Free Planet: Epic Space Opera Melds Dune & East of West

IGN exclusively unveils Image Comics' newest venture: 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 gallery below:

Free Planet #1: Exclusive Comic Book Preview

10 Images

Free Planet, penned 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. A band of revolutionary heroes must now safeguard the planet's unique energy source from two hostile galactic forces, while grappling with the true meaning of unfettered freedom. SITTERSON (No One Left to Fight, The Comic Book Story of Professional Wrestling) and DOUGHERTY (Savage Hearts, Worlds’ Finest) seamlessly merge the intricate historical tapestry of EAST OF WEST with the emotional depth of SAGA in a narrative exploring freedom and its inherent sacrifices.

"This comic represents the future of the medium," Sitterson shares with IGN. "Jed and I aimed to elevate our craft with a truly literary comic, its rich complexity brought to life visually. From intense military action to intricate political maneuvering and emotionally resonant drama, every page is packed with visual detail; we're delivering exceptional value, a book meant for slow, repeated readings. It's a profound exploration of what everyone, regardless of their political stance, deeply desires: Freedom. It's fitting that Free Planet found a home at Image Comics, a publisher dedicated to empowering creators with the freedom to produce their most personal and uncompromised work."

Dougherty adds, "Aubrey and I have collaborated on fantasy and comedic projects. Free Planet marks our venture into a more serious realm: a conflicted revolutionary force defending its 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 of characters has come alive for me as I've drawn them battling across land and space, rebuilding society from the ashes of revolution, and pursuing vengeance, justice, and even love."

Free Planet #1 launches Wednesday, May 7.

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