PAX East 2013: Frima Studios

Zombies and Nuns. What could theses two things possibly have in common? One is out to destroy life and eat everything in its wake. The other is there to help and save others. The one thing they have in common is that both are the subject of games in the works, courtesy of Frima Studios. At PAX East I had the chance to check out Zombie Tycoon 2 and Nun Attack, both on the PlayStation Vita. While Nun Attack is also on Android and iOS, Zombie Tycoon 2 is only on the PSN and the Vita. Both are fun games that have totally different gameplay styles, yet are easy to pick up and jump right in.

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Defense With The BoomStick

(Defense With The BoomStick 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.)

Finally caught a break.

After a week of putting much needed distance between me and the supply drop I found, I finally surveyed a spot that should have a good bit of supplies I need. The place is this little convenience store along the road, with one little problem. There are about thirty zombies milling about the area that are in between me and the supplies.

The only reason I'm risking trying to get in there (as the whole place is bound and sealed pretty tight with no signs of anyone else breaking in) is that there must be stuff in there. Still think it's really odd that these zombies are staying in this area and not moving on. They must know something is up or is in the area that keeps them here.

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Review - Savage Skullkickers #1

Savage. Uncanny. Angry. All adjectives. All relevant descriptors of a couple of folks who excel at kicking things. Skulls to be exact. As in Savage Skullkickers #1 from Image Comics.

The second (first?) issue is written by Jim Zub, with pencils by Edwin Huang, inks by Huang and Kevin Raganit, colors by Misty Coats and Ross A. Campbell, color flatting by Ludwig Olimba and letters by Marshall Dillon.

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BOOM! Studios Reveals Final Regular Show #1 Covers

A comic book debut wouldn't be a regular comic book debut without a slew of covers to go with it. Regular Show #1 is really making sure its regular by debuting with six covers. Six covers! BOOM! Studios has finally revealed all six covers of the new series created by J.G. Quintel.

March 28, 2013 - Los Angeles, CA - BOOM! Studios is thrilled to reveal the final covers for REGULAR SHOW #1, an all-new, all-ages ongoing comic book series based on Cartoon Network’s Emmy® Award-winning series created by J.G. Quintel. Initial orders for the first issue, which ships in April, were the highest of any KaBOOM! series to date.

The highly-anticipated series will be written by web cartoonist KC Green and illustrated by Allison Strejlau. Covers are by Nick Edwards, Nathan Fox, Phil McAndrew, John Allison, Brian Butler and Chuck BB. There's also a special pre-order variant by Chris Houghton and an incentive variant by Dustin Nguyen. The new comics will follow the antics of Mordecai, a blue jay, and Rigby, a raccoon, a couple of best bros in their twenties just tryin’ to chill for a bit, man. But when you’re livin’ in as crazy a world as they are, no day can be called...regular!

Full press release below.

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Zenescope at WonderCon 2013

When Zenescope makes their way to a convention, you can be sure of two things: twists on fairy tales and covers dripping in sex appeal. The publisher is making sure to bring both to WonderCon 2013 at booth #605. The exclusives include GFT Jungle Book: Last of the Species #1 cover E (limited to 500 copies), Grimm Fairy Tales #83 cover C (limited to 500 copies) and Grimm Fairy Tales #83 cover D (limited to 100 copies).

The company will also be having a panel on Grimm Fairy Tales Animated, which will be hosted by director Jon Schnepp. The panel will be held in room 208 on Friday, March 29th from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM. This will be an opportunity for fans to watch never-before-seen footage from the making of the pilot.

“The support we receive from our fan base is amazing” states Stephen Haberman, marketing manager for Zenescope. “WonderCon is great opportunity for us to connect with our fans. With our Grimm Fairy Tales Animated panel, some great exclusives, signings and especially giveaways, we’re sure our fans will love what we’re bringing to the show.”

Full press release below.

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Interview - Michael Levine (Usagi Yojimbo: The Way of the Ronin)

Usagi Yojimbo: The Way of the Ronin is one hell of an awesome game on iOS and Android. At PAX East 2013, the creators of this amazing game Happy Giant Media had a booth set up showcasing the game. I had a chance to speak with the CEO of Happy Giant Media Michael Levine and pick his brain about the game.

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Review - Robyn Hood vs. Red Riding Hood One-Shot

When Red Riding Hood travels to grandma's house, she encounters the Big Bad Wolf. When she travels through Sherwood Forest, she encounters a well-versed archer with a penchant for helping the downtrodden. In Zenescope, when the two meet, it's in a one shot called Robyn Hood vs. Red Riding Hood One-Shot from Zenescope Entertainment.

The one-shot is written by Pat Shand, with pencils by David Cutler and JG Miranda, colors by 3martstudio and lettered by Jim Campbell.

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Archaia Travels to WonderCon

Anaheim. Easter weekend. Indie publishers. Archaia. That's all you need to know, but if you're a big fan of Archaia, then you might want to pay attention. The publisher will be there, bringing along a full suite of creators.

“With con season in full swing, we are excited to unleash our Spring lineup,” exclaimed Archaia President Jack Cummins. “We have seen great response to just-released titles like The Dark Crystal Vol. 2, Iron, Cursed Pirate Girl, Rust Vol. 2, and others. At WonderCon, we will be showcasing our most immediate releases such as HAWKEN: GENESIS, Mumbai Confidential, and Pantalones, TX. Come by our booth and meet our creators—the best in the business!”

Among the creators on hand will be Chris Northrop, F.J. DeSanto, Heather Nuhfer, John Chandler, Khang Le, Moro Rogers, Paul Morrissey, R.J. Ryan, Sam Humphries, Saurav Mohapatra and Tom Pinchuk. Fans who visit the booth will get sneak peeks of “look books” of several forthcoming Archaia titles in production, including Cyborg 009, The Reason for Dragons, and The Joyners in 3D.

The booth will have some promotions going on as well. For instance, fans using FourSquare will have a chance to win a graphic novel prize pack containing copies of Fraggle Rock Vol. 1, Fraggle Rock Vol. 2: Tails and Tales, The Dark Crystal: Creation Myths Vol. 1 and The Dark Crystal: Creation Myths Vol. 2. Another will use Instagram, giving fans a chance to win a prize pack containing copies of Mouse Guard Vol. 1: Fall 1152, Rust Vol. 1 and Cursed Pirate Girl. Those who purchase Hawken: Genesis at the booth will get a scratch-off card containing a code redeemable for 10,000 in-game credits. And those who attend Archaia's WonderCon panel will get a coupon to get a free copy of Archaia’s 2012 Free Comic Book Day hardcover, Mouse Guard, Labyrinth and Other Stories.

Full press release below.

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BOOM! Studios at WonderCon 2013

Easter weekend is quickly descending upon us and this year it also happens to be the same weekend as WonderCon 2013. The show brings all sorts, including BOOM! Studios.

Attendees of this years show will have a chance to get a first look at the Regular Show comic series. The Regular Show Preview Book will be available exclusively at the BOOM! booth (#1019) almost a full month before the first issue will be in stores. The Preview Book includes a preview of the first issue by K.C. Green and Allison Strejlau along with a four-page short story written and illustrated by Brian Butler and colored by Maarta Laiho. Rounding out the Preview issue will be a look at the covers from Regular Show. The 24-page limited edition preview will be sold for $4.99.

BOOM! Studios is also teaming up with Fifth Son to give away 100 Regular Show t-shirts over the course of the weekend. In addition to that, Sam Humphries will be doing a signing on Saturday at 4 PM.

Full press release below.

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Asylum Press Releases Digital First Horror Anthology EEEK! #10 Preview

EEEK! #10 is all set to be released by Asylum Press. They're amped for it too, even going so far as preparing to release it on all digital platforms. Not only that, but it's also a digital first, written by Jason Paulos.

“Jason Paulos is an amazing talent,” says publisher Frank Forte, “he writes and draws almost the entire book. And he draws in different styles to make it look like there are different artists. EEEK! will appeal to fans of classic horror comics of the 70's and 80's but also to a new generation of fans who like to laugh and gag. We hope to reach a worldwide fanbse with the digital release.”

The issue includes three all new tales of terror. First up is The Emissary, a sci-fi tale of armageddon and rebirth. In The Heist a crooks paranoia gets the better of him. And finally False Alarm delivers a lonely limey who pays the price for wanting a simple cup of tea.

The issue is available now with a preview available.

Full press release below.

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Zenescope Entertainment Bringing in the Digital First Titles

Zenescope is hip to this digital first thing. The once foreign concept has been changing the dynamic of how readers read, purchase and enjoy comics. The digital frontier is getting bolder and bolder, garnering books acting as digital firsts (which are exactly what they sound like). Starting April 2013, the publisher will introduce a line of such digital firsts, spreading over their wide ranging catalogue.

Said Zenescope Editor-in-Chief Ralph Tedesco, “We’ve spent several years growing the Zenescope brand but digital publishing gives us more flexibility and allows us to step outside of the horror and fantasy genres and bring some other titles we’re passionate about into the mix. And we can offer these books at a lower cost to readers.”

Zenescope is planning to offer most #1 issues of its digital first titles free of charge for one week upon release and for between $0.99 to $1.99 thereafter. A list if the planned digital first releases for 2013 include Family Pets, Monster Hunters' Survival Guide, SciFi & Fantasy, Guardians and Suckers.

Full press release below.

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PAX East 2013: Wrapping Up

The weekend is done and PAX East 2013 is over. Even though the work week can be tiring this past weekend at PAX was tiring in its own way. From all the people to the games to the cosplayers, it was one of those weekends that will keep you going just to see as much as you can. Today we're going to look back at the weekend and think about all the great new games coming out. Elder Scrolls Online, Watch Dogs, Last of Us and even a remastered DuckTales game; just games upon games to check out and try.

Every year PAX East gets bigger and bigger. This year's was no exception with those few games everybody was crowding to see and play with these being the most notable ones that I checked out. A lot of times you have to pick and choose what you want to see as you will be waiting in line a lot and there is just no way to see it all.

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Review - East of West #1

The Civil War was such a violent time in the history of the US. The concept of slavery was so divisive that it ripped apart a country still in its infancy of independence; an instance where the things that divide us are stronger than the things that unite us. It's a feeling that resonates equally as strong (and is the tagline) in East of West #1 from Image Comics.

The title is written by Jonathan Hickman, with art by Nick Dragotta, colors by Frank Martin and letters by Rus Wooton.

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Aspen Reveals WonderCon Anaheim 2013 Exclusives and Creator Appearances

Aspen is hitting up WonderCon this weekend in Anaheim. Fans of the publisher will want to hit them up at the show if they're attending for all the requisite goodies that a publisher like Aspen brings to a show like WonderCon. At Booth #701, there will be something worth everyone's while.

Aspen creators Frank Mastromauro, Peter Steigerwald, Vince Hernandez, Mark Roslan, J.T. Krul, Beth Sotelo, Mike DeBalfo, Nei Ruffiino, David Wohl, Lori Hanson and Jonathan Marks will all be appearing throughout the weekend at the Aspen Comics Booth. Aspen is also offering two highly-limited show exclusives: Legend of the Shadow Clan #3 will be released early at the show with a special Wondercon Anaheim exclusive cover by DeBalfo and colored by Steigerwald and limited to 200 copies. Aspen will also be releasing an Executive Assistant: Assassins #9 WonderCon cover by Giuseppe Cafaro and David Curiel, limited to 200 copies.

To continue their ten-year anniversary celebration, Aspen is releasing the Aspen Tour Print 2013 WonderCon Anniversary Edition, with art by Michael Turner and Steigerwald, limited to 125 editions. Aspen will also be releasing all new prints featuring Soulfire, The Legend of the Shadow Clan and Shrugged. The “Ten Years of Aspen Comics” panel will take place on Saturday, March 30th in room 208 from 3:30 – 4:30 pm and will feature all of Aspen’s creative talents as they answer fans’ questions and reveal what’s in store for the next ten years of Aspen Comics. Aspen Editor-in-Chief Vince Hernandez will also be offering portfolio reviews all weekend for aspiring artists in room 206b.

Full press release below.

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Valiant Reviving Quantum & Woody

The world's worst superhero team pretty much became the world's worst secret in recent days, thanks to Twitter primarily. No matter to Valiant Entertainment, as they're still proud to announce that Quantum & Woody #1 is all set to debut on July 10. It will feature the talents of James Asmus, Tom Fowler and Jordie Bellaire.

"Quantum and Woody are one of the most beloved superhero duos in comics. There's a rich history to draw on here and we have some very exciting things on deck for Quantum and Woody in 2013 and beyond," said Valiant Executive Editor Warren Simons.

Once upon a time, Eric and Woody Henderson were inseparable. Adopted brothers. Best friends. Brilliant minds. Years later, they are estranged siblings, petty rivals, and washed-up failures. But when their father’s murder leads them into the throes of a life-altering scientific accident, Eric and Woody will find themselves with a whole new purpose – and a perfectly legitimate reason to wear costumes and fight crime. Go big or go home, folks! Quantum and Woody are coming! And the action-packed, zeitgeist-shredding exploitation stunt comic you demanded is here at last.

"Since the day X-O Manowar #1 hit shelves, everywhere we've turned, fans have been demanding that Quantum and Woody step back into the spotlight," said Quantum and Woody Editor Jody LeHeup. "James, Tom and Jordie are delivering a smart, heart-filled take on the team that will be central to the new Valiant Universe, and one that honors the spirit and bravado of what came before."

Launched by Christopher Priest and M.D. Bright for Acclaim Entertainment's rebooted Valiant Universe in 1997, Quantum and Woody became one of the most beloved independent superhero titles of the decade, spawning a rabid and loyal following that endures to this day. Most recently, Valiant Entertainment re-issued the entirety of the original series for the first time digitally via comiXology.

"In all of comics, there's no other book that mixed style and substance quite like Quantum and Woody. I was willing to literally kill someone for the chance to write the relaunch for the new Valiant Universe. I might have. Those first days after I got the call are a blur. But Quantum and Woody isn't (just) a superhero book – it's action-comedy, it's family drama, it's a boys-meet-goat tale that tugs at the heartstrings," said Asmus.

Full press release below.

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PAX East 2013: Lords of New York

Poker. At times, it's a fun game when you're winning it all and other times, it's the worst that can be as you lose it all. What if in between the poker matches there was a story of betrayal, backstabbing, redemption and a chance for a new life, all unfolding before you could you win the hands that save your life? If you are looking for a new take on an old world game, Lords of New York will be one game to look forward to next year.

Lords of New York is being developed by Lunchtime Studios, their first foray into a big time iOS, MAC and PC game that brings out a great story with some good, balanced poker gameplay, that all levels of poker players can pick up and enjoy.

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Review - Shadowman #5

Sadly, Mr. Twist is no more. Of course, nothing is ever final in comics, which means all may not be lost. In the present though, Shadowman #5 from Valiant Comics pits Shadowman against a new foe. A few foes to be exact.

The issue is written by Justin Jordan and Patrick Zircher, illustrated by Zircher, Lee Garbett, Stefano Gaudiano and Roberto Delatorre, with colors by Brian Reber and letters by Rob Steen.

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Action Lab Formally Announces Danger Zone

The group has been in business for a while now, but nothing like a press release to make it official. Action Lab Entertainment wants to make sure that everyone is invited to the Danger Zone, the mature readers imprint rife with horror titles. And starting this May, those books start hitting stores, offering readers something a little different than what Action Lab readers are used to.

Comic shops can already order titles such as new ongoing series Ehmm Theory and Ghost Town, as well as the original graphic novel, The Trip. On top of that will be four more titles: the ongoing The Final Plague, Night of the 80’s Undead, the TPB collection of Double Jumpers and the SubCulture Omnibus following for pre-order in June. There will be even more new titles, like the cult hit Zombie Tramp to release in the months to come.

With the emphasis on fun no-limits content, titles offered range from comedy, to horror, to science fiction, to whatever creators can dream up. Danger Zone is the place where anything goes, both for readers and creators. As with any independent publisher, Action Lab is tirelessly working to get this exciting material in front of as many eyes as possible, so be sure to check Danger Zone and these new titles out on the web and in the Diamond Previews catalog when you see them. Interested readers can get a PDF sampler for the line here.

Full press release below.

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Dream Thief Brings Action Figure Action

While Dream Thieft isn't slated to hit stores until May, Dark Horse isn't going to leave you in a lurch. To fill that void, check out the paper doll and costume to act out expected scenes from the book. It carries a Diamond Order Code of MAR130014.

Jai Nitz and Greg Smallwood want you to check out the other part of the action figure below.

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Review - The Answer #3

Responding to a question is half the fun. Spending some time exploring the response makes things a tad more exciting. The Answer #3 from Dark Horse Comics is the latest in the miniseries that responds to the question of what it means to have unbridled intelligence.

The third issue is written by Dennis Hopeless, illustrated by Mike Norton, colored by Mark Englert and lettered by Crank!.

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PAX East 2013: State of Decay

What will you do when the zombie apocalypse hits? Fight to survive? Curl up into a ball and wait for the end? Or decide to scavenge, scrounge and work with others to survive it all? Decisions have to be made. Coming soon to Xbox Live Arcade is State of Decay, which helps you answer those questions and show what sort of mettle you are made of. This game is one that combines many different elements of the gaming world with RPG, sandbox and action-adventure, all rolled into one that will let you see if you have what it takes in this ever changing game environment.

State of Decay is brought to you by the folks from Undead Labs based in Seattle, who focus on bringing the big world MMO style of game to console players for a rich, vast and fun experience. The studio was at PAX East this past weekend and I had a chance to check out their vision for what the zombie outbreak would look like; in short, it looks awesome. With tons of different weapons to use, items to find and choices to make that affect gameplay, fans of all different types of games will find something in State of Decay that will pull them in and keep them playing.

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Dark Horse Announces WonderCon 2013 Schedule

Last year, PAX East managed to fall over Easter weekend. It's a big show on a bigger weekend for some, so naturally, the timing wasn't right for everyone to attend. It looks like WonderCon is going through something similar in 2013, as the show is slated to run March 29-31. Have no fear though! Publishers like Dark Horse will be making their presence known at the big show, bringing a ton of talent and exclusives.

Some of the signings will feature the likes of Larry Marder, Josh Williamson, Gene Yang, Dan Parsons, Stan Sakai, Jane Espenson, Brad Bell, Robert Love, David Walker, Eric Nguyen, Georges Jeanty, Andrew Chambliss, Christos Gage, Carlos D'Anda, Gabe Eltaeb, Gerard Way, Aleksi Briclot, Jean-Max Moris, Mat Hart, Matt Kindt, Randy Stradley, Neil Druckman, Gabriel Hardman and Corinna Bechko.

Dark Horse will be hosting quite a list of panels and will be offering tons of free stuff. Definitely worth your while to check out their booth at the show.

Full press release and schedule below.

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Defense With The BoomStick

(Defense With The BoomStick 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.)

Whoever invented canned food gets my thanks.

Over the past week, those few and far between cans I did find have kept me alive and going. Hell you don’t even have to heat them up; just crack them open and chow down.

That’s been my week. Sneaking from house to house, raiding cupboards and pantries to find anything that is in the form of edible food. It's one rough week when you don’t know if you will find food or be able to outrun that next zombie being in the condition I'm in. I was fortunate enough to find the slim pickings I did, until this one spot I searched.

From the looks of the setup someone left a little package behind filled with canned food, water and other supplies. Perhaps there are some good people left trying to help others out, but with this level of preparedness there must be another survivor or a group around here. Weary of all this could be a trap I grabbed stuff as fast as possible and got out of there.

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Review - Wild Rover Featuring the Sacrifice (One-Shot)

Dark Horse Presents is quickly becoming a great showcase of equally great new works. Michael Avon Oeming has cut his teeth once or twice in the anthology, with his short story debuting a while back. Now, Dark Horse is giving Oeming a bit more leeway in publishing Wild Rover Featuring the Sacrifice (One-Shot).

"Wild Rover" is written and illustrated by Oeming and lettered by Aaron Walker, while "The Sacrifice" is written by Oeming, with art and lettering by Victor Santos.

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UDON Headed to PAX East

Today is the first day of PAX East, the show proving the east coast can host video game conventions and get lots of attendance. The show is sold out through all days and there's a good chance that some of attendees will want to swing by UDON's booth to check a few things out.

On the creator front, Edwin Huang and Joe Ng will be on hand, signing and sketching for fans all weekend. Also on hand will be Double Fine Productions founder Tim Schafter, signing at 11 AM on Saturday. There will also be the "World of Capcom" panel, moderated by Francis Mao. Up to 1,000 fans will walk away with a free gift. Oh, and there will be some books debuting at the show. The Art of Brutal Legend HC, Atelier: Artworks of Arland, Growlanser Art Works, Midori Foo's Book of Pictures, Takehito Hara: Art Works Volume 1 and Valkyria Chronicles 3: Complete Art Works.

Full press release below.

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Archaia Announces Mouse Guard: Legends of the Guard Volume 2

In just about every instance, the sequel takes what made the original good and ramps everything up a bit. Take Empire Strikes Back for instance, the best of the original trilogy and a sequel. Archaia wants you to like their sequels just as much, setting themselves up to release a fresh, second volume of Mouse Guard: Legends of the Guard; the first four issues of which aiming for a May 2013 release date.

“After winning the Eisner Award for the first volume, the talent that David has brought to the table for the second volume of Legends is incredible,” said Stephen Christy, Editor-in-Chief of Archaia. “Between industry legends like Stan Sakai, Bill Willingham, and Rick Geary to amazing up-and-comers like Cory Godbey, Mouse Guard fans are going to have a lot to look forward to in this miniseries.”

As in the first volume, Mouse Guard: Legends of the Guard Vol. 2 finds a group of mice at the June Alley Inn trying to outdo one another in a storytelling competition, spinning typically fantastic tales of the Mouse Guard and their adventures. After all, the mouse that tells the best story gets their bar tab cleared! Petersen writes and illustrates the tavern scenes, while each contributor (or team of contributors) writes and illustrates the different mouse tales.

Petersen has assembled another all-star lineup for this four-issue miniseries. The contributors to issue #1 of Mouse Guard: Legends of the Guard Vol. 2 include Stan Sakai, Ben Caldwell and the team of writer Nick Tapalansky and illustrator Alex Eckman-Lawn. Subsequent issues will include contributions from Christian Slade, Rick Geary, Jemma Salume, Jackson Sze, Cory Godbey, Eric Canete, C.P. Wilson III, Bill Willingham and fantasy illustrator Justin Gerard. Archaia will release the hardcover collection in late Fall of 2013.

“It’s been amazing to have people I admire write and draw stories for Mouse Guard,” said David Petersen. “Getting the behind-the-scenes view of their process is a treat for me. These contributors are putting together some great stories and I’m anxious for the fans to get to see what I’ve been watching come together!”

Mouse Guard: Legends of the Guard Vol. 2 #1 is available for pre-order now at your local comic book shop. To pre-order, provide your retailer with this Diamond Order Code: MAR130802.

Full press release below.

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Valiant Teases Horribly

Valiant is getting really good at putting out quality books. Occasionally though, they may put out something that not quite the best. That's ok though! Come July, everyone will find out who the World's Worst Superhero Team is. There's a good possibility it'll involve Quantum and Woody.

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Hawken: Genesis Now Available on comiXology

Next week will see Hawken: Genesis hit stores in print. That's too long for some pople though and fortunately for them, comiXology has you covered. Archaia Entertainment and Meteor Entertainment are happy to debut Hawken: Genesis as a digital first graphic novel for $9.99.

The graphic novel explores the world of Illal, the backdrop for the game of the same name. Developed alongside Khang Le, the game’s Creative Director and lead conceptual designer at developer Adhesive Games, and featuring the talent of some of the industry’s top conceptual artists, comic illustrators, and painters, the book is both a prequel and sourcebook to the epic warfare that players will experience firsthand in the video game. Readers will get an amazing look at the vast post-apocalyptic mythology behind the property and follow the stories of the pivotal individuals that determine Illal’s fate.

The title is written by Jeremy Barlow and based on an original story by Dan Jevons, with illustrations by Kody Chamberlain, Federico Dallocchio, Nathan Fox, Michael Gaydos, Bagus Hutomo, Sid Kotian, Khang Le, Christopher Moeller, Alex Sanchez, Bill Sienkiewicz and Francisco Ruiz Velasco. The print version ($19.95, hardcover, 136 pages, full color, Diamond Order Code: JAN130839, ISBN: 978-1-936393-92-3) will reach store shelves on March 27th.

Full press release below.

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Review - Black of Heart #1

Since its inception, New York City has always been a hotbed of criminal activity. The bad guys do whatever they want and the good guys do whatever they can to stop them. In Black of Heart #1 from Assailant Comics, the endless dance between the good and bad sides of the law takes another twist.

The title is written by Chris Charlton, with art by David Hollenbach and letters by Brant W. Fowler.

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Husbands Going on Tour

Last fall, Dark Horse released Husbands, a digital comic book series continuing the sitcom phenomenon telling the story of accidental gay newlyweds Brady and Cheeks. The title was written by Jane Espenson and Brad Bell and boasted an introduction by Neil Gaiman and got quite the accolades. Well, now the creative duo behind the book are taking their show on the road, traveling for a book signing tour.

“We always knew that a newlywed sitcom for the age of marriage equality was an idea that deserved to exist as a show. And we’re so thrilled to see it turned into this gorgeous book as well. The humor, the beautiful artwork from all these talented artists, all the special touches that went into it—all of that makes this something really special,” says Jane Espenson.

In this witty new graphic novel, the couple receive a mystical wedding gift that launches them on an epic adventure—a tongue-in-cheek journey through iconic genre realms—filled with obstacles that threaten to tear them apart: a superhero showdown, a fairy-tale fantasy, a Holmesian mystery, an epic galactic battle, a madcap high-school romp, and a saucy secret-spy thrill ride.

Husbands, the complete collection, arrives on March 27, 2013, and is available for preorder now through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, TFAW.com, and of course at your local comic shop. The official Husbands book tour kicks off on March 27 at the upcoming WonderCon 2013.

Full press release and signing schedule below.

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Valiant Heads West for Wondercon Anaheim

Valiant is packing up for Wondercon Anaheim 2013, which will also be their first voyage to the show. If you're planning to head that way as well over the weekend of March 29-31, then the publisher would love for you to stop by.

Visit Valiant at booth #710 all weekend long to get a sneak peek at the future of the Valiant Universe inside the pages of the Harbinger Wars Sketchbook – a FREE first look inside the biggest Valiant event of the summer. There will also be signing sessions throughout the weekend with Joshua Dysart. On top of all that, the show will see the debut of the new "Harbinger Wars blue" Valiant logo t-shirts.

On Saturday, March 30th at 4:30 PM, room 208 will play host to the "Valiant 2013: Harbinger Wars and Beyond" panel – the only place to find out everything you need to know about the Valiant Universe in 2013.

Full press release below.

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Review - Golgotha

Golgotha is presumably the name of the city where Jesus was crucified. That city clearly has meaning to many throughout the world, both religious and macabre. H.P. Lovecraft was one more preoccupied with the latter and it's the involvement of his remains at a burial site that sets the tone for Golgotha from 215 Ink.

The title is written by Andrew Harrison and illustrated by Karl Slominski.

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Preview - Judge Dredd: Origins Graphic Novel

Judge Dredd is the law. He's also the jury and executioner. The trifecta is best left to three separate parties, but ultimately, Mega-City One is stuck with Judges to mete out sentences and punishment. His origin is something of an unknown, so it's fortunate to have a book like Judge Dredd: Origins Graphic Novel to fill in the gaps.

The GN is written by John Wagner, with art by Carlos Ezquerra and Kev Walker, letters by Annie Parkhouse and covers by Brian Bolland, tells the story of how the mind-boggling metropolis of Mega-City One was created, how the Judges rose to power under the ‘Father of Justice’ Judge Fargo, and the part played by the most famous Judge of all - Joseph Dredd.

The book hits stores March 20 with interiors below.

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Graveyard of Empires Finds Army of the Dead

When it comes to war, occupation is everything. Alexander the Great rode the Macedonian army to great gains, as did Genghis Khan and his Mongols. The British empire even had their run of power for a while. Being efficient war machines isn't the only thing the three have in common though; none of them have ever been able to control Afghanistan. That history has led to its nickname of the Graveyard of Empires, a nickname that Mark Sable and Paul Azaceta are capitalizing on for their new series from Image Comics.

"Zombies are the perfect metaphor for modern insurgents," said writer Sable. "A seemingly endless foe with inscrutable motives that comes in unstoppable waves. In counter-insurgency theory, there's something we came across in our research called 'insurgent math.' It's the idea that by killing one terrorist, you can create ten more because you've inspired their friends and family. Similarly, in a world where the dead are coming back to life, anyone you kill can return to infect your comrades and turn them against you."

The series is set in present-day Afghanistan, where American troops are caught in a seemingly unending conflict with the Taliban. That is, until a new enemy enters the field: the undead. The only way to defeat them is for the Americans and Taliban to unite forces, and as former enemies become uneasy allies, tension will rise on all sides. All four issues of the book will be collected into a new trade paperback, set to be in stores on May 1.

"It was a challenge to do the book because I wanted to get it right," said artist Azaceta. "Not just the uniforms and the guns but Afghan culture and its wonderful landscape. While digging around for reference the things that surprised me most was the beauty of the country."

The book can be pre-ordered now (Diamond Comics code MAR130502, ISBN 978-1-60706-739-9). A 128-page full-color graphic novel, its retail price $14.99. The first issue is available digitally for free from comiXology and the Image Comics iOS app.

Full press release below.

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2k Games Goes Big at PAX East 2013

2K Games may not be showing anything at PAX East this year, they're still going to be roaming the floor. Well, roaming the floor until it's time for one of their three panels at the show.

The first panel is called "Strategy Masterminds Mega Panel - Behind the Scenes at Firaxis Games" on Saturday, March 23, from 4:30-5:30 PM in the Phoenix Theatre. On hand will be Jake Solomon (Lead Designer, Firaxis), Greg Foertsch (Lead Artist, Firaxis), Ed Beach (Lead Designer, Firaxis), Dennis Shirk (Senior Producer, Firaxis)and the panel will be moderated by Russ Pitts. In the panel, attendees will learn the recipe to making incredible strategy games from the teams behind the critically acclaimed XCOM: Enemy Unknown and the Civilization franchises. And if that's not enough, the panel will also offer the world premiere of the first gameplay for Sid Meier's Civilization V: Brave New World.

The second panel is called "From Shodan to Big Daddies to Elizabeth: The Evolution of an AI Companion with Irrational Games and IGN" takes place Saturday, March 23 from 12:00-1:00 PM in the Phoenix Theatre. Panelists will include Casey Lynch (Head of Brand and Community, IGN), Ken Levine (Creative Director, Irrational Games), Drew Holmes (Writer, Irrational Games), John Abercrombie (Lead Programmer, Irrational Games), Amanda Jeffrey (Level Designer, Irrational Games), Courtnee Draper (Voice Actress) and Heather Gordon (Motion Capture Actress). The panel will offer fans an inside look at the making of Elizabeth, your companion in BioShock Infinite.

Finally, "Inside Gearbox Software," taking place on Sunday, March 24, from 12:30=1:30 PM in the Main Theater. On the panel will be Randy Pitchford (CEO of Gearbox Software), Mikey Neumann (Chief Creative Champion at Gearbox Software), Anthony Burch (Lead Writer for Borderlands 2 at Gearbox Software) and Paul Hellquist (Creative Director for Borderlands 2 at Gearbox Software). Fans will be able to get a behind the scenes look at Gearbox Software and all their favorite Gearbox games including Borderlands 2.

Full panel list below.

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Review - Saga #11

Family pulls together in trying times. The frequency of those times being to escape a giant space fetus are few and far between for sure, but that won't stop parents, sons, daughters-in-law and ghost from uniting. That's the scenario that plays out in Saga #11 from Image Comics.

Brian K. Vaughan continues writing, Fiona Staples continues illustrating and Fonografiks is on the lettering.

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BubbleGun Enters as Fifth in Aspen's "10 for 10" Titles

If you've been paying any attention to Aspen this year, you know the publisher is launching a slew of new titles. Their "10 for 10" initiative is in honor of their tenth anniversary as a publisher and it's never too early to start looking ahead to future titles. June is only a few months away and that month's release will be none other than BubbleGun, written by Mark Roslan and illustrated by Mike Bowden and David Curiel.

“It's very hard to put into words how excited I am for BubbleGun's release this summer," said Roslan. "I've been working on the book for over two years now and I can't wait for everyone to read it. I really wanted to make a comic book that had that fun and high-energy storytelling that I grew up reading. BubbleGun follows a motley team of characters in a action-adventure story that focuses on the them, but is set in the future with a nice shiny sci-fi veneer to it: advanced robots, hover-cycles, neon lights, and laser guns mixed into crazy high-tech escapades. Mike Bowden and David Curiel are a brilliant art team and both are really bringing a new level to their work with this series.”

Sisters Molli and Devyn, along with teammates Roman and Kyo and a stockpile of cutting edge, cyber-punk technology, form a confident team of mercenary thieves able to take on the most formidable jobs around. Yet, when one cyber heist turns out to be more than they bargained for, as a mysterious package and its contents threaten to unravel the group to its core, the menacing worlds of corrupt industry and deadly espionage is unleashed upon them.

Aspen will also be offering a special Aspen Reserved Edition cover for BubbleGun #1 featuring art by Bowden and colorist Peter Steigerwald. Fans who reserve BubbleGun #1 by adding it to their pullbox with their local retailers will be eligible to receive the Aspen Reserved Edition of BubbleGun #1. Fans who collect all ten of Aspen’s “10 for 10” Aspen Reserved Edition #1 covers each month through their local retailer will be eligible to receive the full-size Aspen “Perfect 10’s” jam poster absolutely free.

In addition to the debut issue, Aspen is also offering an Aspen Reserved Edition cover for BubbleGun #2 by Mark Brooks, along with a BubbleGun #2 J. Scott Campbell Retailer Incentive cover available in July. Aspen will be releasing more info on further BubbleGun incentives and more Aspen “10 for 10” releases soon.

Full press release below.

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Peter Panzerfaust #10 Hits Second Printing

Readers just can't get enough of Peter Panzerfaust. The series placing J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan smackdab in the middle of World War II is a unique concept that has won over many a fan. You know it's popular when even the tenth issue manages to sell out its first printing.

The second printing of the tenth issue will be in stores April 17 and can be pre-ordered at comic book stores now (Diamond Comics code FEB138250). The first printing sold out the same week as its March 13 release. In addition to the all-new cover featuring art by series artist Tyler Jenkins, Image will also be producing a convention exclusive edition of the issue with a blank cover for sketches and autographs and a limited edition retailer exclusive edition as a token of thanks for the readers and retailers who have supported the book.

The issue closes out the "Paris" story arc for the series, prior to being collected in the series' second TPB on May 15. Full press release below.

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Hank McCoy (Before the Fur)

Of all the love for the underdog vigils that I maintain (did that even make sense?), there’s probably no line of fiction that I support more devoutly than Joss Whedon’s Angel.

Everyone loves Buffy: The Vampire Slayer. What’s not to love? The show is funny, exciting, heartwarming and challenges all sorts of gender stereotypes. It’s a fantastic show. When I originally heard there was going to be a spin-off show and that the cast would consist of Angel, Cordelia and Wesley, my first thought was: “Who are the three characters on Buffy: The Vampire Slayer that I care least about?”

Oh have I changed my tune. I’d have to say that these are now my three favorite characters in the Buffy-verse.

You’ll find that Angel fans are as staunchly devoted as Firefly fans. Admittedly, Angel might not always have gotten the same love and support that Buffy got as a character and as a series. Whedon admitted that it was tough for him to write someone who was the polar opposite of Buffy: masculine, brooding, dark and tortured.

But over time, I think they kind of got the essence of what Angel and his story is really about.

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Review - Executive Assistant Iris Vol. 3 #3

Having the skills of an assassin sounds cool, but it often comes with a lot more responsibility and risk than one would imagine. If you're an assassin at the top of your game like Iris is, things don't come easy in Executive Assistant Iris Vol. 3 #3 from Aspen Comics.

The issue is written by David Wohl, with art by Alex Lei, colors by Siya Oum and letters by Josh Reed.

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Nowhere Men Goes Viral

These days, going viral means you've made it. You've hit it big. You're all over the internets and everyone's talking about you. Eric Stephenson and Nate Bellegarde are newly minuted viral outbreaks, considering Nowhere Men #4 sold out the same day it was in stores. This was after a 34% increase in sales over #3 even. Thankfully, a second printing is due in stores April 10 (Diamond Comics code: FEB138044).

A tale of the fallout when four geniuses — the founders of the tremendously influential and powerful research and development company World Corp — clash and part ways, the series explores the potential of science and technology, and the human cost of science without limits. The narrative transitions between the volatile partnership of the "Fab Four of Science" in World Corp's early days and the present-day fruits of their work — a team of researchers quarantined in space as a virus coursing through their veins begins to manifest in unimagined changes.

Nowhere Men #5 will be in stores on April 24.

Full press release below.

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Zenescope Unveils First 3 Minutes of Grimm Fairy Tales Animated Pilot

Been dying to know what the first three minutes of the first episode of the all new Grimm Fairy Tales Animated Series looks like. Zenescope thinks you do and have politely created a video conveying said clip. Check it out below.

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Defense With The BoomStick

(Defense With The BoomStick 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.)

If only it was still last week; I would be sitting pretty good up in that attic.

I left that house on Monday morning, feeling pretty strong and healed up enough to get a move on towards Reno again. I’ve been making good time ever since avoiding zombies and other survivors I've seen. Felt like I was making good progress, until the worst thing that could happen, did happen.

My food supply was running dangerously low and today I've completely ran out.

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Review - Shadowland

Waking up with a hangover comes with its own challenges. Usually a splitting headache, intense thirst and an inability to full remember what happened the night before. For most in that situation, the night was simply one of reverie disguised as a haze. In the case of Detective Ian Gates in Shadowland, things are a little more devilish.

The title is written by Tobias Elmore and illustrated by Ken Bastard.

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Preview - Hair Shirt OGN

John and Naomi were childhood sweethearts— and then they grew up. Life took them on very different paths, but accidents will happen. When their two lives intersect again, they decide to have another go at love. But this is no simple romantic rekindling: Both John and Naomi are wearing the hairshirts of miserable memories and dark nightmares, which may be too painful to shed, even if they hold each other tight again. Their terrible struggle is powerfully represented in beautifully nuanced art that reflects a soulless city, troubled love, and tense aimlessness.

Yes, that's the description for the book. Hairshirts abound in the title written and illustrated by Patrick McEown (colors by McEown and Liz Artinian). The SelfMadeHero production should be in stores now with interiors below.

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Oni Press Sends Crogan Adventures to Radio

Oni Press knows that comics don't stop at comics. The pilot for The Sixth Gun television series is being shot for NBC, Scott Pilgrim was made into a feature film and several other comics are in development. But until this week, none of the creator-owned comics published by the company have made their way to radio. Leave it to a property like Crogan's Adventures to make the leap to the radio airwaves, courtesy of Chris Schweizer and Gregg Taylor. And it'll be produced by the Canadian audio drama company Decoder Ring Theatre.

“While it would certainly be fun to see the Crogan Adventures adapted for film or animation or television, those iterations would become someone else’s thing,” said Schweizer. “It would cease to be mine and would instead become the vision of whoever undertook the adaptation. But with the radio dramas, Gregg gave me complete control over content, and that allowed me to do something that I wouldn’t have otherwise considered possible: tell Crogan stories in a medium other than comics but contribute to the internal continuity of the comics series.”

“It isn’t hard to understand why Chris’ skills as a writer lent themselves so strongly to radio drama,” said series director Gregg Taylor, who recently came to the attention of the comics industry as the writer of last week’s Mask of the Red Panda comic. “When you read any of his Crogan Adventures books, each character has a distinct voice - a cadence that makes each of them sound as unique as they each look. That sounds so simple, but it’s a rare quality. It comes from having a natural ear for dialogue and really knowing who your characters are. And it meant that the scripts that arrived at my door were strong and audience friendly... and fun as hell to play!”

Actor Scott Moyle played a number of characters, including Catfoot Crogan, protagonist of the graphic novel Crogan’s Vengeance. “Working with Chris' scripts was a great opportunity to stretch the limits of my skills with new accents and genres,” said Moyle. “Getting to play Catfoot was icing on the cake - how often do you fall in love with a comic book and then get cast as its hero?”

The shows will be released on the fifteenth of each month from March through August and are available via iTunes or at the Decoder Ring Theatre website. Full press release below.

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Review - Vatican Assassin #4

It's only fitting with a new Pope being selected that the Vatican Assassin get relatively high billing as well. While Vatican Assassin #4 from Glow in the Dark Radio isn't quite as momentous, it does complete the series.

The issue is written by Mike Luoma and illustrated by Christian Navarro.

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Preview - Ten Grand #1

J. Michael Straczynski and Ben Templesmith are industry titans who are pretty much two of the best at what they do. Pairing them up is a no-brainer right? Image Comics thinks so, looking to do such an act with Ten Grand.

Joe Fitzgerald was a mob enforcer until the day he met Laura, who convinced him to leave that world behind. Before quitting, Joe agreed to one last job, little realizing that the man he'd been sent to kill was deeply involved in demonlogy. He survived Joe's attempt and came after him, fatally wounding Joe and killing Laura. As he lay dying, an angelic force (who may or may not be what she appears) pointed out that where she is going, he can't follow, and where he is going, he wouldn't want her to follow.

But if he will agree to work for them as a different kind of enforcer, they will bring him to life and keep on bringing him to life every time he is killed in a righteous cause. The reward: for those five minutes of death, he will be with Laura again. Would you endure an eternity of pain and death, dying over and over, to be with the woman you love for just five minutes each time you died? Most people might say no. But Joe Fitzgerald isn't most people.

The issue hits stores May 1 with interiors below.

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Dark Horse Collecting Sacrifice

Sometimes, sacrifices must be made. That rings especially true for those in the self-publishing realm, as those creators don't have the safety or security of knowing their book will actually make it. Those sacrifices are well-worth it when they pay off though and Dark Horse wants to collect one such book from Sam Humphries and Dalton Rose in Sacrifice.

“We could not be more pleased that Sacrifice has found a new home at Dark Horse,” said Humphries. “Their track record for gorgeous print editions is unparalleled, and their respect for comics is unquestioned. How cool is it that a whole new audience will be able to discover Sacrifice with a Dark Horse logo on the front?”

Sacrifice is the story of Hector, a young Joy Division fan and epileptic, who is thrust through time and space on a psychedelic journey to the heart of the Aztec Empire. How can a dude from San Diego survive in one of the most bloodthirsty civilizations in human history?

“Sam and Dalton created a phenomenon with Sacrifice, but this is how the story was always meant to be a read—a nice thick hardcover read dense with Aztec blood, time travel, post-punk psychedelia, seizures, and a totally relatable hero who just might have to participate in some human sacrifices,” says Dark Horse Editor in Chief Scott Allie.

The work was originally published as a six-issue limited series distributed to a scant sixty comic book stores across the US and Canada. Dark Horse collects the series as a hardcover edition, reproducing the complete series and including additional artwork by Bryan Lee O’Malley, Cliff Chiang, Emma Ríos, Paul Azaceta and Lacey Micallef. The Dark Horse hardcover of Sacrifice will be the first edition of Sacrifice in wide release, available in comic book shops, bookstores and Amazon on September 3, 2013.

Full press release below.

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