War Machine (James Rupert Rhoes) is a fictional character, a comic book superhero from the Marvel Comics universe. The character first appeared in Iron Man #118 (January 1979), and was created by David Michelinie and Bob Layton. Initially a supporting character, Rhodes later assumed the mantle of Iron Man after Stark's lapse into alcoholism. The character would continue in a supporting role, and later resume the role of Iron Man, following Stark's purported death. After Stark's return to the role of Iron Man, Rhodes continued as a superhero and received a spin-off titled War Machine. In addition to being an accomplished pilot, mechanical engineer and businessman, Rhodes derives multiple abilities from various hi-tech powersuits, either designed by Stark Industries or extraterrestrial in nature. Rhodes and Stark are often portrayed as devout friends, though the relationship is strained by Rhodes' continued doubts over Stark's questionable ethics. In addition to being a supporting character in Iron Man and his own eponymous title, Rhodes has been featured in a self titled MAX series and ensemble titles: Force Works; Sentinel Squad O*N*E; The Crew; and Avengers: The Initiative. War Machine has been a featured character in the Iron Man animated series and The Invincible Iron Man.