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

IGN exclusively unveils Image Comics' latest creation: Free Planet, a sprawling space opera blending Eastern and Western influences, reminiscent of Dune. Sci-fi enthusiasts should definitely add this to their must-read list.

Explore the exclusive preview of Free Planet #1 in the slideshow below:

Free Planet #1: Exclusive First Look

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. Now, a band of revolutionary heroes must safeguard the planet's unique energy source from two hostile galactic empires, all while grappling with the true meaning of freedom. SITTERSON and DOUGHERTY expertly blend the intricate history of EAST OF WEST with the emotional depth of SAGA, creating a narrative about freedom and the sacrifices it demands.

Sitterson shared with IGN, " Free Planet represents the future of comics – Jed and I aimed to elevate the medium with a truly literary comic, its rich complexity showcased visually. From intense military action to intricate political maneuvering and deeply emotional 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, regardless of their political stance, truly desires: Freedom."

Dougherty added, "Aubrey and I have collaborated on fantasy and comedic works. Free Planet marks our venture into a more serious project: revolutionaries defending their planet's resources against interstellar threats. To complement the intricate script, I've refined my art style with a grittier tone, experimenting with page layouts and visual elements. The diverse cast has truly come alive for me as they fight across land and space, rebuild their society, and pursue vengeance, justice, and even love."

Free Planet #1 launches Wednesday, May 7th.

For more comic book news, explore the anticipated releases from Marvel and DC in 2025.