Hell, this brand-new storyline helped flesh out Mark’s transition back to the old suit. Once again, he defeated a powerful enemy, but by taking down Volcanikka, he showed that he was able to do good even in a dark place like the underworld, all while avoiding yet another catastrophe for Earth.

Understandably, Mark was eager to leave Hell, but his first scene once surfacing involved him taking his old suit and flying around with a smile on his face. Sure, he’s still far from being OK, especially with Nolan returning to Earth for the first time since season 1’s finale, but his experience in Hell strangely provided some clarity.

As a result, Art’s advice, combined with his latest mission, helped Mark see that he’s still on the right path, but taking a step back and embracing where his journey started was necessary, hence why he returned to his original costume in Invincible season 4.

Release Date

March 26, 2021

Network

Amazon Prime Video