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

IGN exclusively unveils Image Comics' newest venture: Free Planet, an epic space opera. Image positions the series as a captivating blend of East of West and Dune, a must-read for any sci-fi enthusiast.

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

Free Planet #1: Exclusive Comic Book Preview

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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's official synopsis:

Humanity's first truly free planet celebrates its hard-won independence. Now, revolutionary heroes must safeguard its unique energy source from hostile intergalactic forces while grappling with the true meaning of freedom. SITTERSON and DOUGHERTY seamlessly merge the intricate historical tapestry of EAST OF WEST with the emotional depth of SAGA in a narrative exploring freedom's price.

Sitterson shared with IGN: " Free Planet represents the future of comics, Jed and I striving to elevate our craft with a truly literary comic, its rich complexity brought to life visually. From intense military action to intricate political maneuvering and poignant personal drama, every page is packed with visual detail; it's a book designed for slow, repeated readings. It's a complex exploration of what everyone desires, regardless of their political stance: Freedom. Its home at Image Comics, a publisher championing creator freedom, is fitting."

Dougherty added: "Aubrey and I have collaborated on fantasy and comedic works. Free Planet marks our foray into a more serious project: revolutionaries defending their planet's resources against interstellar threats. My art style reflects the intricate script, incorporating grittier tones, experimental layouts, and graphical elements. The diverse cast has come alive as I've depicted their battles on land and in space, their societal rebuilding, and their quests for vengeance, justice, and even love."

Free Planet #1 launches Wednesday, May 7. For more comic book news, explore Marvel's and DC's 2025 plans.