Where shadows reign supreme, Mad Cave Studios brings the underworld to life.
By Patrick Kelley
Mad Cave Studios, the indie darling known for its fresh takes on comic book lore, is diving headfirst into a new shared universe. Spearheaded by the acclaimed Mark London, the Underworld promises a labyrinthine journey through covert ops, clandestine activities, and more shadowy figures than a ’70s noir flick. This ambitious project introduces three interwoven miniseries, each distinct in its storytelling yet united by a common theme of secrecy and intrigue. As fans gear up for this thrilling ride, let’s delve into the heart of what makes the Underworld an unmissable addition to the comic book landscape.
First out of the gate is Revolution 9, debuting this September. This four-issue series follows Velveteen, a former assassin for the ancient Order of Nine, as she turns against her saviors to protect an innocent hacker named Jasper Dean. Together, they dodge the Order’s wrath and uncover a secret that could topple society itself. It’s like “John Wick” meets “Hackers,” but with more world-ending stakes. Revolution 9 sets the tone for what promises to be an electrifying foray into a universe where the lines between good and evil are perpetually blurred. The intricate artwork by Rossi Gifford, Raymund Bermudez, and Sebastian Cheng brings this dark, complex world to life, adding depth to the narrative’s gritty undertones.
In October, the adventure continues with Hour of the Wolf, a time-traveling horror/action extravaganza. This series promises to blend historical intrigue with a supernatural twist, keeping readers on the edge of their seats and questioning their own reality. The collaboration between cover artists Andrei Bressan and Adriano Lucas ensures that the visual storytelling remains as compelling as the plot, seamlessly blending past and future in a tapestry of suspense and terror.
November brings us Exit City, a gritty, hardboiled sci-fi detective yarn that’s sure to satisfy fans of cyberpunk and noir. Think “Blade Runner” but with more neon and existential dread. This series, with its atmospheric visuals crafted by Karl Mostert and David Baron, plunges readers into a dystopian landscape where every clue could lead to salvation or doom. Exit City’s narrative complexity and stylistic flair underscore Mad Cave’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of conventional comic book storytelling.
These threads of secrecy, intrigue, and danger all lead to Endless Night, the crossover event slated for Summer 2025. If you thought London’s standalone series were intense, brace yourself for a mind-blowing convergence where alliances are tested, secrets are unveiled, and the fate of the Underworld hangs in the balance. This crescendo promises to deliver on every front, weaving together the disparate narratives into a cohesive and thrilling conclusion that will leave readers eagerly anticipating what comes next.
At the helm of this universe is Mark London, Mad Cave Studios’ CEO and the creative force behind hits like Battlecats, Wolvenheart, and Honor & Curse. His knack for worldbuilding and action-driven storytelling ensures that the Underworld will be more than just another comic series—it’ll be an experience. London’s vision transcends traditional comic book boundaries, providing readers with an immersive journey that combines intricate plotlines with dynamic character development.
Joining London is Carlos Reno, a self-taught Brazilian artist known for his dynamic illustrations. His journey from advertising to comics brings a unique flair to the Underworld’s visual storytelling. Reno’s ability to convey emotion and action through his art enhances the narrative, making every panel a vital piece of the overarching story.
As we look forward to the release of these series, it’s clear that Mad Cave Studios is not just expanding its universe but redefining it. The Underworld promises to be a place where nothing is as it seems, and every story is a piece of a larger puzzle. For fans of intricate narratives and stunning visuals, this shared universe offers an unparalleled comic book experience.
Stay tuned to Mad Cave Studios’ social media for updates, pre-orders, and sneak peeks as we approach the release dates. And remember, in the Underworld, nothing is as it seems. Prepare yourself for a comic book experience that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about shadows and secrets.
