July 15, 2025: Out of the 15 Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films released since 2021, only one movie breaks away from the larger multiverse storyline leading into Avengers: Doomsday—and that’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.
As Marvel Studios continues to build momentum toward Avengers: Doomsday—set to be the most ambitious team-up film since Avengers: Endgame—nearly every Phase 4, 5, and early Phase 6 entry has featured setups, cameos, or plot elements linking directly to the upcoming multiversal showdown.
However, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 uniquely sets itself apart. Directed by James Gunn in his final Marvel project before his full-time shift to DC Studios, the film opts for a self-contained narrative that wraps up the Guardians’ emotional journey rather than expanding the multiverse arc.
A Standalone Story in a Multiversal Saga
While other MCU films introduced new heroes (Shang-Chi), expanded the multiverse (Doctor Strange 2, Spider-Man: No Way Home), or teased major players (Eternals, The Marvels, Captain America: Brave New World), Guardians Vol. 3 remained character-focused and grounded in its own world.
Notably, the film:
- Does not explore multiversal elements
- Avoids introducing or setting up new characters for future Avengers teams
- Concludes major storylines for Rocket, Peter Quill, and Drax
This makes it the only Multiverse Saga movie that neither builds up Avengers: Doomsday nor features any of its known cast members or connected storylines.
Every Other MCU Film Since 2021 Ties Into Avengers: Doomsday
Here’s how other films connect:
- Black Widow introduced Yelena and Red Guardian (now part of the New Avengers).
- Shang-Chi and Eternals teased future Avengers roles and multiversal tech.
- Spider-Man: No Way Home began the exploration of variants.
- Doctor Strange 2 went deeper into multiversal threats.
- The Marvels, Deadpool & Wolverine, and Thunderbolts built toward X-Men and Doom.
- Captain America: Brave New World established Sam Wilson’s leadership of the new team.
- Even the upcoming Fantastic Four: First Steps and Spider-Man: Brand New Day are heavily tied to Doomsday.
Guardians 3: A Deliberate Departure
The decision to isolate Guardians Vol. 3 from the wider saga was intentional. Gunn wanted to conclude the trilogy without the burden of setting up future crossovers. So far, no Guardians members have been confirmed for Avengers: Doomsday, making it an outlier in a heavily connected cinematic universe.
As Marvel heads toward its next cinematic climax, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 may be remembered not just as a farewell—but as a rare MCU film that chose finality over future-building.