In the climactic battle of “Avengers: Endgame,” Tony Stark’s heroic snap was the key to defeating Thanos and his army. But what if Captain America had performed the snap instead? While Captain America is a beloved and powerful hero, his attempt at wielding the Infinity Gauntlet would not have gone as smoothly as Tony’s. Here’s why.
The Importance of Iron Man’s Armor
Tony Stark’s ability to hold the power of the Infinity Stones for even a brief moment was largely due to his advanced and durable Iron Man armor. This suit wasn’t just any ordinary protection; it was designed to absorb and distribute the immense energy of the stones. When Tony wielded the Power Stone earlier in the movie, his armor played a crucial role in preventing immediate incineration.
During the snap, you can see how the energy is being distributed throughout Tony’s suit. This distribution is critical because it means the armor is taking on the brunt of the energy, allowing Tony to survive long enough to complete the snap. The suit, however, is visibly being destroyed in the process, showcasing the overwhelming power of the Infinity Stones.
Captain America’s Limitations
In contrast, Captain America, while extraordinarily strong and resilient, is still fundamentally human. He is at the peak of human performance, thanks to the Super Soldier Serum, but he lacks the necessary durability to withstand the energy of the Infinity Stones. Unlike Tony, Cap does not have an advanced suit of armor to protect him.
If Captain America had attempted to wear the Infinity Gauntlet and perform the snap, the outcome would have been dire. The immense power of the stones would likely have incinerated him almost immediately. The Infinity Gauntlet is not designed for mortals, and without the technological protection Tony had, Cap would not have stood a chance.
The Heroism of Sacrifice
Both heroes embody selflessness and bravery, but their strengths are different. Tony’s intellect and technological prowess allowed him to create a suit capable of enduring the snap, at least momentarily. Captain America’s heroism is defined by his unwavering moral compass and physical prowess, but in this scenario, those qualities wouldn’t have been enough to save him from the lethal power of the Infinity Stones.
In conclusion, while Captain America is an iconic and powerful Avenger, the unique circumstances of the snap required Iron Man’s specific strengths. Tony Stark’s armor and technological expertise were crucial in wielding the Infinity Stones, making him the only one capable of performing the snap and saving the universe.
