Free Planet Preview: East of West Meets Dune in New Epic Space Opera

IGN exclusively reveals Image Comics' latest project: Free Planet, an epic space opera blending East-meets-West aesthetics with the scope of Dune. A must-read for sci-fi fans.

Check out the slideshow gallery below for an exclusive first look at Free Planet #1:

Free Planet #1: Exclusive Comic Book 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:

The first completely free planet in human history has won its independence. Now, revolutionary heroes must defend its unique energy source from hostile intergalactic powers, while grappling with the true meaning of freedom. SITTERSON and DOUGHERTY blend the intricate future history of EAST OF WEST with the emotional space opera of SAGA in a story about freedom and its sacrifices.

"Free Planet represents the future of comics," Sitterson explains to IGN. "Jed and I aimed to elevate the medium with a truly literary comic, rich in visual complexity. From intense military action to intricate geopolitics and heart-wrenching drama, every page is packed with detail; a book meant for slow, repeated readings. It's a complex exploration of what everyone desires: freedom. It's fitting Free Planet found a home at Image Comics, a publisher championing creator freedom."

Dougherty adds, "Aubrey and I have collaborated on fantasy and comedic works. Free Planet is our foray into a serious story: revolutionaries defending their planet's resources. My art reflects the script's richness, with grittier tones, experimental layouts, and graphical elements. The diverse cast has come alive as they fight, rebuild, and seek vengeance, justice, and love."

Free Planet #1 releases Wednesday, May 7.

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