Beyond Good and Evil (Part 4) stands as a climactic conclusion to the intense four-part storyline that has pushed the X-Men to their limits. This episode not only wraps up the epic tale but also ties together various themes that have been explored throughout the series. Originally designed to be the grand finale of the X-Men animated series, this episode brings a sense of closure and resolution to the high-stakes narrative that has captivated fans.

The themes of destiny, sacrifice, and the battle between good and evil are central to this episode. The X-Men must face the ultimate challenge as they confront Apocalypse, who seeks to reshape the universe in his image. The stakes have never been higher, and the X-Men’s resolve is put to the test as they fight to protect the fabric of time itself. The episode delves into the complexities of free will versus predestination, highlighting the characters’ struggles to overcome their predetermined fates and make their own choices.

A significant highlight of this episode is the unity and teamwork displayed by the X-Men. Characters who have been at odds throughout the series come together with a common goal, showcasing the power of collaboration and mutual trust. The inclusion of fan-favourite characters, such as Cable and Psylocke, adds to the excitement and emotional depth of the story. Their contributions are pivotal in the final showdown against Apocalypse, emphasizing the importance of diverse abilities and perspectives in overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Beyond Good and Evil (Part 4) is a fitting culmination of an intricate and action-packed arc, bringing both satisfaction and reflection to long-time fans. The episode’s exploration of profound themes, combined with its thrilling narrative and character development, makes it a standout chapter in the X-Men series.

As Bishop and Bender observe the unfolding events from the Axis of Time, the X-Men continue their fierce battle in Ancient Egypt. With Professor X and Wolverine already captured by Apocalypse, Cable takes decisive action by throwing a grenade at the villain’s ‘Lazarus Chamber‘, obliterating it. However, Apocalypse reveals a shocking twist: he no longer needs the chamber for sustenance as he is now sustained by the Axis of Time itself.

Encased within the Axis of Time alongside other captive psychics, Professor X manages to discreetly activate a homing device, alerting the X-Men to their location. Apocalypse then unveils his grand scheme – to harness the combined power of the psychics to recreate the universe in his image. As the villain begins sending the imprisoned psychics up to a column of light, Bishop watches from afar. In a surprising turn of events, Magneto and Mystique decide to turn against Apocalypse. They temporarily gain the upper hand, with Magneto even contemplating recreating the universe himself. However, both are swiftly defeated by Mister Sinister and the Nasty Boys.

Magneto makes a bold move to free Wolverine, hoping to take down Apocalypse together. Unfortunately, their efforts are in vain as they too are overpowered. Cable arrives at the Axis, guided by Xavier‘s signal, but is quickly knocked out by Apocalypse. As segments of history begin to blink out of existence, Bishop takes aim at the tubes containing the psychics. He manages to free Psylocke and sets about freeing the others, which disrupts the time-erasing energies. In the ensuing chaos, Wolverine and Mister Sinister clash within the castle, inadvertently destroying machinery and thwarting Apocalypse’s plan.

With the Axis of Time collapsing on itself, the freed psychics join forces to trap Apocalypse in the real world, severing his connection to the Lazarus Chamber. Bishop, Shard, and Cable return to their respective timelines, and the X-Men make their way back home. Once everyone has departed, Bender reveals his true identity as Immortus and begins the process of rebuilding the Axis of Time.

Magneto saving Wolverine’s life in this episode, and his betrayal of Apocalypse, mark his change from villain to some-what hero, a theme that will plague him in the series finale Graduation Day and come to the forefront in X-Men ’97‘s Mutant Liberation Begins, where he stands trial. Compare this Magneto to the one from Enter Magneto. Now that’s character development!

The Mojoverse is briefly seen as one of the dimensions affected by Apocalypse’s tampering. Despite being seemingly destroyed in this episode, Apocalypse finds a physical body to possess in The Fifth Horseman.

Psychics galore in this episode, as Apocalypse finally enacts his plan! They include; Cable’s clone Stryfe, Rogue’s mama Destiny, Rachel Summers, Emma Frost, Typhoid Mary, Avenger Moondragon, Mastermind and Yarnak amongst others.

Bender is actually Immortus, the Avengers time-traveling villain who first appeared in Avengers #10.

THE END IS PREPARED FOR..?

Originally written as a four part finale to the series, the plans for Beyond Good and Evil were changed when Marvel ordered a further ten episodes. These ten episodes were made by a different studio by the time it came to production and the final five episodes have vastly different animation.

The original ending was explained by Eric Lewald in his book, Previously on X-Men:

“Here, for the first time, is a short description of how X-Men: TAS was meant to end:

1) Professor Xavier announces that the X-Men have “graduated,” having learned all they can from him. He is leaving to form a new school for kids (a tie-in with Marvel’s ideas for their new “Generation X” book).
2) Jubilee decided to go with him.
3) Scott and Jean, newly married, decide to leave to start a family.
4) In some drafts, Storm decides to go as well or dies in battle.
5) Bishop and Shard, time travellers stranded in the present day, prove themselves to the X-Men and are asked to join.
6) Once discouraged and dissolute Archangel, inspired by idealistic Psylocke (!), asks to contribute his billions to mutant causes. He and Psylocke, having helped defeat Apocalypse, are asked to join him.”

Below is some art that was created for a potential sixth season had the show continued, including potential new recruits Havok and Sunfire, as well as Psylocke and Archangel.

Beyond Good and Evil (Part 3): The Lazarus Chamber | The Phalanx Covenant (Part 1)