IGN exclusively unveils Image Comics' newest venture: Free Planet, a sprawling space opera blending Eastern and Western influences reminiscent of Dune. Sci-fi enthusiasts won't want to miss this one.

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. A band of revolutionary heroes must now safeguard the planet's unique energy source from hostile intergalactic forces, all while grappling with the true meaning of freedom. SITTERSON (No One Left to Fight, The Comic Book Story of Professional Wrestling) and DOUGHERTY (Savage Hearts, Worlds’ Finest) fuse the intricate historical tapestry of EAST OF WEST with the emotional depth of SAGA, crafting a narrative about freedom and its inherent sacrifices.

Sitterson states, " Free Planet represents the future of comics – Jed and I strive to elevate our medium with a truly literary comic, showcasing rich complexity through visuals. From intense military action to intricate geopolitical maneuvering and heartbreaking drama, every page is visually dense; offering exceptional value and rewarding multiple readings. It's a profound exploration of what everyone desires, regardless of political stance: Freedom. Image Comics, a publisher dedicated to creator freedom, is the perfect home for this project."

Dougherty adds, "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 from interstellar threats. My art style reflects the intricate script, incorporating grittier tones and experimental page layouts and graphics. The diverse cast has come alive for me as they fight across land and space, rebuild society, and pursue vengeance, justice, and even love."

Free Planet #1 launches Wednesday, May 7.

Stay tuned for more comic book news, including Marvel and DC's 2025 plans.