Kirkman and Ottley Return to the…

An Invincible Universe Expansion: Battle Beast’s Solo Roar

Skybound and Image Comics are launching a new chapter in the Invincible Universe. A fresh series starring the fan-favorite Battle Beast is set to hit comic shops in April 2025. This marks the first Invincible comic release in seven years.

This exciting project brings together Robert Kirkman and Ryan Ottley, the creative duo behind the original Invincible series. The pair, known for their groundbreaking storytelling, promises to explore Battle Beast’s mysterious backstory. Fans are eager, with this storyline being one of the most requested stories in Invincible history.

A Legendary Pair Returns

Kirkman is thrilled to return to his comic roots. "I haven’t had a break from the Invincible Universe," he explains. While the series transitioned to animation, his hunger for new stories persisted. Kirkman and Ottley plan to explore the unexplored moments between Invincible issues 19 and 55.

Ottley shares similar enthusiasm. Initially unsure about Battle Beast’s fate, he appreciates the character’s growth. The character’s longevity has led them back to Image Comics and Skybound. The duo is excited to unveil the story behind Battle Beast, ensuring fans receive a tale worthy of their anticipation.

A Universe Awaits

Battle Beast is a character cursed with a thirst for violence. He searches for a warrior stronger than himself to end his reign of terror. In a universe full of powerful beings like Invincible and Omni-Man, his quest is fraught with complex challenges. Might the beast meet his match, or do the unthinkable to save those he loves?

Ben Abernathy, a Skybound executive editor, aptly voices the anticipation, saying fans have been clamoring for this series. The creators are committed to crafting a powerful comic that honors their fans’ dedication.

A Comic Collectors’ Delight

The new series also features a unique blind bag program. These bags offer surprise comics, including covers A through I, and rare unlinked comics. This initiative adds an adventurous twist for collectors, keeping the content under wraps until the release.

Invincible first captured readers with Invincible #1 on January 22, 2003. Ryan Ottley joined as series artist by issue #8, solidifying the comic’s iconic status. The series expanded into various spin-offs and a notable crossover with a certain friendly neighborhood superhero. Invincible’s influence soared with the 2021 Prime Video animated series, earning widespread acclaim.

Mark your calendars as Invincible’s season 3 premieres on Prime Video on February 6. Episodes will air weekly, concluding by March 13. Fans can follow the journey of Mark Grayson, the young superhero navigating the weight of his newfound powers.

A New Era Approaches

For those eager for more Invincible content, Battle Beast #1 arrives right after the show wraps its latest season. Priced at $3.99, it will be available in comic shops and digital platforms like Amazon Kindle and Google Play. This new installment is set to further expand the Invincible narrative and keep fans on the edge.

Below are the official cover releases for Battle Beast #1:

• Cover A by Ryan Ottley & Annalisa Leoni
• Cover B by David Finch
• Cover C Blind Bag: Various
• Cover D (1:10 Incentive) by E.J. Su
• Cover E (1:25 Incentive) by Kael Ngu
• Cover F (1:50 Incentive) by Arthur Adams
• Cover G (1:100 Incentive) (Foil) by Jonboy Meyers
• Cover H (1:1000 CGC Signed/Graded) (Foil) by Ryan Ottley & Annalisa Leoni
• Cover I Blank Sketch Cover
• Cover J (Battle Beast Die Cut Mask Cover) (Foil) by Ryan Ottley & Annalisa Leoni
• Cover K (1:2000 Ryan Ottley Original Art Sketch Cover by Ryan Ottley

Fans can expect a thrilling adventure with Battle Beast, a true testament to the creative genius of Kirkman and Ottley. The Invincible Universe continues to evolve, attracting both longtime supporters and new enthusiasts alike.