Omnicomic

Defense With The BoomStick

2013-05-24T14:20:00.000-04:00

(Disclaimer: This post is an ongoing story set in a world where zombies have taken over and people are fighting to survive anyway they can. Originally it was a post of news and tips to help survivors make it one more day alive, but now it has became a story of my fight to survive and to keep on living.)

Trapped in a car is no way to die. When the zombie outbreak happened and over the past few years I’m sure many a person found themselves trapped in a car surrounded by zombies. Facing one of two ways to die by dehydration/starvation or the eventual zombie horde busting in and taking bites aren't pretty ways for someone to go.

You sit watching your fate outside the windows banging and banging to get in and tear you apart. In all my time out beyond the safety of a wall I never had to take refuge in a car to escape a pack of zombies, but I’ve finally found myself in that situation. When you're completely cut off from an escape route and surrounded, jumping in a car was the only choice, short of going out in a blaze of glory.

I tied both doors together with some rope and bungee cords I found in the cab so they can’t be open, even if zombies could figure out how to open them. I then put as much paper and stuff to block the windows so the zombies would lose sight of me. I knew the ones still beating on the sides knew I was in there, but figure no need to give them more incentive to want to stay. After securing the doors and blocking the windows except for a little slit in the windshield so I can look out I crawled into the back of the cab where the bunk for a trucker is.

I must have holed in there for at least three days eating and drinking sparingly so as to not have a lot of waste to dispose of out of a top roof hatch. It wasn’t the most ideal situation, but at least I am still alive after the time. Those three days were some of the most brutal I've been through. Towards the end of the third day is when I made my break for it, as I only heard a few zombies out there still banging. I peeked out the opening and climbed out of the roof hatch dispatching the few zombies in my path and hauling down the street.

Sure a couple followed me, but I lost them easily enough and now find myself hidden amidst the suburbs. Almost out of this death trap and on my way again. With the way things have been going I look to be out of Flagstaff within the next week or so; at least I am hoping that to be the case. This hell I've found myself in just won't end and I don’t think I have spent this long trying to get through one city in my life.

Review - Anti #4

2013-05-24T12:31:00.000-04:00

The anti-christ has to have a busy schedule. Subverting God, destroying the world...just all in a hard day's work. There's usually another that can stop him, but whether or not he actually does it always makes for good theater. Anti #4 from 12-Gauge is good theater.

The issue is written by Peter Calloway, illustrated by Daniel Hillyard, colored by Charlie Kirchoff and lettered by Ed Dukeshire.

Last time we checked in on Zachary and Jordan, they were holed up in the morgue. The morgue also happens to be the portal leading out of hell. While down there, they happened to run into the anti-Christ, who just so happened to have left them a trap with the hopes of turning Zachary. Zachary is forced to make a difficult decision thrust upon him by the anti-Christ, watching Jordan bleed out in front of him. It's all about tough choices that also seem to impact humanity as a whole, with Zachary imbued with the power to make a major difference.

The strength of Calloway's story is the relationship between Zachary and Jordan. Zachary goes from unsuspecting man to potentially saving the world and Calloway offers Jordan as a good foil and guide for his newfound quest. The ending is fairly standard, but it's presented in a way that is somewhat fresh in a sense. The Anti-Christ comes off as a little smarmy and callous; almost a little too much.

Hillyard's art is up to the task. He does a great job with the action sequences and--considering Jordan is bleeding out most of the issue--manages to set the scene very well. The art has a grittiness to it that really fits well with the entire theme of the book. The fourth and final issue features art consistent with the rest of the series and it's been quite strong overall.

Anti #4 completes an interesting four-issue miniseries that looks at the end of days from a slightly different perspective. Zachary grows as a character and manages to find something inside that saves the world. The series is a pretty quick read and worth checking out if you're into the End of Days type storylines.

Anti #4 is available now.

Elephantmen Hits Half-Century Mark

2013-05-24T10:37:00.000-04:00

Fifty issues is a milestone to celebrate. Giant, angry elephant men tend to celebrate the milestone with even more gusto, primarily by offering a spin-off book called Hip Flask. Oh and there will be a 50th issue of course, slated to hit stores on July 17. And Richard Starkings is at the center of it.

"Fifty issues! One more and ELEPHANTMEN is as old as I am!" marveled creator and writer Starkings. "When we launched the series in 2006, I thought maybe I had six issues in me, yet here we are, seven years later and six ELEPHANTMEN collections in stores and another in preparation for release this summer!"

Following a group of human/animal hybrid super-soldiers who are struggling to integrate themselves into a society that is often hostile to their very existence, the series has gone on be collected into six hardcovers and trade paperbacks. It has featured art by Ladrönn, Boo Cook, Chris Burnham, Shaky Kane and Axel Medellin. Elephantmen #50 is called "Blue Collar Blues" and features a cover by Frank Quitely, coming after the close of the "Sleeping Partners" story arc. It follows one Elephantman in particular.

The issue is illustrated by series regular Medellin and Gabe Bautista and also includes a re-presentation of Elephantmen #1, with art by Moritat, and a gallery of covers by Brandon Graham, Camilla d'Errico, J. Scott Campbell, Brian Bolland,, Chris Weston, Ladrönn, Ian Churchill and Ed McGuinness. The 50th issue is available for pre-order from the May issue of Previews (Diamond code MAY130418). The revised and expanded Elephantmen Volume 1, which now includes issue #0 with art by Ladrönn and an introduction by Jonathan Ross, will be in stores on May 22. The newest collection, Volume 6: Earthly Desires, due in stores in July 10, is also available for preorder (MAY130420).

Full press release below.

ELEPHANTMEN AT THE HALF-CENTURY MARK

Fiftieth issue of Starkings' sci-fi epic in July

ELEPHANTMEN, Richard Starkings' epic science fiction series exploring the ramifications of genetic experimentation, war, and racism, is reaching a milestone this July: its 50th issue. ELEPHANTMEN debuted in 2006, published by Image Comics, a spin-off of Starkings self-published (and now Image title) HIP FLASK.

Following a group of human/animal hybrid super-soldiers who are struggling to integrate themselves into a society that is often hostile to their very existence, the series has gone on be collected into six hardcovers and trade paperbacks. It has featured art by Ladrönn, Boo Cook, Chris Burnham, Shaky Kane, and Axel Medellin, and the cover of ELEPHANTMEN #43 is among the work that earned Brandon Graham a "Best Cover Artist" Eisner Award nomination.

"Fifty issues! One more and ELEPHANTMEN is as old as I am!" marveled creator and writer Starkings, who also owns the well-respected comics lettering studio Comicraft. "When we launched the series in 2006, I thought maybe I had six issues in me, yet here we are, seven years later and six ELEPHANTMEN collections in stores and another in preparation for release this summer!"

ELEPHANTMEN #50, "Blue Collar Blues," has a cover by renowned comics artist Frank Quitely, and comes after the close of the monumental "Sleeping Partners" story arc. It brings the story into the intimate sphere of one Elephantman, following his everyday life with its struggles and small triumphs. The issue is illustrated by series regular Axel Medellin and Gabe Bautista and also includes a re-presentation of ELEPHANTMEN #1, with art by Moritat, and a gallery of covers by Brandon Graham, Camilla d'Errico, J. Scott Campbell, Brian Bolland,, Chris Weston, Ladrönn, Ian Churchill, and Ed McGuinness.

ELEPHANTMEN #50 will be in stores on July 17 and is available for pre-order from the May issue of Previews (Diamond code MAY130418). The revised and expanded ELEPHANTMEN VOLUME 1, which now includes issue #0 with art by Ladrönn and an introduction by Jonathan Ross, will be in stores on May 22. The newest collection, VOLUME 6: EARTHLY DESIRES, due in stores in July 10, is also available for preorder (MAY130420).

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ABOUT IMAGE COMICS
Image Comics is a comic book and graphic novel publisher founded in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Image has since gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. Image currently has five partners: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino. It consists of five major houses: Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline, Skybound and Image Central. Image publishes comics and graphic novels in nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable. It offers science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. For more information, visit www.imagecomics.com.

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BOOM! Studios Releases First Adventure Time Annual

2013-05-24T08:32:00.000-04:00

Any time is a good time for adventure. Adventure is even better when it's celebrated annually and BOOM! Studios is all for that train. In fact, they're releasing Adventure Time Annual #1, jam-packed with a variety of special short stories in the Land of Ooo, slated to hit stores on May 29.

Featuring some of the hottest talent in comics today putting their creative spin on the land of Ooo. A great tool for bringing readers into the series and an awesome book for die-hard Adventure Time fans. Featuring stories from Roger Langridge, Derek Fridolfs, Dustin Nguyen, Alex Cox, Josh Williamson, Jason Ho, Bryce Carlson and others.

Adventure Time Annual #1 ships with a main cover by Ale Garza and variant covers by Natasha Allegri and Derek Fridolfs. It's available for order under Diamond order code MAR130950. Full press release below.

BOOM! STUDIOS
RELEASES THE FIRST
ADVENTURE TIME ANNUAL

May 23th, 2012 - Los Angeles, CA - BOOM! Studios is proud to release the first ADVENTURE TIME ANNUAL! In response to fan and retailer demand for more ADVENTURE TIME comics, the ADVENTURE TIME ANNUAL #1 is jam-packed with a variety of special short stories in the Land of Ooo and will arrive in stores on May 29th.

THE FUN WILL NEVER END IN THIS SPECIAL EXPANDED ADVENTURE TIME ANNUAL! Featuring some of the hottest talent in comics today putting their creative spin on the land of Ooo! A great tool for bringing readers into the series and an awesome book for die-hard ADVENTURE TIME fans! Featuring stories from Roger Langridge, Derek Fridolfs, Dustin Nguyen, Alex Cox, Josh Williamson, Jason Ho, Bryce Carlson and others!

ADVENTURE TIME ANNUAL #1 ships with a main cover by Ale Garza (FATHOM, TEEN TITANS) and variant covers by Natasha Allegri (ADVENTURE TIME: FIONNA & CAKE) and Derek Fridolfs (BATMAN: ARKHAM CITY) is available for order under Diamond order code MAR130950.

About BOOM! Studios

Founded by Ross Richie in 2005, Diamond Gem Award-winning "Best Publisher" BOOM! Studios (boom-studios.com) generates a constellation of best-selling Eisner and Harvey Award-winning original and licensed comic books and graphic novels with the industry's top talent. BOOM! Studios is the home of Mike Carey's SUICIDE RISK, Clive Barker’s NEXT TESTAMENT and HELLRAISER, Paul Jenkins and Humberto Ramos' FAIRY QUEST, PLANET OF THE APES, Max Bemis' POLARITY and Mark Waid’s IRREDEEMABLE. Steven Grant's graphic novel 2 GUNS will be released as a feature film from Universal Pictures August 2nd, starring Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg. BOOM!'s all-ages imprint KaBOOM! publishes Charles Schulz' PEANUTS, Jim Davis’ GARFIELD, Cartoon Network's ADVENTURE TIME and REGULAR SHOW, Mike Kunkel's HEROBEAR AND THE KID and Roger Langridge’s Eisner Award-winning SNARKED.

Review - Jirni #2

2013-05-23T12:34:00.000-04:00

A daughter's quest to find her mother is one fraught with peril and emotion. For whatever reason, the mother needs to be found and Ara is hellbent on finding hers. Her journey continues in Jirni #2 from Aspen Comics.

The issue is written by J.T. Krul, illustrated by Paolo Pantalena, colored by Brett Smith and lettered by Josh Reed.

Ara and Nylese continue their quest, with Nylese inquisitive about Ara's kingdom Janna. Ara dishes on the city, including King Graim's attack on the city, subsequently leading to the enslavement of Ara's mother. Ara is hidden by her mother to little avail, an assault that prompts her to unleash her anger and take on her captors. All that past information brings her back to the present, where's faced with an old woman, a well and a monster. Things get a little crazy after that.

Krul's pacing the story very well, ensuring that Ara and Nylese are moving forward on their journey while also relaying information about Ara's past. Mixing in the flashbacks contextually with the scene really emphasizes their importance to the series as a whole. For example, the flashback is mixed in while Ara and Nylese are dealing with another mother and her child, highlighting the lengths a mother will go to protect her daughter. There is something of a sharp contrast between Ara and Nylese which slows the story down a tad, but it's nothing too bad.

Pantalena's art is phenomenal. He does a great job with the characters and settings, presenting a world that's larger than life. The Djinn makes another (albeit brief) performance and it's just as terrifying. If there's one minor gripe, it's that there are a few panels where Ara is illustrated very vivaciously, almost to the point where it's distracting from the story itself. Other than that, Pantalena fills the pages with great illustrations that give the reader a picture of the world throughout the journey.

Jirni #2 is a good follow-up to the initial issue. It amplifies the concept of mother and daughter by playing up the lengths of that relationship. That emphasis serves as a great reinforcement for Ara's character and her quest, proving that a strong motivation will send anyone great distances. Jirni is shaping up to be quite interesting indeed and is definitely worth checking out.

Jirni #2 is in stores now.

Valiant Prepares for Phoenix Comicon

2013-05-23T10:33:00.000-04:00

Ready for Phoenix Comicon this weekend? Valiant is and they're bringing their comic ruckus to the show to booth #652. The publisher will be bringing along exclusives, panels and some signings.

Stop by for a full selection of Valiant comics, trade paperbacks, hardcovers and merchandise – including convention-exclusive, double-sided Shadowman #1/Harbinger Wars #1 Sketch Flipbooks. And get an advance look at the summer's biggest releases with the Valiant Summer 2013 Preview Edition – a FREE convention-only comic book, featuring a look inside Quantum and Woody #1 by James Asmus and Tom Fowler and an extended preview of Harbinger Wars #1, the debut issue of Valiant’s first crossover event. And look for signings by Harbinger Wars creators Joshua Dysart and Clayton Henry throughout the weekend.

Then, get the inside track on the Summer of Valiant 2013 on Friday, May 24th at 1:30 pm in room 125B at the Valiant 2013: Harbinger Wars and Beyond panel presentation, featuring special guests Dysart, Henry, Christos Gage and Chief Creative Officer Dinesh Shamdasani. Find out everything you need to know about the next year of the Valiant Universe directly from a panel of Valiant insiders.

Full press release below.

VALIANT Gets Fired Up for PHOENIX COMICON 2013!

This weekend, Valiant is hitting the road for Phoenix Comicon 2013 – the signature pop culture experience of the Southwest!

From Thursday, May 23rd to Sunday, May 26th at the Phoenix Convention Center, visit Valiant at booth #652 for a weekend packed with signings, panels, and exclusive giveaways!

Stop by for a full selection of Valiant comics, trade paperbacks, hardcovers and merchandise – including convention-exclusive, double-sided Shadowman #1/Harbinger Wars #1 Sketch Flipbooks! And get an advance look at the summer's biggest releases with the Valiant Summer 2013 Preview Edition – a FREE convention-only comic book, featuring a look inside Quantum and Woody #1 by James Asmus and Tom Fowler and an extended preview of Harbinger Wars #1, the debut issue of Valiant’s first crossover event. And look for signings by Harbinger Wars creators Joshua Dysart and Clayton Henry throughout the weekend!

Then, get the inside track on the Summer of Valiant 2013 on Friday, May 24th at 1:30 pm in room 125B at the Valiant 2013: Harbinger Wars and Beyond panel presentation, featuring special guests Joshua Dysart (Harbinger Wars, Harbinger), Clayton Henry (Harbinger Wars, Archer & Armstrong), Christos Gage (Bloodshot and H.A.R.D. Corps) and Chief Creative Officer Dinesh Shamdasani! Find out everything you need to know about the next year of the Valiant Universe right here, directly from a panel of Valiant insiders!

For more information, visit PhoenixComicon.com or ValiantUniverse.com.

We'll see you in Phoenix!

Ghosted Debuts in July

2013-05-23T08:25:00.000-04:00

Finding ghosts is a lot easier said than done. You need someone who knows what they're doing and actually has the ability to find said ghosts. Jackson T. Winters is one such man in Ghosted from Image Comics, written by Joshua Williamson and illustrated by Goran Sdzuka (colors by Miroslave Mrva).

"For years my obsession has been to do a book that took place in a haunted house; a crime and horror title, one that was fun but went to some dark edgy places,” said Williamson. "'Gritty' has become a sort of pop word to describe a certain kind of book but it really is the best way to illustrate Ghosted.”

Winters has spent the last decade languishing in prison after his last heist went horribly wrong. Now, in return for breaking him out, a rich eccentric tasks him with capturing a ghost for the millionaire's macabre collection. The dark, supernatural mystery is crossed with a classic caper. Expert thief Winters must assemble a completely different kind of team than the one he lost ten years before, made up of ghost hunters and paranormal experts. But the haunted house they enter may be more of a match than they'd bargained for.

Williamson isn't shy about putting his characters' dark sides on display, either. "One of my favorite things to write are the bad guys. The underbelly of the crime world. Characters that are tortured, and are kind of jerks. Ghosted has plenty of that and has been a blast.”

The first issue of the five-issue miniseries is set to go on sale on July 10. It can be pre-ordered now (Diamond Code MAY130405) from the May issue of Previews. Full press release below.

A CRIMINAL MASTERMIND GETS GHOSTED

A new Image/Skybound mini-series in July

Criminal mastermind Jackson T. Winters has spent the last decade languishing in prison after his last heist went horribly wrong. Now, in return for breaking him out, a rich eccentric tasks him with capturing a ghost for the millionaire's macabre collection in the new Image Comics/Skybound mini-series GHOSTED.

Written by Joshua Williamson and drawn Goran Sdzuka, with Miroslav Mrva on colors and Eisner nominee Sean Phillips (FATALE) providing covers, GHOSTED, set to debut in July, is a dark supernatural mystery crossed with a classic caper. Expert thief Winters must assemble a completely different kind of team than the one he lost ten years before, made up of ghost hunters and paranormal experts. But the haunted house they enter may be more of a match than they'd bargained for.

"For years my obsession has been to do a book that took place in a haunted house; a crime and horror title, one that was fun but went to some dark edgy places,” said writer Williamson. "'Gritty' has become a sort of pop word to describe a certain kind of book but it really is the best way to illustrate Ghosted.”

Williamson isn't shy about putting his characters' dark sides on display, either. "One of my favorite things to write are the bad guys. The underbelly of the crime world. Characters that are tortured, and are kind of jerks. Ghosted has plenty of that and has been a blast.”

Williamson spoke about GHOSTED at Comic Book Resources in March, after the title's announcement at Emerald City Comicon, and at PreviewsWorld. The first issue of the five-issue miniseries is set to go on sale on July 10. It can be pre-ordered now (Diamond Code MAY130405) from the May issue of Previews.

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Review - The Bounce #1

2013-05-22T12:41:00.000-04:00

Superheroes. Every day it seems like more and more of them are springing up, capitalizing on whatever problem or event in their life to become a new persona. Why those heroes do what they do sometimes remains a mystery. What they actually do however, often doesn't. If a character is called The Bounce, it's pretty self-explanatory, such as in The Bounce #1 from Image Comics.

The issue is written by Joe Casey, with art by David Messina, colors by Giovanna Niro and letters by Rus Wooton.

Jasper Jenkins is a rather typical twenty-something. He seemingly drifts through life (most of the time high) and doesn't really show any real purpose around his friends. Clearly, his friends don't know him that well, as he doubles as a superhero named The Bounce. As a superhero, he springs and leaps against his foes, including those named Crush (who's fond of bear hugs) and an expected foe in a mysterious, alien being.

The Bounce isn't exactly treading new ground, as ever since Kick-Ass gained so much popularity the concept of "superheroes" existing and acknowledging one another has exploded in stories. Having said that, Casey seems to be both relying on that idea while lampooning it at the same time. Characters such as The Bounce, Crush and The Fog are relatively straightforward and boring to an extent, but Casey puts a more mature and dark spin on them. The characters are flawed for whatever reason and Casey forces the characters to be slaves to their vices.

Messina's art is very well done. Panels where The Bounce is bouncing are achieved with a blur effect, which emphasizes the motion of his power. It's a cool effect and helps the reader learn more about his power. Many of the panels are laid out in a superhero book fashion, giving the reader the sense that they're reading a superhero book about slackers. There are some relatively trippy panels towards the end of the book that really take the reader along with the character in an interesting way.

More and more books are going the "normal superhero" route and it remains to be seen whether or not this continues to be the focus in The Bounce as the series. In the first issue, the reader is more or less thrown into the mix of it all and forced to catch up. Subsequent issues will likely settle down and help make clear whether or not Casey is making fun of superheroes and the trope or just pitching a really messed up world inhabited by messed up people. Still though, the first issue is interesting and is worth checking out.

The Bounce #1 is available now.

Zenescope Entertainment Uniting All-Stars in Realm Knights

2013-05-22T10:30:00.000-04:00

Every publisher loves a good crossover. Crossovers lead to team-ups, bringing together a slew of familiar characters to fight on one super-team against a common enemy. Zenescope wants to create their own super-team, bringing together some of its most popular Grimm Universe characters for Realm Knights, written by Patrick Shand.

“It's a great mix of fantasy, action, horror and humor.” says writer Patrick Shand. “It's a blast to take these characters out of their separate titles and allow them to come together against common threats while also trying to get along with one other. For Grimm Fairy Tales fans, the elements will be familiar but also feel fresh and different.”

The brand new four issue mini-series teams up characters such as Robyn Hood, Van Helsing, Red Riding Hood and Sela Mathers. Together the group forms the Realm Knights, a powerful modern day team of heroes that is chosen to help eliminate daunting supernatural threats against our world. The first issue of Realm Knights is available now for pre-order in Diamond's June 2013 edition of PREVIEWS and will be released both in print and digitally in August. The #1 issue will feature covers by Anthony Spay, Marat Mychaels, Alfredo Reyes and will also include a unique “suiting up” connecting cover by Spay that will spread across all four issues.

Full press release below.

Zenescope Entertainment Announces All-Star line-up in Realm Knights

Zenescope Entertainment has announced plans to bring together a cast of its most popular Grimm Universe characters for the upcoming mini-series which will be entitled Realm Knights. The company best known for re-telling classic stories with a unique blend of horror, tongue-in-cheek humor and great action, is bringing out its heavy hitters for this brand new four issue mini-series that teams up its fan-favorite characters such as Robyn Hood, Van Helsing, Red Riding Hood and Sela Mathers. Together the group forms the Realm Knights, a powerful modern day team of heroes that is chosen to help eliminate daunting supernatural threats against our world.

“It's a great mix of fantasy, action, horror and humor.” says writer Patrick Shand. “It's a blast to take these characters out of their separate titles and allow them to come together against common threats while also trying to get along with one other. For Grimm Fairy Tales fans, the elements will be familiar but also feel fresh and different.”

The first issue of Realm Knights is available now for pre-order in Diamond's June 2013 edition of PREVIEWS and will be released both in print and digitally in August. The #1 issue will feature covers by Anthony Spay, Marat Mychaels, Alfredo Reyes and will also include a unique “suiting up” connecting cover by Anthony Spay that will spread across all four issues of the first mini-series. For more information on Realm Knights or any other Zenescope title, visit www.zenescope.com or follow their updates on Facebook and Twitter.

Zenescope Entertainment was founded by Joe Brusha and Ralph Tedesco in 2005, and has quickly grown into one of the top comic book and graphic novel publishing companies in the world. Zenescope's Grimm Fairy Tales and subsequent spinoff series such as Wonderland, Neverland and Robyn Hood, which put a dark twist on classic fables, are some of the best-selling and longest-running original independent comic books on shelves today. Zenescope publishes and develops both original and licensed material and has worked with dozens of clients that include Discovery Channel, History Channel, CBS, Lionsgate TV, Mandalay Vision, New Line Cinema, Titmouse Studios and many others.

BOOM! Studios Debuts at Phoenix Comicon

2013-05-22T08:37:00.000-04:00

Phoenix Comicon isn't quite so new, but some publishers appearing at the show are a little greener than others. Take--for instance--BOOM! Studios. The publisher has been around for a while, yet have somehow managed to avoid hitting Phoenix. 2013 will change that, with the publisher poised to bring its wares to the show for the first time to Booth #559. Not only that, but 2 Guns creator Steven Grant will also be on hand.

There will be four exclusive variant covers, available only at the booth. Those books will include Adventure Time Annual #1 and Regular Show #1 (both by Meredith McClaren), Suicide Risk #1 (by Joëlle Jones) and Clive Barker Next Testament #1 (by Haemi Jang). Talent on hand will include Gant, Eric Esquivel, Caleb Monroe, Grace Randolph and Travis Hill. BOOM! Studios is also a proud sponsor of the Bleeding Cool Fan Awards, to be presented at Phoenix Comicon on Friday at 6PM in Room 132. Attendees will receive a free Adventure Time #16 limited edition variant cover, which only available by attending the awards.

Phoenix Comic Con will take place at the Phoenix Convention Center located at 100 N 3rd St. Phoenix, AZ 85004. On Thursday the 23rd, the shows hours are from 4 PM-9 PM, on Friday the 24th, the hours are from 10 AM-7 PM, on Saturday the 25th, the hours are from 10 AM-10 PM and on Sunday the 26st, the hours are from 10 AM-5 PM.

Full press release below.

BOOM! STUDIOS
DEBUTS AT PHOENIX COMICON
WITH 2 GUNS' STEVEN GRANT

May 21st 2013 - Los Angeles, CA - BOOM! Studios is thrilled to be exhibiting for the first time at PHOENIX COMICON taking place Memorial Day weekend beginning Thursday, May 23rd through Sunday, March 26th. Headlining BOOM! Studios’ exciting line up of guests and exclusive variant covers is 2 Guns creator Steven Grant (PUNISHER, 3 GUNS).

BOOM! Studios will bringing four exclusive variant covers to Phoenix Comicon, which will be available only at the BOOM! Studios booth (#559). From the KaBOOM! imprint, copies of ADVENTURE TIME ANNUAL #1 and REGULAR SHOW #1 both with southwest-themed covers by Meredith McClaren (HINGES) will be available for purchase. Additionally, BOOM! Studios is pleased to partner with local retailer Jesse James Comics on two limited edition variants, SUICIDE RISK #1 with a cover by Joëlle Jones (HELHEIM) and CLIVE BARKER’S NEXT TESTAMENT #1 with a cover by series artist Haemi Jang (HELLRAISER: THE ROAD BELOW).

BOOM! Studios is thrilled to host Steven Grant (2 GUNS) along with Eric Esquivel (FREELANCERS), and Caleb Monroe (STEED AND MRS PEEL, ICE AGE) at the BOOM!/KaBOOM! booth (booth # 559) all weekend long. Grace Randolph (GRACE RANDOLPH’S SUPURBIA) will also be at our booth on Saturday and Sunday.

Travis Hill (ADVENTURE TIME, CARS) will also be at the BOOM!/KaBOOM! booth (booth #559) sketching GET-A -SKETCH covers all weekend long! Make sure to stop by for your chance to pick up the hottest comics, trades and variant covers including hit brands like ADVENTURE TIME, PEANUTS, GARFIELD, BRAVEST WARRIORS, PLANET OF THE APES, HELLRAISER, and many, many more!

BOOM! Studios is also a proud sponsor of the Bleeding Cool Fan Awards, to be presented at Phoenix Comicon on Friday at 6PM in Room 132. Attendees will receive a free ADVENTURE TIME #16 limited edition variant cover for free. The exclusive Adventure Time #16 variant is ONLY available by attending the Bleeding Cool Fan Awards. The Fan Awards are rated for mature audiences.

Phoenix Comic Con will take place at the Phoenix Convention Center located at 100 N 3rd St. Phoenix, AZ 85004. On Thursday the 23rd, the shows hours are from 4pm-9pm, on Friday the 24th, the hours are from 10am-7pm, on Saturday the 25th, the hours are from 10am-10pm and on Sunday the 26st, the hours are from 10am-5pm. If you would like more information about the show, visit the official website: http://phoenixcomicon.com

About BOOM! Studios

Aspen Comics Announces Phoenix Comic Con 2013 Exclusives

2013-05-21T14:30:00.000-04:00

Aspen Comics is at Phoenix Comic Con. That's not really news. What is news is all the exclusives the publisher will be bringing to the table, including creators and exclusives. Among the creators will be Frank Mastromauro, Peter Steigerwald, Vince Hernandez, Mike DeBalfo, J.T. Krul, Brett Smith, Nei Ruffino and Alex Konat will be appearing at the Aspen Booth throughout the weekend for signings, sketches and more.

The popular Aspen Splash swimsuit pinup book by Aspen returns this year with an oversized special edition featuring both new and classic pieces by Aspen’s top talents and more. The Aspen Booth #873 and 972 will be offering an exclusive Aspen Splash 2013 Phoenix Comics Con edition with a cover by Michael Turner along with Steigerwald, limited to 250 copies.

The best-selling “10 for 10” initiative celebrating ten years of Aspen Comics continues with two all new “10 for 10” exclusives for the convention. Charismagic will feature a special Charismagic #2 Phoenix Comic Con 2013 cover by artist Paolo Pantalena and Steigerwald limited to 200 copies, two weeks prior to its release exclusive only for PCC attendees. Aspen will also be offering an exclusive with a Jirni #2 Phoenix Comic Con cover by series artist Pantalena and Steigerwald, limited to 200 copies.

In addition to exclusive comics, Aspen will be releasing an all-new series of their industry-leading art prints including the Aspen Tour Print 2013 Phoenix Comic Con Edition by Turner and Steigerwald limited to 100 editions. Also, Aspen will be offering new Aspen Splash, Charismagic, Jirni and Shrugged prints by Turner, Eric “Ebas” Basaldua and Pantalena.

Full press release below.

Aspen Comics Announces Phoenix Comic Con 2013 Exclusives

Press Release

05-20-13

Aspen Comics has revealed their much-anticipated Phoenix Comic Con 2013 exclusives as well as their list of creators that will be available at the Aspen Comics Booth #’s 873 and 972 all weekend long.

Aspen creators Frank Mastromauro (Shrugged, Overtaken), Peter Steigerwald (The Zoo Hunters, Lady Mechanika), Vince Hernandez (Charismagic, Executive Assistant: Assassins), Mike DeBalfo (Soulfire) J.T. Krul ( Jirni, Soulfire), Brett Smith (Jirni, Homecoming) Nei Ruffino (Soulfire) and Alex Konat (Fathom) will be appearing at the Aspen Booth throughout the weekend for signings, sketches and more.

The popular Aspen Splash swimsuit pinup book by Aspen returns this year with an oversized special edition featuring both new and classic pieces by Aspen’s top talents and more. The Aspen Booth #873 and 972 will be offering an exclusive Aspen Splash 2013 Phoenix Comics Con edition with a cover by Aspen founder Michael Turner along with superstar colorist Peter Steigerwald, limited to 250 copies.

The best-selling “10 for 10” initiative celebrating ten years of Aspen Comics continues with two all new “10 for 10” exclusives for the convention. Aspen’s critically-acclaimed series Charismagic returned in May and will feature a special Charismagic #2 Phoenix Comic Con 2013 cover by artist Paolo Pantalena and Steigerwald limited to 200 copies, two weeks prior to its release exclusive only for PCC attendees. Aspen will also be offering an exclusive for their new top-selling fantasy series with a Jirni #2 Phoenix Comic Con cover by series artist Pantalena and Steigerwald, limited to 200 copies.

In addition to exclusive comics, Aspen will be releasing an all-new series of their industry-leading art prints including the Aspen Tour Print 2013 Phoenix Comic Con Edition by Michael Turner and Peter Steigerwald limited to 100 editions. Also, Aspen will be offering new Aspen Splash, Charismagic, Jirni and Shrugged prints by Michael Turner, Eric “Ebas” Basaldua and Paolo Pantalena.

For more information please check www.phoenixcomicon.com and aspencomics.com

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Aspen MLT, Inc. is an entertainment publishing company founded in January 2003 by superstar comic artist Michael Turner. Priding itself on producing entertainment properties of the highest quality visual and storytelling elements Along with their own successful properties such as Fathom, Soulfire, Executive Assistant: Iris, Charismagic, Broken Pieces and more. Aspen also collaborates with the comic industry's most successful companies and endeavors including Marvel Comics and DC Entertainment. Aspen has collaborated with Marvel for various hit projects, including cover work for the best-selling events Civil War, World War Hulk, and Ultimatum. Aspen collaborated with DC Comics to provide covers for such best-selling titles as Superman/Batman: The Return of Supergirl, The Justice League of America, and Eisner-nominated covers for the critically acclaimed, best-selling Identity Crisis series. In 2006, Aspen joined forces with television giant NBC to create the online comic adaptations for the hit television series Heroes. In 2012, Aspen teamed up with Gale Anne Hurd’s Valhalla Entertainment to produce the horror-adventure series Dead Man’s Run, as well as collaborating with director McG’s Wonderland Sound and Vision to produce the horror comic Haunted City. Aspen also produced the one-of-a-kind Anarchy digital graphic novel for the popular body spray company, Axe. Currently, Aspen is celebrating their tenth anniversary in the industry with their “10 for 10” initiative and more original properties forthcoming later in the year.

Review - Akaneiro #1

2013-05-21T12:37:00.000-04:00

Little Red Riding Hood had a basket of food and was off to see her grandmother. Little did she know of the perils of traveling through the forest alone or that she would be set upon by a bloodthirsty wolf. Had she brought an axe however, well, then maybe the trip would've been a lot easier. Akaneiro #1 from Dark Horse Comics is an adaption of sorts of Little Red Riding Hood, proving that even an axe may not be enough.

The new series is written by Justin Aclin, with art by Vasilis Lolos, colors by Michael Atiyeh and lettering by Michael Heisler.

Yomi Island is a beautiful place and the home of the Ainu people. They're dealing with something of an infestation in Yokai, animals possessed by demons intent on entering the world on Yomi Island and swarming its population. The Red Hunters of Akane hunt and kill the Yokai, but saying they're friends with the Ainu is a stretch. That's where Kani comes in. As a half-Ainu girl (on her late mother's side), she offeres to broker a peace between the Ainu and the Akane by joining the Red Hunters and going on a quest to kill Yokai.

It should be noted that the story is based on the game target="_blank">Akaneiro: Demon Hunters from Spicy Horse Games. Having said that, Aclin does a great job living in that world so to speak, yet still infusing it with life. Kani is both fearless and fearful at times; completely confident enough to charge into battle, but still a little uncertain when it comes to her place in society and the Ainu clan. She greatly respects her father--a roaming Ronin--and misses her mother, yet still can't seem to find acceptance where she's at.

Her offer to join the Red Hunters was a powerful one, both for her and the preservation of Yomi Island. Most of the first issue is spent introducing the reader to Kani and the island's situation, which, unfortunately isn't exactly that riveting. When Kani hits the road though, things really start to pick up and it looks like the Yokai may have a few tricks up their sleeve. Kani's encounters with them will be anything but boring and the direction the series is headed looks good.

Lolos' art is very unique in a good way. It's a little difficult to describe honestly, as it looks to be somewhat anime inspired in some panels and cel-shaded to a degree in others. Faces appear to be painted and showcase emotion pretty well and characters get top-billing over setting. The Yokai show some really creative presentation though, as they more or less reflect their animal counterparts in their demon forms. There's one towards the end that's especially clever and proves Kani may be in a bit over her head.

The story features a feudal Japan setting, Shinto religious influences and a girl with an axe. The Yokai are truly demonic and want nothing more than to destroy all on Yomi Island and the end of the issue presents quite an intriguing opportunity for them to do so. Kani's quest appears to be getting more dangerous than even she realized and her partnership with the Red Hunters should be interesting.

Akaneiro #1 is in stores May 22 with interiors below.

Dark Horse Publishes Last Man Standing

2013-05-21T10:36:00.000-04:00

Most comics start with issue number one. Few start with a 272-page tome that establishes the entire universe for the comic. Dan LuVisi does things a little differently, giving readers a lot to take in Killbook of a Bounty Hunter from Dark Horse Comics. Yes folks, the book is set for reprint.

The hardcover book will include thirty pages of all-new material and a new cover. This bible takes the form of a scrapbook filled with maps, history, over forty character biographies and dossiers, tons of faux advertisements, and much, much more. A limited San Diego Comic-Con exclusive edition is currently in the works, with a special cover shown here, which will only be for sale through Dark Horse at Comic-Con International 2013.

Gabriel is the last of a genetically engineered breed of supersoldiers known as the Paladin. After winning an interstellar war between Earth and Mars, Gabriel is celebrated back home and given the new title of Protector of Amerika. All goes well for the newly entitled superhero as he begins to rid the streets of the scum that plagues it. However, as Gabriel is distracted by his duties, a terrorist organization known as Pandemonium frames the hero for a series of atrocious crimes.

Now stripped of his title and prestige, Gabriel is sentenced to the notorious Level-9 Facility, where he endures nine long years of torture and imprisonment. But as the clock ticks down to Gabriel’s eventual demise, he is introduced to the elusive Agent O, who offers the Paladin a chance at redemption. Learn his story—and that of his allies and enemies—through Gabriel’s eyes, as he begins to orchestrate his revenge in the scarred and vivid world of New Amerika.

Last Man Standing is on sale November 6, 2013. Full press release below.

DARK HORSE PUBLISHES LUVISI’S

LAST MAN STANDING: KILLBOOK OF A BOUNTY HUNTER

Long out of print, the cult-status art book launches in Top 100 Books on Amazon

MAY 20, MILWAUKIE, OR—From the mind of Dan LuVisi comes a brand-spanking-new intellectual property. Where most comics start off with a first issue, Last Man Standing starts off with a 272-page bible, Killbook of a Bounty Hunter, that sets up the entire universe of the LMS world.

Dark Horse Comics is set to reprint the hard-to-find cult tome. The hardcover book will include thirty pages of all-new material and a new cover. This bible takes the form of a scrapbook filled with maps, history, over forty character biographies and dossiers, tons of faux advertisements, and much, much more.

A limited San Diego Comic-Con exclusive edition is currently in the works, with a special cover shown here, which will only be for sale through Dark Horse at Comic-Con International 2013.

More on Last Man Standing: Meet Gabriel—last of a genetically engineered breed of supersoldiers known as the Paladin. After winning an interstellar war between Earth and Mars, Gabriel is celebrated back home and given the new title of Protector of Amerika. All goes well for the newly entitled superhero as he begins to rid the streets of the scum that plagues it. However, as Gabriel is distracted by his duties, a terrorist organization known as Pandemonium frames the hero for a series of atrocious crimes.

Now stripped of his title and prestige, Gabriel is sentenced to the notorious Level-9 Facility, where he endures nine long years of torture and imprisonment. But as the clock ticks down to Gabriel’s eventual demise, he is introduced to the elusive Agent O, who offers the Paladin a chance at redemption. Learn his story—and that of his allies and enemies—through Gabriel’s eyes, as he begins to orchestrate his revenge in the scarred and vivid world of New Amerika.

Catch an exclusive interview about Last Man Standing with Dan LuVisi on Nerdist News.

Last Man Standing is on sale November 6, 2013.

About Dark Horse Comics

Founded in 1986 by Mike Richardson, Dark Horse Comics has proven to be a solid example of how integrity and innovation can help broaden a unique storytelling medium and establish a small, homegrown company as an industry giant. The company is known for the progressive and creator-friendly atmosphere it provides for writers and artists. In addition to publishing comics from top talent such as Frank Miller, Mike Mignola, Neil Gaiman, Brian Wood, Gerard Way, Felicia Day, and Guillermo del Toro, and comics legends such as Will Eisner, Neal Adams, and Jim Steranko, Dark Horse has developed its own successful properties, including The Mask, Ghost, Timecop, and SpyBoy. Its successful line of comics and products based on popular properties includes Star Wars, Mass Effect, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Aliens, Conan, Emily the Strange, Tim Burton’s Tragic Toys for Girls and Boys, Serenity, and Domo. Today Dark Horse Comics is the largest independent comic book publisher in the US and is recognized as one of the world’s leading publishers of both creator-owned content and licensed comics material.

Sheltered Teaches the Way of the Doomsday Prepper

2013-05-21T08:32:00.000-04:00

The cold reality is that it's very likely we'll be faced with an apocalyptic, Mad Max situation where leather is valued like gold and there are no rules. It'll be a time when doomsday preppers may have the upper hand (until the less seasoned ones are taken advantage of and dispatched for their resources). Still though, they make for entertaining stories and Image Comics plans on telling some of them in Sheltered, a new series by Ed Brisson and Johnnie Christmas hitting stores on July 10.

"Initially, I was researching preppers — people who are actively preparing for natural disasters, nuclear war, societal breakdown — to get and idea of how people would be able to survive any of the above,” said Brisson. "My initial idea was to do a post-apocalyptic story. Through my research, I started to get obsessed with the culture — from the outside! I don't own a bunker! — and how it would affect children raised in that sort of environment.”

Safe Haven is a survivalist colony sure the end of civilization is at hand. Economic collapse, natural disaster, civil war — they're prepared for it all in their underground compound deep in the woods of America's northeast. The threat to their existence comes from a source they never expected: their own children. Raised in paranoia and isolation, they rebel against their parents and take over the compound. Two leaders emerge from the rebellion: the teenagers Lucas, who led the revolt, and Victoria, who leads another group of kids in their escape. With Victoria set to expose Safe Haven, Lucas and his faction are determined to hunt her and her group down before they reach the nearest town, forty miles away through dangerous wilderness.

"We're going to be facing down the apocalypse with these people," said Christmas," it's important to really get a sense of who they are and what they're capable of,” he said. "These kids aren't even out of high school, but they are probably the most prepared folks on earth, when it comes to riding out the end of the world.”

Full press release below.

SURVIVAL AT ALL COSTS IN SHELTERED

New Image Comics series set in the world of doomsday "preppers”

The founders of the survivalist colony Safe Haven are sure that the end of civilization is at hand. Economic collapse, natural disaster, civil war — they're prepared for it all in their underground compound deep in the woods of America's northeast. But, in SHELTERED, the new series from Image Comics by Ed Brisson (COMEBACK) and Johnnie Christmas, the threat to their existence comes from a source they never expected: their own children.

Coming in July, SHELTERED follows the consequences after Safe Haven's younger generation, raised in paranoia and isolation, rebel against their parents and take over the compound. Two leaders emerge from the rebellion: the teenagers Lucas, who led the revolt, and Victoria, who leads another group of kids in their escape. With Victoria set to expose Safe Haven, Lucas and his faction are determined to hunt her and her group down before they reach the nearest town, forty miles away through dangerous wilderness.

The idea for SHELTERED grew out of Brisson's interest in end-of-world scenarios. "Initially, I was researching preppers — people who are actively preparing for natural disasters, nuclear war, societal breakdown — to get and idea of how people would be able to survive any of the above,” said the writer. "My initial idea was to do a post-apocalyptic story. Through my research, I started to get obsessed with the culture — from the outside! I don't own a bunker! — and how it would affect children raised in that sort of environment.”

With the art, Christmas strives to capture the isolation of the setting and the individuality of each character. "We're going to be facing down the apocalypse with these people, it's important to really get a sense of who they are and what they're capable of,” he said. "These kids aren't even out of high school, but they are probably the most prepared folks on earth, when it comes to riding out the end of the world.”

SHELTERED is a full-color comic book, with a five-issue first arc. Its first issue can be pre-ordered now (Diamond code MAY130408) and will be in stores on July 10, 2013. A four-page preview is up now at Multiversity Comics.

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Hank McCoy (Before the Fur)

2013-05-20T14:32:00.003-04:00

Damian Wayne.

What can be said of this treacherous, bloodthirsty little monster? Probably the most accurate thing that can be said of Damian is that he’s the son of the Batman. Not Bruce Wayne, but Batman.

He embodies the most vicious, sadistic parts of Batman’s personality. And in a way, Damian is only kind of aspiring to what he thinks he should be. I mean, if Batman is his father and Talia al Ghul is his mother, given the League of Assassins' ideas about what Batman should be doing with his time, is it any wonder that Damian is kind of confused about what Batman stands for?

Totally remorseless and a prodigy in all of the ways that Batman is, Damian gives you a preview of what a Batman on the side of the Ra's al Ghul would be like. And it’s disturbing stuff to say the least.

Sooner or later, DC found it’s way around to casting Damian as the latest iteration of Robin. First, he tried to usurp the role from Tim Drake by killing Drake off (this didn’t make dad happy). Later however, Damian began to show a surprising loyalty to his father and his cause (which doesn’t make mom happy). After a while, Batman finally decides that he needed to train--and not isolate--his son, adopting him as his sidekick.

I have to say, I was skeptical about this move. But I really like what it turned up for the Dark Knight.

Watching Batman train Damian is like watching Batman coach and nurture himself. Damian doesn’t lack for combat prowess or for intellect; he lacks restraint and a strong moral compass. Damian’s just as likely to injure someone in his attempt to save someone else. In essence, he misses the underlying philosophy of the entire endeavor. That's the part that Batman has to speak to him about. Batman may skulk in the shadows of your worst nightmare, but in order to do good he has to stay connected to his humanity.

He hasn’t exactly always been great at this; if it wasn’t for Alfred, Dick Grayson and others, he might have slipped away into the Batman persona all together. What’s interesting about Batman taking responsibility to help Damian see this is that it’s essentially synonymous with Batman taking accountability for monitoring how he himself balances these things in his life. If anyone is going to be able to understand what Damian is going through it’s him, right?

As time proceeded, Damian has seemed less and less alien and foreign and more like his father (a very confused, angry version of his father, but his father). Batman choosing to really know Damian is like him really choosing to know himself. And maybe that sort of helps Damian know who his father really is instead of the propaganda fantasy the league has cooked up and fed him.

Recently, Damian met his end. In a nice twist, he dies heroically. He seems more his father’s son here than he ever was. This has left our title hero somewhat unbalanced. Lately, Batman seems to be looking into the possibility of resurrecting Damian. This would be pretty radical and creepy because it doesn’t seem like something Batman would normally tamper with and it sort of makes you think about the other side of Damian’s heritage. The Ra’s al Ghul constantly getting resurrected and such side.

If Damian DID come back, would he be the same? Would that little glimmer of hope that he could amount to something good still be there? Or would we be back to square one again? Interesting questions.

Review - Steam Engines of Oz #1

2013-05-20T12:27:00.000-04:00

If you're off to see the wizard, there's a good chance you're off to see the Wizard of Oz. Did you know there's more to Emerald City than just the man behind the curtain? Such as that the Tin Man is a king with an army? Or the Witch of the North lives in the cold and doesn't like engineers? That's all found in Steam Engines of Oz #1 from Arcana Comics.

The first issue is written by Erik Hendrix and Sean Patrick O'Reilly, with art by Yannis Roumboulias, colors by Chandran Ponnusamy and letters by Amanda Hendrix.

Victoria Wright is an intelligent engineer tasked with keeping the machines of Oz running. She's joined beneath the Emerald City by Phadrig Digg, Howard the Wanderer and a Munchkin named Gromit. The three of them are "guests" who feel they've overstayed their welcome and are fighting to find a way out of the city's bowels. They need to find Scarecrow, which means they have to find about thirty (exaggeration) other people first.

The story by Hendrix and O'Reilly is actually quite inventive in how it gives new life to storied characters. The Tin Man is something of a reviled despot, pervertedly thinking that those who run the engines are there by choice. There are packs of lion-men roaming the jungle, descendants of the Cowardly Lion and ferocious warriors. It's inevitable that other familiar characters will also be on hand in a variety of new ways as well. That variety of characters may be one of the drawbacks of the book.

It appears that the story is gearing up to be a series of fetch quests so to speak. The escapees want to find the Scarecrow, but first they have to find the Wizard because only he knows where the Scarecrow is. The Wizard's location is a mystery as well, which means they have to find the Munchkins to find out where the Wizard is (and subsequently the Scarecrow). It all seems a little superfluous and hopefully more time is spent with the Tin Man and Witch of the North, as both characters appear to be villains who the reader should have the chance to get to know better.

Roumboulias' art is actually quite sharp. What really stands out is a few of the pages have an entire background scene taking up the entire page, with action panels inset within that background. It lends something of a continuity to the scene, giving the reader something to grasp in terms of getting their bearings with the setting. There's also a good mix of setting in the book, showcasing what has to be a widespread geography in the land of Oz.

Tales of Oz are those that have been around for a while and really haven't been altered much, so it's nice to see a book like Steam Engines of Oz #1 come along and offer some fresh perspective. Victoria seems to be a very important player in all of the proceedings, but the reason for that still remains to be seen. Still though, the hope that the Tin Man gets more time to devoted to him as a somewhat deranged king would be very interesting.

Steam Engines of Oz #1 is available in June (Diamong Preorder Code APR130795).

Jim Zub and Edwin Huang Join the H.A.R.D. Corps in July

2013-05-20T10:35:00.000-04:00

Members of the Harbinger Active Resistance Division are slated to begin an all-new mission in Bloodshot and H.A.R.D. Corps #14. The question those fine recruits is asking though is who will lead them on their merry way? Leave it to Jim Zub and Edwin Huang to make their Valiant debut in July with "Who Will Lead H.A.R.D. Corps?" short story.

"[We] were able to come up with a series of these little, short vignettes of the interview process," Zub told Comic Book Resources. "It's fun stuff because we get to run through a nice selection and variety of Valiant characters, some of which are appropriate, some of which are wonderfully inappropriate, how they fail the interview process and how Bloodshot succeeds over his competition."

X-O Manowar. Quantum and Woody. Archer & Armstrong. Shadowman. Bloodshot. What do these disparate champions from around the Valiant Universe have in common? They're all on the H.A.R.D. Corps' recruitment list. Now for the first time ever, Zub and Huang are bringing them together for a humorous one-shot tale of the Project Rising Spirit's latest – and perhaps last – membership drive.

Appearing as a back-up feature in each of Valiant's July releases, Zub and Huang's "Who Will Lead the H.A.R.D. Corps?" short will be available in Shadowman #8, Quantum and Woody #1, X-O Manowar #15, Harbinger Wars #4, Archer & Armstrong #11, Harbinger #14 and Bloodshot #13. The first appearance of the H.A.R.D. Corps shouldn't be missed on June 12 in Harbinger Wars #3.

Full press release below.

JIM ZUB and EDWIN HUANG Humor the H.A.R.D. CORPS for VALIANT in July!

This summer, before the weaponized men and women of the Harbinger Active Resistance Division begin an all-new new mission in Bloodshot and H.A.R.D Corps #14, all of the Valiant Universe will be asking the same question – "Who will lead the H.A.R.D. Corps?"

Valiant is proud to announce that writer Jim Zub and artist Edwin Huang, the acclaimed creative team of Skullkickers, will make their Valiant debut this July with "Who Will Lead the H.A.R.D. Corps?" – an all-new short story starring the Valiant Universe's greatest heroes – and villains – as they send up the search for the H.A.R.D. Corps' next commanding officer!

X-O Manowar. Quantum and Woody. Archer & Armstrong. Shadowman. Bloodshot. What do these disparate champions from around the Valiant Universe have in common? They're all on the H.A.R.D. Corps' recruitment list! Now for the first time ever, Zub and Huang are bringing them together for a humorous one-shot tale of the Project Rising Spirit's latest – and perhaps last – membership drive.

"[We] were able to come up with a series of these little, short vignettes of the interview process," Zub told Comic Book Resources. "It's fun stuff because we get to run through a nice selection and variety of Valiant characters, some of which are appropriate, some of which are wonderfully inappropriate, how they fail the interview process and how Bloodshot succeeds over his competition."

Appearing as a back-up feature in each of Valiant's July releases, Zub and Huang's "Who Will Lead the H.A.R.D. Corps?" short will be available in Shadowman #8, Quantum and Woody #1, X-O Manowar #15, Harbinger Wars #4 (of 4), Archer & Armstrong #11, Harbinger #14 and Bloodshot #13.

But first – don't miss the first appearance of the all-new, all-deadly H.A.R.D. Corps on June 12th in Harbinger Wars #3 (of 4) – the next epic milestone of Valiant's first crossover event! Then jump on board the new monthly adventures of Valiant's deadly strike force when Bloodshot joins the team this September in Bloodshot and H.A.R.D Corps #14 from co-writers Christos Gage & Joshua Dysart and red-hot artist Emanuela Lupacchino!

For more information on H.A.R.D. Corps and the rest of the Valiant Universe, visit Valiant on Facebook, on Twitter, and at ValiantUniverse.com.

Follow the H.A.R.D. Corps' next action-packed appearances this summer in...

HARBINGER WARS #3 (of 4)

Written by JOSHUA DYSART & DUANE SWIERCZYNSKI

Art by CLAYTON HENRY

Cover by PATRICK ZIRCHER (APR131270)

Pullbox Exclusive Variant by TREVOR HAIRSINE (APR131271)

Variant Cover by KHARI EVANS (APR131272)

Variant Cover by PATRICK ZIRCHER (APR131274)

$3.99/T+/32 pgs.

ON SALE 6/12/13 (FOC - 5/20/13)

HARBINGER WARS #4 (of 4)

Written by JOSHUA DYSART & DUANE SWIERCZYNSKI

Art by CLAYTON HENRY

Cover by PATRICK ZIRCHER (MAY131294)

Wraparound Pullbox Variant by TREVOR HAIRSINE (MAY131295)

Variant Cover by JUAN DOE (MAY131296)

Variant Cover by STEPHANE PERGER (MAY131297)

$3.99/T+/32 pgs.

ON SALE 7/17/13 (FOC - 6/24/13)

BLOODSHOT AND H.A.R.D. CORPS #14

Written by CHRISTOS GAGE & JOSHUA DYSART

Art by EMANUELA LUPACCHINO

Cover by J.G. JONES

$3.99/T+/32 pgs.

ON SALE IN SEPTEMBER!

Aphrodite IX #1 Reprinted

2013-05-20T08:33:00.000-04:00

For whatever reason, numbers I through VIII of the Aphrodite variety just don't have the same sway that Aphrodite IX seems to have with readers. The amnesiac assassin has a way with, well, everyone and readers everywhere agree, pushing Aphrodite IX #1 to a sell-out and second printing. The title was originally created by David Wohl and David Finch, but the reboot is being taken care of by Matt Hawkins and Stjepan Sejic.

On June 12, the first issue of the relaunch will hit stores. That also happens to be the same day as the launch of the second issue and it will boast an all-new cover by Sejic. In it, Aphrodite IX awakes to find she must navigate an unrecognizable Earth that is being contended over by warring factions of the cybernetically enhanced and genetically enhanced.

Aphrodite IX #1's second printing (APR138007), Aphrodite IX #2 (APR130429) and Aphrodite IX: Reloaded (APR130445) are available now for pre-order. Full press release below.

APHRODITE IX #1 REPRINTED

Top Cow's Free Comic Book Day offering to be available for purchase

APHRODITE IX #1, the Free Comic Book Day offering from the Image Comics imprint Top Cow, is being reprinted and will be offered for sale on June 12, the same day as the relaunch's second issue. The second printing features an all-new cover by Sjepan Sejic and its cover price is $2.99.

Matt Hawkins (THINK TANK) and Stjepan Sejic (RAVINE, ARTIFACTS) have teamed up to bring back the fan-favorite green-haired, amnesiac assassin. Aphrodite IX awakes to find she must navigate an unrecognizable Earth that is being contended over by warring factions of the cybernetically enhanced and genetically enhanced.

Aphrodite IX was originally created by David Wohl and David Finch in the best-selling graphic novel published in 1996, which is being offered again as part of the relaunch in a limited edition APHRODITE RELOADED hardcover edition. The hardcover, set to be in stores this summer, features updates to the script by series co-creator and writer David Wohl.

APHRODITE IX #1's second printing (APR138007), APHRODITE IX #2 (APR130429) and APHRODITE IX: Reloaded (APR130445) are available now for pre-order.

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Defense With The BoomStick

2013-05-17T14:37:00.000-04:00

(Disclaimer: This post is an ongoing story set in a world where zombies have taken over and people are fighting to survive anyway they can. Originally it was a post of news and tips to help survivors make it one more day alive, but now it has became a story of my fight to survive and to keep on living.)

The end is in sight. By end I speak of getting out of Flagstaff or die trying. As of today I'm a bit banged up and nursing some wounds on a store rooftop. I just managed to hit the beginnings of the suburbs again as it was a tough fight through the sprawling center of the city. It was that journey through that injured me. Bleeding a little now, but my goal is at least within sight now.

There was this one particular bad spot I found myself in when I was moving down a street, sneaking from car to car. I was moving around the front end of this one SUV and ran smackdab into the back of a zombie that knocked me backwards as it turned falling onto of me. That's where I picked up one of my injuries, as I sliced my arm on the car bumper when I went down and the pleasure of pushing the zombie up away from me as I fumbled for my knife. This fight would start off one long day for me that could rival a day in the life of Jack Bauer.

For just about 24 hours I was on the run, trying to keep my wound bandaged and not leave a scent of blood for zombies to follow. I was going through storefronts and alleyways in my mad dash runathon that had zombies popping up here and there throughout. I even turned one corner at a point and skidded to a halt when a pack of about forty zombies were milling around on the street. Talk about a fun two hours, as that pack of zombies chased me in and out of buildings and only after escaping up a fire escape and being able to jump across a few building roofs did I lose them.

The only thing you can never lose is their moans, as those followed me. Even now sitting here on a roof within a stone's throw of the suburbs I still hear them. After taking off all my gear I looked over myself and found a few more wounds I didn’t realize in my running. Beyond the slice on my arm, had some scrapes and bruises on my legs had some cuts on my fingers from all the grappling and fighting I had to do. All I want to do is lie here and rest up for about a month, but I know that isn’t an option with so many zombies in the area.

In the morning, no matter how much I might still be hurting I'll recheck my bandages and get off this roof and out of this city. I plan on being at the outskirts of the suburbs by next week at this time and hopefully after that on my way to the mountains of California as I continue towards the military base out near Reno. I’m just hoping I find some sort of bicycle in one of these neighborhoods to help me get up into the mountains and a road map would definitely come in handy too.

Need to try and sleep.

Review - Skyward #1

2013-05-17T12:33:00.000-04:00

Remember the old-school JRPGs? Lufia and the Fortress of Doom? Breath of Fire? Those games that featured wide-eyed youths tasked with saving the world? They had a great feel to them that modern RPGs have lost. Fortunately, a new book called Skyward #1 from Action Lab Comics is stepping in to fill that void.

The issue is written and illustrated by Jeremy Dale, colored by Steve Downer and lettered by Thom Zahler.

Corin is a "retired" warrior, living an idyllic life with his wife Taryn, son Quinn and dog Jack. They're the perfect nuclear family for a less civilized time, making their way in the forest amidst all manner of natural creatures and plants. Their happy lives are interrupted by an old friend of Corin named Herod. Herod feels that Corin is wasting his talents as a warrior playing the role of father and homemaker, a fact that leads Quinn to end up on the run.

Dale's story is very well-paced and presents a solid foundation for an interesting series. Most of the old-school JRPGs started in a similar fashion, with a child (destined, fated, circumstances) taking to the road towards a destination. That's what really makes Skyward #1 work very well; it recognizes that Quinn's quest will be fun to follow and goes with it. Herod is set up to be the perfect bad guy and there's even a hint of fantasy with his two goblin henchmen.

Dale pulls double duty on the art as well and it works great with the story. Again, the characters and setting are very reminiscent of the look of the aforementioned JRPGs. There's a fantastical feel to the characters, with both Corin and Herod mountains of men, Taryn a doting housewife and Quinn a rambunctious youth. Panel layouts are fairly standard, with a few pages pretty crammed with rectangles. There is a great panel towards the end that amplifies the action depicted in the surrounding environment, which was a very cool effect.

There's a lot to like about Skyward #1. As a child main character, Quinn is presented with just enough naivety and curiosity that things won't be easy for him. Surely, he'll tap into something from his father considering his past occupation as a military man. Herod's exact motivations for his actions are still a little unclear, but it's expected that they'll reveal themselves as the series proceeds.

Skyward #1 is in Previews now and should be in stores soon.

You Will Answer to No One Else

2013-05-17T10:35:00.000-04:00

Image Comics wants to remind you that you will answer to no one else. Remember that as you're teased.

The Art of Bioshock Infinite Hits Second Printing

2013-05-17T08:33:00.000-04:00

People love Bioshock Infinite. The game takes players to Columbia (the city above the clouds) and is a return to form for the Bioshock franchise in general. It's so good in fact that it merited an art book from Dark Horse Comics that is equally as popular as the game, selling out its first printing and moving to a second one, due in stores July 3.

In The Art of BioShock Infinite, delve deeper into the sky city of Columbia and its inhabitants. This deluxe hardcover features an introduction by creative director Ken Levine and production designs and concept illustrations focusing on main characters Booker DeWitt, Elizabeth and Songbird from BioShock Infinite. See the evolution of Sky-Hooks, Heavy Hitters, the populace of Columbia, Vigors, airships and much more.

The second printing of The Art of BioShock Infinite can be ordered with the code OCT120060. Full press release below.

THE ART OF BIOSHOCK INFINITE SOLD OUT!

REPRINT TO ARRIVE AT RETAIL STORES ON JULY 3!

MAY 13, MILWAUKIE, OR—Following the same pattern as other stunning Dark Horse art books, Diamond Comics and many retailers around the country are now sold out of the critically acclaimed The Art of BioShock Infinite.

In response, Dark Horse is reprinting the popular art book. The reprint is available for reorder now, with an on-sale date of July 3.

In The Art of BioShock Infinite, delve deeper into the sky city of Columbia and its inhabitants. This deluxe hardcover features an introduction by creative director Ken Levine and production designs and concept illustrations focusing on main characters Booker DeWitt, Elizabeth, and Songbird from the BioShock Infinite video game. See the evolution of Sky-Hooks, Heavy Hitters, the populace of Columbia, Vigors, airships, and much more!

Irrational Games’ BioShock Infinite was the best-selling console title in March of this year and is the highest-rated game of 2013 to date, with perfect review scores from Game Informer, Eurogamer, USA Today, the Associated Press, Entertainment Weekly, and many more.

Praise for The Art of BioShock Infinite:

“Once again on a roll, Dark Horse have given video game fans and life-long enthusiasts

one of the best art books to ever be released.”—Shogun Gamer

“Dark Horse’s The Art of BioShock Infinite is a wild ride for Infinite fans and even those just looking for another classy coffee table book to impress their geeky company. The early sketches, unused ideas, and various portraits and paintings are reason enough to pay the admission price, and this is one example of how to do an art book right.”—Popzara

Fans: Head to your local comic shop or bookstore to get your hands on a copy of the first printing of The Art of BioShock Infinite while you can! Supplies are limited, and demand is high!

Retailers: The second printing of The Art of BioShock Infinite can be ordered with the code OCT120060. It is also featured in today’s edition of Diamond Daily.

Review - Zombie Tycoon 2: Brainhov's Revenge

2013-05-16T12:36:00.000-04:00

If you could command an army of zombies to do your bidding as you take over the world or seek your revenge could you manage the pressure? Frima Studios poses that question with their latest game Zombie Tycoon 2: Brainhov’s Revenge, now on the Playstation 3 and PSP Vita.

In Zombie Tycoon 2: Brainhov's Revenge, you bounce between two main characters: Tycoon and Brainhov. Each character controls a different style of zombies. Tycoon's zombies are slow tanks and Brainhov's are faster and weaker. Each one is also a different color to help keep the zombies separate. At times the stages can get hectic and overwhelming when a huge horde of zombies is duking it out to see who wins. On top of having a horde of zombies at your disposal you get a few extra useful tools to aid you in the fight.

The mobile spawner Tycoon or Brainhov drives not only spit out your replacement zombies, but they also have turrets on top that can mow down other zombies or attack buildings. You also get a monster to cause some damage to your opponents, with a variety of them with all their own abilities. Choosing the right monster can help turn the tide in battle. Over the course of a stage or multiplayer match you build up a horde pack that you can unleash to help distract your opponent and let your stronger forces get in to cause some damage.

In each stage are buildings dotting the landscape that you can attack to capture that add to the total number of horde zombies you have at your disposal. This horde is something that has to recharge once used, but does come in handy to scout a new area in addition to doing some fighting for you. In one stage I had about 60 zombies in my horde and when I sent them to take on a pack of gun toting humans they didn't stand chance. Certain buildings you come across add to your horde count, but also turn your regular spawning zombies into specialty type zombies.

These specialty zombies include ninjas, engineers, feral scouts, sunflower spies, radioactive ones or even boxing zombies that can change the tide of a battle. The zombies really give you a great feeling sending your mass of zombies across the stage, taking out buildings and other zombies in their wake. Every stage has the classic fog of war on it leaving it up to you sending your zombies out to uncover what sort of buildings or possible enemies could be around you.

The game is super easy to play, with each of the four buttons on the controller controlling a certain group from your mobile spawner, monsters and two different packs of zombies, with each being able to turn into different types when you find the building on the map. In story mode, each stage tells you the parameters of how to beat it as well as optional missions you can take on if you are a bit of a perfectionist. After every mission you get a list of the goals you accomplished and what you missed with the option to replay the mission if you missed something.

Multiplayer is pretty fun too. One of the cooler functions is cross-platform play between the Playstation 3 and the PSP Vita. You wouldn’t even know what your opponent was playing on and it doesn’t take away from the gameplay at all. The multiplayer aspect is the perfect complement to the story that makes Zombie Tycoon 2: Brainhov's Revenge just a fun all-around game. I've had an awesome time playing the game and look forward to finishing up the story mode and getting my hands on the multiplayer mode to test my skills of commanding my zombies to victory. The new addition in the series is welcoming to all manners of players. With a story that doesn’t take itself too seriously, easy gameplay mechanics and a great multiplayer mode, Zombie Tycoon 2: Brainhov's Revenge is a downright fun game.

Preview - Transformers: Prime - Rage of the Dinobots TPB

2013-05-16T10:36:00.000-04:00

Dinobots. Cybertron. Optimus Prime. And the Ark. It's all Transformers in Transformers: Prime - Rage of the Dinobots TPB.

The work features the talents of Mike Johnson, Mairghread Scott and Agustin Padilla. Check out the interiors below and the book in stores now.

Six Gun Gorilla Hits Stores in June

2013-05-16T08:30:00.000-04:00

Gorillas are fearful enough as it is, but put six guns in their hands and things get even more ridiculous. Well, not quite six guns; six-shooters to be precise. In June, Simon Spurrier and Jeff Stokely will blend the two together in Six Gun Gorilla.

“The words “Six-Gun Gorilla” have squatted in my psyche – as immovable as only a revolver-packin’ primate can be – since I first heard them. How could I pass up the chance to breathe new life into such an insane, evocative title (so sinfully neglected since its inception as a 1939 pulp serial)?” explained Spurrier, “In deference to its unknown writer, our new version has mutated into a comic unlike any other: a relentless blast of deconstructive weirdness, gunsmoke, surreal frontiers and Awesome Ape Action. Six-Gun Gorilla is a head-poppin’, civil-warrin’, wilderness-crossin’ epic with sly sci-fi notes: a love-letter to the Western genre, signed with a flourish by a black-furred and blood-drenched fist.”

Welcome to “the Blister” -- a bizarre other-world colonized by humans sometime in the 22nd century, which quickly became a hotly-contested source of fertile land and natural resources long ago exhausted on Earth. In this new frontier, a rogue gunslinger and his companion wander across a wilderness in the grips of a civil war, encountering lawlessness, natives, and perversions of civilization in a world at the crossroads between the past and the future. The fact that said gunslinger is a bio-surgically modified silverback gorilla toting a pair of enormous revolvers is neither here nor there.

Six Gun Gorilla #1 will arrive in stores on June 12th with a cover by Ramón Pérez and carries a retail price of $3.99 under Diamond order code APR130933. And don’t forget to ask your retailer about the incentive cover by James Harren. Full press release below.

BOOM! STUDIOS REVEALS
SIMON SPURRIER'S SIX - GUN GORILLA
IN STORES IN JUNE

May 15, 2013 - Los Angeles, CA - This June, BOOM! Studios launches a bold new mash-up of Western and Sci-Fi with SIX-GUN GORILLA. Because the only thing better than a gorilla in a comic book is a gorilla with gigantic, matching six-shooters.

Inspired by an obscure public domain character, SIX-GUN GORILLA is created and written by Simon Spurrier (X-MEN: LEGACY, CROSSED: WISH YOU WERE HERE) with interior art by Jeff Stokely (FRAGGLE ROCK, THE REASON FOR DRAGONS) and featuring a cover by Eisner Award-winning artist Ramón Pérez (A TALE OF SAND, WOLVERINE & THE X-MEN), SIX - GUN GORILLA is a pulpy mash-up of Western weirdness and lo-fi science fiction unlike anything else on the stands!

Welcome to “the Blister” -- a bizarre other-world colonized by humans sometime in the 22nd century, which quickly became a hotly-contested source of fertile land and natural resources long ago exhausted on Earth. In this new frontier, a rogue gunslinger and his companion wander across a wilderness in the grips of a civil war, encountering lawlessness, natives, and perversions of civilization in a world at the crossroads between the past and the future. The fact that said gunslinger is a bio-surgically modified silverback gorilla toting a pair of enormous revolvers is neither here nor there.

“The words “Six-Gun Gorilla” have squatted in my psyche – as immovable as only a revolver-packin’ primate can be – since I first heard them. How could I pass up the chance to breathe new life into such an insane, evocative title (so sinfully neglected since its inception as a 1939 pulp serial)?” explained Spurrier, “In deference to its unknown writer, our new version has mutated into a comic unlike any other: a relentless blast of deconstructive weirdness, gunsmoke, surreal frontiers and Awesome Ape Action. Six-Gun Gorilla is a head-poppin’, civil-warrin’, wilderness-crossin’ epic with sly sci-fi notes: a love-letter to the Western genre, signed with a flourish by a black-furred and blood-drenched fist.”

SIX - GUN GORILLA #1 will arrive in stores on June 12th with a cover by Ramón Pérez and carries a retail price of $3.99 under Diamond order code APR130933. And don’t forget to ask your retailer about the incentive cover by James Harren (B.P.R.D.)!

About BOOM! Studios