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

IGN exclusively reveals Image Comics' latest creation: Free Planet, an epic space opera blending East-meets-West aesthetics with the scope of Dune. Sci-fi fans, take note!

Below, find an exclusive first look at Free Planet #1:

Free Planet #1: Exclusive Comic Book Preview

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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:

The first completely free planet in human history has won its independence. Now, a group of revolutionary heroes must defend the planet’s unique energy source from hostile intergalactic powers, while grappling with the true meaning of freedom. SITTERSON and DOUGHERTY blend the intricate future history of EAST OF WEST with the emotional space opera stylings of SAGA in a story about freedom and its cost.

"Free Planet represents the future of comics," Sitterson shares with IGN. "Jed and I aimed to elevate the medium with a truly literary comic, rich in visual complexity. From intense military action to intricate geopolitical maneuvering and heart-wrenching drama, every page is packed with detail; a book designed for slow, repeated readings. It's a complex exploration of what everyone desires—freedom—and its fitting that Free Planet finds a home at Image Comics, a publisher dedicated to creator freedom."

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

Free Planet #1 launches Wednesday, May 7.

For more comic book news, explore our previews of Marvel's and DC's 2025 plans.