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 fusion 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 gallery below:

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's official synopsis:

Humanity's first truly free planet celebrates its independence. Revolutionary heroes must now safeguard its unique energy source from warring intergalactic forces, while grappling with the true meaning of freedom. SITTERSON and DOUGHERTY blend the intricate history of EAST OF WEST with the emotional scope of SAGA in a narrative exploring freedom's cost.

Sitterson shared with IGN: " Free Planet represents the future of comics – Jed and I aimed to elevate the medium with a truly literary comic, visually showcasing its rich complexity. From intense military action to intricate political maneuvering and heartbreaking 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 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 projects. Free Planet marks our foray into a more serious work: revolutionaries defending their planet's resources against interstellar threats. My art reflects the intricate script, employing grittier rendering and experimental page layouts. The diverse characters have come alive as they battle across land and space, rebuild their society, and pursue vengeance, justice, and even love."

Free Planet #1 launches Wednesday, May 7.

For further comic book news, explore Marvel's and DC's 2025 plans.