Sci-Fi Adventure from Robert Kirkman and an All-Star Creative Team

Prepare to journey into a future where Earth coexists with alien species—and where scoundrels, thieves, and cosmic horrors lurk behind every asteroid. Skybound and Image Comics have announced Blood & Thunder, an all-new comic book series that fuses space-age spectacle with hard-hitting action. Debuting on May 7, 2025, this explosive six-issue saga features scriptwork by Benito Cereno (Invincible Presents: Atom Eve), dynamic art by E.J. Su (Tech Jacket), vibrant color from MSassyK (Gotham Academy), and lettering by Rus Wooton(TRANSFORMERS). But the mind behind the concept—lurking in the background with creative consulting—is none other than Robert Kirkman, the visionary behind The Walking Dead and Invincible.

Monsters, Aliens, and a Talking Gun

At first glance, the premise might sound like classic space Western fare: a formidable bounty hunter named Akeldama “Blood” Bledsoe tracks dangerous fugitives across interstellar frontiers. But the twist? Blood’s cantankerous gun, nicknamed Thunder, has a mind—and mouth—of its own. Set in a not-so-distant future where alien races thrive alongside humankind, Blood & Thunder quickly elevates its cosmic crime story to something more intriguing and unpredictable.

When the galaxy’s most notorious criminal breaks free from a high-security prison, Blood embarks on a personal quest that unravels secrets about her own tangled history. And in the tradition of Skybound’s adrenaline-fueled comics, those revelations promise to shatter not just Blood’s life, but the entire space-colony she calls home.

“Monsters! Aliens! Space! Talking Guns! I dare you to find a comic that’s more exciting!”
—Robert Kirkman

From the Minds Behind Invincible & Tech Jacket

This new project unites creators who’ve already earned their intergalactic stripes. Writer Benito Cereno has explored superhero mythos in Invincible Presents: Atom Eve and proven his flair for deep characterization. E.J. Su redefined mechs and futuristic warfare in Tech Jacket, bringing a clean yet energetic style that soars on every page. Meanwhile, colorist MSassyK (whose past work includes DC’s Gotham Academy) infuses the panels with bold, saturated hues—an essential ingredient for a galaxy brimming with star-lit battles and alien species.

“I can’t wait for everyone to see the vibrant and explosive energy E.J. brings to each new environment,”Benito Cereno enthuses.
“If you love monsters, aliens, creatures, and going on adventures in strange new worlds, you’re going to love this,” E.J. Su adds, hinting at an adventure that goes beyond run-of-the-mill sci-fi tropes.

A World of Weird & Wild

Of course, no interstellar romp would be complete without an impressive gallery of variant covers to capture that cosmic chaos. Blood & Thunder #1 launches with a main cover by E.J. Su & MSassyK, plus additional variants from:

• David Lopez (open-to-order)
• Andie Tong & Rex Lokus (1:10 incentive)
• Bernard Chang (1:25 incentive)
• J. Scott Campbell (1:50 incentive)
• A blank sketch cover, perfect for collectors wanting a personal touch

With each cover sporting different takes on Blood, Thunder, and the bizarre landscapes of this far-flung future, fans can dive into the universe from multiple artistic angles.

Skybound’s Ongoing Legacy

The partnership between Skybound and Image is no stranger to redefining what comics can achieve, having spawned unforgettable worlds like Invincible and The Walking Dead. Helmed by a creator-driven mindset, Skybound has cultivated a reputation for giving top-tier talent the freedom to develop their visions—whether it’s spawning entire new galaxies or injecting life into iconic franchises. That synergy has produced some of the biggest hits in modern comics, including multiple #1 bestsellers and record-breaking Kickstarter campaigns.

“Blood & Thunder brings a mix of high-octane asskickery with epic scope and a deep desire to grab readers and keep them guessing,” says Senior Editor Nachie Marsham. “The world is big, the story is focused, and the art is a blast.”

Release Details

• Title: Blood & Thunder #1
• Publisher: Skybound & Image Comics
• Release Date: May 7, 2025
• Cover Price: $3.99
• Contributors:
  • Story Concept & Creative Consulting: Robert Kirkman
  • Writer: Benito Cereno
  • Artist: E.J. Su
  • Colorist: MSassyK
  • Letterer: Rus Wooton

Fans can pick up Blood & Thunder #1 at their favorite local comic shop or via digital platforms like Amazon Kindle, Apple Books, and Google Play. With an impressive team ready to unleash cosmic chaos, it’s safe to say that come May, the stars will be aligned for one thunderous debut.

In a galaxy brimming with lawless outlaws, advanced alien civilizations, and a bounty hunter toting a snarky, sentient firearm, Blood & Thunder is set to jolt the comics scene. If you’ve been craving an intergalactic blend of monstrous foes, electric action, and a dash of irreverent humor—this new series from Skybound and Image might just blast off onto your pull list. Don’t say Robert Kirkman didn’t warn you: “Blood & Thunder! Shut up!”