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

IGN exclusively unveils Image Comics' newest creation: Free Planet, an epic space opera. Image positions the series as a compelling blend of East of West and Dune, a must-read for any sci-fi enthusiast.

Explore the slideshow below for an exclusive first look at Free Planet #1:

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. Now, revolutionary heroes must safeguard the planet's unique energy source from hostile intergalactic forces, while grappling with the true meaning of freedom. SITTERSON and DOUGHERTY masterfully weave the intricate history of EAST OF WEST with the emotional depth of SAGA in a tale of freedom's profound cost.

Sitterson shares, " Free Planet represents the future of comics, Jed and I striving to elevate our medium with a truly literary comic, its rich complexity brought to life visually. From intense military action to intricate geopolitics and poignant drama, every page is packed with visual detail; a book designed for slow, repeated readings. It's a complex exploration of what everyone desires—freedom—regardless of their political stance. Its home at Image Comics, a publisher championing creator freedom, is fitting."

Dougherty adds, "Aubrey and I have collaborated on fantasy and comedic works. Free Planet marks our foray into a more serious narrative: revolutionaries defending their planet's resources against interstellar threats. My art reflects the script's richness, featuring grittier rendering and innovative page layouts. The diverse characters have come alive as they fight across land and space, rebuild society, and pursue vengeance, justice, and even love."

Free Planet #1 launches Wednesday, May 7th.

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