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 sci-fi enthusiasts.

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 hard-won independence. However, a band of revolutionary heroes must safeguard the planet's unique energy source from two hostile galactic empires while grappling with the true meaning of freedom. SITTERSON and DOUGHERTY seamlessly blend the intricate historical tapestry of EAST OF WEST with the emotional depth of SAGA in a narrative exploring freedom and its inherent sacrifices.

Sitterson shared with IGN: " Free Planet represents the future of comics, Jed and I striving to elevate our craft with a truly literary comic, visually rich and complex. From intense military action to intricate political maneuvering and poignant personal drama, every page is packed with visual detail; a book designed for slow, repeated readings. It's a profound exploration of what everyone desires, regardless of political affiliation: Freedom. Its home at Image Comics, a publisher dedicated to creator freedom, is perfectly fitting."

Dougherty added: "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 against interstellar threats. Mirroring the intricate script, my artwork incorporates grittier tones, experimental layouts, and graphic elements. The diverse cast has come alive as I've drawn their struggles on land and in space, their societal rebuilding, and their quests for 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.