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

IGN exclusively unveils Image Comics' latest offering: Free Planet, a sprawling space opera blending East Meets West aesthetics with the scope of Dune. Sci-fi enthusiasts should definitely add this to their must-read list.

Below is an exclusive preview gallery of Free Planet #1:

Free Planet #1: Exclusive Preview

10 Images

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:

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 empires, all while grappling with the true meaning of freedom. SITTERSON and DOUGHERTY seamlessly merge the intricate historical tapestry of EAST OF WEST with the emotionally resonant space opera style of SAGA, crafting a narrative about freedom and the sacrifices it demands.

Sitterson shared with IGN: "Free Planet represents the future of comics, Jed and I striving to elevate our medium with a truly literary comic, showcasing rich complexity through visuals. From intense military action to intricate geopolitical maneuvering and heart-wrenching drama, every page is packed with visual detail; it's a book designed for slow, repeated readings. It's a complex exploration of what everyone, regardless of political leaning, truly desires: Freedom. Its home at Image Comics is fitting, a publisher dedicated to 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 venture into a more serious work: a conflicted revolutionary force defending planetary resources against interstellar threats. Mirroring the intricate script, my art style incorporates grittier tones and experimental page layouts and graphics. The diverse cast of characters has come alive as I've drawn them battling on land and in space, rebuilding society, and pursuing vengeance, justice, and even love."

Free Planet #1 launches Wednesday, May 7th. For more comic book news, check out our 2025 previews for Marvel and DC.