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

IGN exclusively unveils Image Comics' newest creation: Free Planet, a sprawling 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

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 hard-won independence. But a band of revolutionary heroes must now shield the planet's unique energy source from two hostile galactic forces, all while grappling with the true meaning of freedom. SITTERSON and DOUGHERTY masterfully combine 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 strive to elevate our medium with a truly literary comic, its rich complexity brought to life visually. From intense military action to intricate political maneuvering and heartbreaking personal drama, every page is packed with visual detail; it's a book designed for slow, repeated readings. It's a complex meditation on what everyone, regardless of political leaning, deeply desires: Freedom. Its home at Image Comics, a publisher founded on granting creators the freedom to produce their most personal and unfettered work, is perfectly fitting."

Dougherty added, "Aubrey and I have collaborated on fantasy and comedic projects. Free Planet marks our foray into a more serious work: a conflicted revolutionary force defending their planet's resources against interstellar threats. To match the intricate script, I've refined my art style with a grittier tone, experimenting with page layouts and graphic elements. While creating this book, the diverse cast has come alive for me – their battles on land and in space, their societal rebuilding, their quests for vengeance, justice, and even love."

Free Planet #1 launches Wednesday, May 7th.

For further updates on the comic book scene, explore what's anticipated from Marvel and DC in 2025.