In this episode of Invincible, we’re introduced to a new villain, PowerPlex (Scott Duvall), whose backstory offers a deeper look at the darker side of being a hero. The show continues its balance of humor and grounded realism, offering a thoughtful exploration of how a regular person with minimal powers can be driven to villainy—echoing Mark's own journey. This episode provides a powerful insight into the complex dynamics of both heroes and villains, adding a moral layer to Mark’s character arc, and offers exciting teases for the upcoming Invincible War.
The episode begins with Scott Duvall, his sister Jessica, and niece Gretchen enjoying a birthday outing at a park. Scott demonstrates his electrical powers for Gretchen before heading out for coffee. But when he returns, disaster strikes. An explosion devastates the area, and Scott believes he sees Invincible trying to save what he assumes is Jessica’s body amidst the wreckage, leading him to despair.
Later, Scott attempts to seek justice for the lives lost in the aftermath, petitioning District Attorney Barnett to file charges against Invincible. However, he’s told that Invincible was only defending Earth from an alien threat, and no regular laws apply in such situations. Returning to his work at the GDA, Scott continues to obsess over the tragedy, driven by his grief.
Meanwhile, Invincible trains his younger brother, Oliver, alongside Eve. Oliver questions whether people will ever forget the good things about their father, Omni-Man, who once showed love for their family before trying to take over Earth. Mark and Eve try to help Oliver understand that Omni-Man’s actions have defined his legacy, despite any positive memories.
Scott’s grief leads him down a dangerous path as he begins to transform into PowerPlex. With the help of his wife, Becky, he enhances his powers using experimental electrical disks. Though deeply torn by the need for revenge, he prepares to confront Invincible, marking a turning point in his moral descent.
At a family dinner, Mark and Eve share a quiet moment with Oliver, Paul, and Debbie. Meanwhile, PowerPlex begins to test his newfound abilities, eventually taking to the streets, demanding Invincible's attention. During a confrontation with Shapesmith, PowerPlex’s powers escalate dangerously, causing significant collateral damage and injuring his opponent.
Later, PowerPlex returns home to his wife and son, but his anger causes him to lash out in front of them, unintentionally terrifying his son. This sets the stage for his inevitable clash with Invincible.
As the episode progresses, PowerPlex interrupts a memorial for the victims of the Chicago destruction caused by Omni-Man. The Graysons attend, and Eve prepares to take on PowerPlex herself. The Guardians of the Globe also join the fray but are unable to subdue the enraged villain, who narrowly escapes custody and returns to his family.
Mark, struggling with guilt over the victims of previous battles, feels a personal responsibility for Scott’s actions. Donald from the GDA secretly provides Mark with information about PowerPlex, hinting at more danger to come.
In the episode's climax, Mark meets with PowerPlex, apologizing for the pain Scott has endured. Despite his best intentions, Mark tries to protect Scott’s family from the inevitable violence. But after an intense battle, PowerPlex’s electricity overwhelms Invincible, killing Becky and Jack. In a heart-wrenching moment, Mark is forced to subdue PowerPlex by absorbing the villain’s power, ultimately taking him to GDA custody.
Back at home, Mark is unable to shake the horrors of what happened, leading to a quiet moment with Eve on the roof, while a mysterious spy orb watches them from the distance. The orb, belonging to Angstrom Levy, hints at the coming storm—the Invincible War is on the horizon.
This episode masterfully explores the blurred line between hero and villain, showing how circumstances can turn someone like Scott Duvall into a deadly adversary. With PowerPlex’s tragic backstory, we see the deeper struggles of Invincible and the consequences of his actions. The emotional stakes are high, and with the shadow of Angstrom Levy’s army looming, the stage is set for an epic confrontation ahead. Invincible continues to deliver gripping, emotionally charged storytelling with this excellent episode.
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