IGN exclusively unveils Image Comics' latest creation: Free Planet, a sprawling space opera blending East Meets West aesthetics with the epic scope of Dune. Sci-fi enthusiasts should definitely add this to their must-read list.

Explore the exclusive first look at Free Planet #1 in the slideshow below:

Free Planet #1: Exclusive Preview

10 Images

Free Planet, written by Aubrey Sitterson (No One Left to Fight) and illustrated by Jed Dougherty (Savage Hearts), boasts covers by Dougherty and Fico Ossio. Image Comics describes the series as follows:

Humanity's first truly free planet celebrates its hard-won independence. However, a band of revolutionary heroes must now defend its unique energy source from two warring intergalactic empires, all while grappling with the true meaning of freedom. SITTERSON and DOUGHERTY masterfully combine the intricate history of EAST OF WEST with the emotional depth of SAGA in a narrative exploring freedom and its inherent sacrifices.

Sitterson shared with IGN: " Free Planet represents the future of comics, Jed and I striving to elevate the medium with a truly literary comic, visually showcasing its rich complexity. From intense military action to intricate political maneuvering and heartbreaking personal drama, every page is packed with visual detail; we're delivering exceptional value, a book designed for slow, repeated readings. It's a profound exploration of what everyone, regardless of their political stance, deeply desires: Freedom. Its home at Image Comics is fitting, a publisher founded on granting creators the freedom to produce their most personal, unconstrained work."

Dougherty added: "Aubrey and I have collaborated on fantasy and comedic projects. Free Planet marks our venture into a more serious work: a conflicted revolutionary force defending their planet's resources against interstellar threats. Complementing the intricate script, I've refined my art style with a grittier aesthetic and experimented with page layouts and graphic elements. Drawing this book has brought the diverse cast of characters to life as they fight on land and in space, rebuild society from the ashes of revolution, and pursue vengeance, justice, and even love."

Free Planet #1 launches Wednesday, May 7th.

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