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

IGN exclusively unveils Image Comics' newest venture: Free Planet, a sprawling space opera blending East Meets West aesthetics with the epic scope of Dune. This sci-fi saga is a must-read for any genre 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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Penned by Aubrey Sitterson (No One Left to Fight) and illustrated by Jed Dougherty (Savage Hearts), the debut issue boasts covers by Dougherty and Fico Ossio. Image Comics describes the series as follows:

"The first truly free planet in human history has achieved independence. A band of revolutionary heroes must now protect the planet's unique energy source from two hostile intergalactic forces, 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) seamlessly blend the intricate historical backdrop of EAST OF WEST with the emotional depth of SAGA, crafting a narrative about freedom and its inherent sacrifices."

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 and complex geopolitical maneuvering to emotionally resonant drama, every page is packed with visual detail; we deliver exceptional value, creating a book meant for slow, repeated readings. It's a profound exploration of what everyone, regardless of their political stance, deeply desires: Freedom. Its home at Image Comics is fitting, a publisher founded on granting creators the freedom to produce their most personal and unfettered work."

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. Mirroring the intricate script, my art style incorporates grittier shading and experimental page layouts and graphic elements. While creating this book, the diverse cast of characters has come alive as they fight on land and in space, rebuild a society from the ashes of revolution, and pursue vengeance, justice, and even love."

Free Planet #1 launches Wednesday, May 7th.

For further updates on the comic book scene, explore our previews of Marvel's and DC's 2025 plans.