Author - Jerry Paxton

Expeditions: Samurai Trailer Reveals Companions

2 weeks ago

News, Geek News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News

The vessel Albatros has brought your crew to Japan – a land strange to you, full of dangers and challenges, but also the opportunity to meet new allies… and maybe even new friends. If you can earn their trust, that is.

In Expeditions: Samurai, your hero will be a Flynn – but you get to choose his or hers first name, customize its appearance, and pick from one of four classes.

On your journey, you’ll meet a colorful cast of eight companions: the skilled burglar Antje, who excels at stealth and has a knack for cracking open doors and locks; Johan, a relative of the late captain and just as arrogant as he is deadly with a sword; Tora-Hime, the Onna-Musha seeking her place in history or Étienne Durand, the priest who serves as the diplomatic superhero of your crew.

Each companion comes with their own story and a dedicated quest chain – earn their trust, and turn an ally into a friend… or something more. Check out the brand new companion trailer on YouTube, to learn more about the four others.

Watch the Companions Trailer on YouTube:

Expeditions: Samurai Sets Sail in August
You can start forging these bonds on August 7th, 2026, when Expeditions: Samurai sets sail into Early Access on Steam. Before launch, developer Campfire Cabal will publish a roadmap detailing what to expect at Early Access launch and which updates are coming down the line.

Wishlist the game on Steam now: https://thqn.net/es-steam

STARBITES Official Launch Trailer

2 weeks ago

Jerry Paxton

News, Geek News, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5 News, Trailers / Videos, Xbox Series X News

NIS America, Inc. and IKINAGAMES Co., Ltd. announced today that the new RPG, STARBITES, is available now on Nintendo Switch 2. The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition upgrade pack is available for $4.99

About STARBITES

Join Lukida and her allies as they uncover the truth beneath the sands of Bitter!

Hop on your Motorbot and ride toward freedom in the brand-new RPG STARBITES! On Bitter, a desert planet ravaged by the aftermath of an interstellar war, a young salvager named Lukida seeks to escape to the stars, but a sudden attack by a giant robot sets events into motion that will change her life—and the fate of Bitter—forever.

Explore the expansive landscape of Bitter atop your Motorbot, and fight your way to victory in a turn-based battle system that’s easy to learn, and satisfying to master. Build up your party, kit out your Motorbots with powerful equipment, and head out into the deserts of Bitter! Somewhere beneath the dunes, the truth of what happened 45 years ago awaits…

Z2 Brings Star-Studded Lineup to SDCC

2 weeks ago

Jerry Paxton

News, Geek News, Movie News, SDCC

Z2 returns to San Diego Comic-Con with an all-star lineup of musicians, actors, authors, and creators to Booth #1529 for an unforgettable week of live interviews, appearances, and signings. This year’s featured guests include Marc Maron (WTF Podcast), Bruce Dickinson (Iron Maiden), Mike McCready (Pearl Jam), David Dastmalchian (Street Fighter, Suicide Squad), Charlie Benante (Anthrax, Pantera), Spencer Charnas (Ice Nine Kills), DANCE GAVIN DANCE, TX2, Wild Wing (The Anaheim Ducks), and much more. In addition to celebrated fan events at the booth, McCready, Dickinson, and Maron will headline featured panels celebrating their upcoming books, while Dastmalchian, Benante, Carla Harvey, the producers of …And Out Comes the Wolf, and Cage Claypool will join Z2 for special discussions about upcoming projects. In addition to signings, panel programming details and schedules can be found below:

Z2 PANEL SCHEDULE:

THURSDAY, July 23, 12:30PM – 1:30PM

Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

FAREWELL TO SEASONS – MIKE McCREADY’S ALTERNATIVE HISTORY OF GRUNGE

As a founding member of Pearl Jam, Mad Season & Temple of the Dog, guitarist Mike McCready saw first-hand the human impact on Seattle’s music scene as Grunge exploded in the 1990s. Now, Mike is joined by co-writer Mark Sable (Unthinkable, Supergirl), artist Sebastián Piriz (Speed Racer), Z2 President Josh Bernstein, and editor-in-chief Rantz A. Hoseley to discuss the glory and the heartbreak of that era, captured in the pages of Mike’s new graphic novel FAREWELL TO SEASONS, along with the challenges of bringing a seminal moment in music history to life on the comic book page.

THURSDAY, July 23, 1:45PM – 2:45PM

Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

BETWEEN THE PAGES OF MARC MARON’S WTF IS A PODCAST

Marc Maron’s WTF podcast established the gold standard for podcasting, as it helped define the lexicon of a new form of entertainment. In celebration of the full history of WTF, and the release of the official graphic novel history from Z2; WTF IS A PODCAST, Marc is joined by his longtime partner-in-podcasting-crime Brendan McDonald and New York Times best-selling cartoonist Brian Box Brown (André the Giant, The He-Man Effect) as Z2 President Josh Bernstein talks with them about encapsulating almost 20 years of podcast and personal history into the pages of one graphic novel.

FRIDAY, July 24, 4:30PM – 5:30PM

Room 5AB

BRUCE DICKINSON’S THE MANDRAKE PROJECT – YEAR TWO

As the war between magic and science for the control of immortality reaches a fever pitch, Iron Maiden’s Bruce Dickinson arrives in San Diego, joined by interior artist John Devilman

(werewolftarantulafrankenstein), and Z2 editor-in-chief Rantz A. Hoseley to spill all the juicy details to Ryan J. Downey (MTV News) about the revelations that have rocked Necropolis’ world in THE MANDRAKE PROJECT: YEAR TWO, as well as dropping secrets about YEAR THREE and Bruce’s upcoming new solo album, Vigor Mortis!

SATURDAY, July 25, 12:00PM – 1:00PM

Room 7AB

Z2: Where Comics and Culture Collide

Over the last five years, Z2 has firmly established itself as the publisher for graphic novels that authentically and powerfully bring the entertainment worlds of music, film and comedy to life within Comics. For this special panel, Z2 welcomes creators Cage Claypool (Frizzle Fry), Charlie Benante (Anthrax, Pantera), Carla Harvey (Lords of Acid), and David Dastmalchian (Late Night with the Devil), with Z2 editor Jasminne Saravia, to talk with Ryan J. Downey (MTV News) about establishing the Rock and Roll Standard in comics, as well as what fans can expect from Z2’s 2026 and 2027 lineup of books!

Z2 BOOTH #1529 SIGNING SCHEDULE: (ALL TIMES PST)

Thursday, July 23rd

Noon – 1pm: Lee Jennings of The Funeral Portrait
1pm – 2pm: Spencer Charnas of Ice Nine Kills
4pm – 5pm: Mike McCready of Pearl Jam with Marc Sable and Sebastián Piriz
Friday, July 24th

11am – Noon: Marc Maron, Brendan McDonald of WTF with Brian “Box Brown
Noon – 1pm: Spencer Charnas of Ice Nine Kills
1pm – 1:30pm: Lee Jennings of The Funeral Portrait
1:30pm – 2:00pm: Charlie Benante of Anthrax/Pantera and Carla Harvey of Lords of Acid
3pm – 4pm: Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden with artist John Devilman
Saturday, July 25th

11am – Noon: Danny Peykoff, Jamie Neese and Jason Neese the Director/Producer/Writers of …And Out Comes The Wolf
1:30pm – 2:30pm: David Dastmalchian, David Mack and Cat Staggs
3:00pm – 4:00pm: Charlie Benante of Anthrax/Pantera and Carla Harvey of Lords of Acid
Sunday, July 26th

1pm – 2pm: Dance Gavin Dance
“San Diego Comic-Con is supposed to feel larger than life, and that’s exactly what we’re bringing this year,” Josh Bernstein, President of Z2 adds, and continues, “when you have Marc Maron, Bruce Dickinson, Mike McCready and David Dastmalchian all appearing as part of your weekend, you’re not just putting together a convention schedule—you’re creating moments fans will be talking about for years to come. Everything about this year’s Con feels bigger, louder, and more ambitious than anything Z2 has done before.”

Among the highlights of Z2’s San Diego Comic-Con lineup are several major publishing premieres and exclusive releases. Fans will get their first look at Marc Maron’s WTF IS A PODCAST, Les Claypool’s Frizzle Fry, the next chapter of Bruce Dickinson’s acclaimed The Mandrake Project: YEAR TWO, and Mike McCready’s Farewell to Seasons, an alternative history of Seattle’s groundbreaking 1990s music scene. Z2 will also debut new collector’s editions of fan-favorite titles created in partnership with Ice Nine Kills and “Weird Al” Yankovic, further expanding its catalog of music-driven graphic storytelling and collectibles.

Steve Buscemi Joins FX’s Far Cry Coming to FX and Hulu

2 weeks ago

Jerry Paxton

News, Geek News, Movie News, SDCC

Steve Buscemi is the latest to descend into the madness of FX’s “Far Cry,” joining Rob Mac and Lizzy Caplan in the new anthology series based on Ubisoft’s global hit video game franchise, which will be available on FX and Hulu as well as Disney+ internationally. The limited series from Noah Hawley and Rob Mac will retain Far Cry®’s signature standalone storytelling format with each season set in a new setting following a new cast of characters.

Steve Buscemi has built a career out of portraying some of the most unique and unforgettable characters in recent cinema. He has starred in films like “Reservoir Dogs,” “Fargo,” “The Big Lebowski,” and “The Death of Stalin.” Buscemi’s television credits include “Boardwalk Empire” and “Miracle Workers,” Season 5 of “The Sopranos,” and numerous memorable guest appearances on shows like “30 Rock” and “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.” He is an eight-time Emmy nominee, including multiple nods for “Boardwalk Empire” and for starring in and directing “The Sopranos.” He won the Emmy for best short form variety series in 2016 for “Park Bench with Steve Buscemi.” He most recently starred opposite Jenna Ortega in season 2 of the hit Netflix series “Wednesday.” He’ll co-star opposite John Malkovich and Sam Rockwell in Martin McDonagh’s feature film “Wild Horse Nine” for Searchlight this fall.

Since 2004, Far Cry has more than 100 million unique players and is one of Ubisoft’s most popular franchises. The award-winning Far Cry franchise is known for the exhilaration of the first-person shootouts, organic open world playgrounds, unique stories and memorable antagonists.

FX’s “Far Cry” is executive produced by Noah Hawley, who created FX’s Emmy-winning anthology series “Fargo” and “Alien: Earth” for television through his 26 Keys production banner, and Rob Mac, creator of “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” and Executive Producer of the Emmy-winning “Welcome to Wrexham” through his production banner More Better Productions.

In addition to Mac and Hawley, the series is executive produced by Simon Emanuel, Emilia Serrano for 26 Keys, Nick Frenkel for 3 Arts, Monica Macer, Peter Calloway, John Campisi, and Gerard Guillemot, Margaret Boykin and Austin Dill for Ubisoft Film & Television. The series will be produced by FX Productions.

Buscemi is represented by UTA and The Gotham Group.

Star Trek Beams Back to San Diego for SDCC 2026

2 weeks ago

Jerry Paxton

News, Geek News, Movie News, SDCC

Paramount+ and CBS Studios return to San Diego for this year’s Comic-Con® International, with unforgettable fan experiences in anticipation of the new season of the hit Paramount+ original series, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, and Star Trek’s 60th anniversary. The festivities include:

STAR TREK UNIVERSE HALL H PANEL:
Join the cast and executive producers of the hit Paramount+ Original Series Star Trek: Strange New Worlds for an exclusive look at what’s ahead, along with a special celebration of Star Trek‘s 60th anniversary featuring legendary talent from across the franchise. Expect exclusive footage, exciting reveals, surprise appearances, and unforgettable moments as we honor six decades of boldly going where no one has gone before.Scheduled to appear from STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS are Anson Mount, Rebecca Romijn, Ethan Peck, Christina Chong, Celia Rose Gooding, Melissa Navia, and Paul Wesley, alongside executive producers Akiva Goldsman, Henry Alonso Myers, and Alex Kurtzman.

The franchise’s 60th anniversary celebration will also feature a special intro from Eugene “Rod” Roddenberry and a panel with iconic cast members spanning the Star Trek universe, including Michael Dorn, Robert Picardo, Connor Trinneer, Cirroc Lofton, Doug Jones, Michelle Hurd, Jerry O’Connell, Christina Chong, Karim Diané, and the legendary George Takei. Saturday, July 25, 12:30 PM – 1:45 PM PT, Hall H
STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS SEASON FOUR FAN SCREENING:
Calling all Star Trek fans! Don’t miss an exciting big-screen event for Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, featuring the explosive season four premiere episode and an exclusive early screening of episode two days before it premieres on Paramount+. Guests will also enjoy surprise giveaways (while supplies last).Location: Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Date: Friday, July 24
Time: 6:00 PM PT Doors Open; 7:00 PM PT Screening Begins
RSVP: Admission is free, but RSVPs are required for entry on a reservation system: LINK HERE. Tickets are limited and will be distributed on a first come first serve basis. No badge is required for entry.
STAR TREK AT PARAMOUNT+ BOOTH:
Star Trek fans can also visit the Press Play Arcade, Paramount+’s official booth on the convention floor, featuring an array of arcade-style games themed to select Paramount+ Originals, including a Star Trek: Strange New Worlds “Bridge Command Memory Game.” A SDCC badge is required for entry. Booth #3529.
STAR TREK AT THE PARAMOUNT+ LODGE:
In celebration of the 60th anniversary of Star Trek and the new season of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, the Paramount+ Lodge will include a series inspired Port Galley, featuring the original U.S.S. Enterprise model provided by the Roddenberry Estate. Located at Happy Does (340 Fifth Ave., San Diego, CA 92101) from Wednesday, July 22 – Sunday, July 26. This is not affiliated with Comic-Con.
STAR TREK OFFICIAL BADGES:
Strange New Worlds is taking over the physical SDCC badges with an image of the U.S.S. Enterprise over the San Diego Convention Center (badge image seen above).The badge design will also be available in the Official SDCC Digital Souvenir Book and also featured on a limited edition t-shirt available for purchase exclusively at the Official Comic-Con Merch Shop located in the Marriott.
ADDITIONAL STAR TREK PANELS/ACTIVATIONS:
STAR TREK: THE COLLECTOR FRONTIER PANEL
Captain, incoming transmission! Join Paramount Products & Experiences, the LEGO Group and Magic: The Gathering as we celebrate the 60th anniversary of Star Trek and the exciting products inspired by the iconic franchise. Enjoy exclusive reveals, meet the toy creators who bring these collaborations to life and win prizes! Thursday, July 23, 11-12pm, Room 5AB

STAR TREK: BOLDLY BUILT ACTIVATION
Two icons: the LEGO Group and Magic: The Gathering. One epic photo op. Step into the Star Trek universe like never before — where beloved toys become the backdrop for your next great adventure. Located at Marriott Marquis (333 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101). Open Thursday, July 23 through Sunday, July 26.

STAR TREK FLEET COMMAND: 60 YEARS OF STAR TREK ARCHIVES EXPERIENCE
In celebration of Star Trek’s 60th anniversary, Star Trek Fleet Command, the beloved mobile game from Scopely, will invite fans aboard an immersive archive experience. The off-site activation commemorates six decades of Star Trek through the lens of the game, featuring official archive pieces, a Holodeck VR experience, themed photo moments, exclusive swag, interactive claw machines with Star Trek prizes, and a souvenir photo station where guests can choose their faction and take home a personalized Star Trek-themed card. Friday evening will feature a special invite-only event for the Star Trek Fleet Command community. Located at The Sinclair on G Street (643 G St, San Diego, CA 92101). This is not affiliated with Comic-Con. Open Friday, July 24 through Sunday, July 26.

Black Myth: Wukong Global Concert LA Review: Epic Music, Loot Swag, and a Surprise Sequel Teaser

2 weeks ago

Jerry Paxton

News, Geek News, Misc Review, Reviews

Can you believe it has already been two years since we first got our hands on this game? I still remember sitting at my desk, looking at the very first pre-alpha trailers. Honestly, I was skeptical. We all were, right? It looked too good to be true. The combat was incredibly smooth, and the boss designs were wild. I thought it was just a fancy tech demo. But Game Science proved us all wrong. They gave us a massive, gorgeous hit that sold over thirty million copies. And now, they are taking those epic tunes on a global tour.

I was lucky enough to snag a press seat at the North American premiere at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on July 7, 2026. Let me tell you, it was a night I won’t forget anytime soon.

The Real-Life Loot Box Swag Struggle

Before the music even started, the gamer instincts kicked in. When you bought your ticket, your seat tier decided what kind of loot you got at the door. There was no regular merch store inside. You couldn’t just walk up and buy a CD or a shirt. Everything was tied to your seat, which was a bit of a double-edged sword.

Here is the breakdown of the swag tiers:

Standard ($86 – $120): Got you a cool commemorative ticket stub, a portrait pin mystery bag, and a white brass ring mystery bag.
Deluxe ($128 – $149): Added a “Ma-Ma-Hu-Hu” t-shirt mystery bag.
Premium ($164.78 – $180): Included all of the above plus a sweet 1/12 scale collectible figure mystery bag.

Here is the thing, though. Ticketmaster did a terrible job explaining this when tickets went on sale. Lots of fans on Reddit were complaining because they bought mid-tier seats and had no idea they missed out on the premium figure bags.

And because the bags were random, the lobby turned into a chaotic trade market. I saw guys frantically trying to swap a Yin Tiger shirt for a Ma Tianba horse shirt because the sizes were random. It felt just like trading item drops in an MMO lobby!

A Beautiful Clash of East and West

Once we got past the lobby trading and sat down in the 7,100-seat theater, the real magic began. The atmosphere was electric. I was sitting next to other creators, developers, and tons of hardcore fans who knew every single boss pattern by heart.

The performance was driven by the Hollywood Film Orchestra, giving the tracks that massive, cinematic Western weight. But the real stars were the Chinese folk musicians sitting right at the front. The sound of the Guzheng zither and the percussive attack of the Pipa lute cut through the heavy brass beautifully.

And oh my god, the Dizi flute soloist! She was so happy and animated while playing. She was practically jumping on stage with her flute, and you could feel that passion radiating through the entire room.

Behind the players, a giant screen flashed gameplay clips, cinematic cutscenes, and those gorgeous animated shorts that play between chapters. Watching the claymation scene from Chapter 2 on a massive screen while the live strings swelled? Yeah, I got instant goosebumps.

The Headless Monk and a Family Legacy

Speaking of Chapter 2, we have to talk about the absolute highlight of the night. You all remember the Headless Monk who sings the Shaanxi storytelling songs while plucking his three-string Sanxian lute? He is a fan favorite for a reason.

The crowd went absolutely wild when the stage lights turned yellow for his segment. But then, a video popped up on the big screen. It was Xiong Zhuying, the original singer and composer behind the character. He explained that due to some annoying US travel visa issues, he couldn’t make it to Los Angeles. The crowd let out a collective sigh.

But then he smiled and introduced his son, who was standing on stage in his place.

The entire theater erupted with so much love! The younger Xiong raised his Sanxian, the orchestra swelled, and he absolutely crushed the performance. Honestly, it felt like the Headless Monk himself was right there in the room with us. It was a beautiful, passing-of-the-torch moment that felt incredibly raw and real.

Spooky Encores and Spilling the Tea

The main show took us chronologically through seventeen tracks, tracing our physical journey through the game. But Game Science didn’t stop there. They treated us to two incredible encores.

First, they played “Where Lies the Path Ahead?”, which is a modern take on the ending song from the classic 1986 TV show. If you have Chinese parents, they probably watched that show a million times. It was a beautiful nod to the roots of the legend.

But then came the real surprise. They played the teaser theme for the upcoming sequel, Black Myth: Zhong Kui!

We got our first glimpse of this sequel back at Gamescom in August 2025, where they revealed we would be playing as the “ghost-catching god.” Since Zhong Kui isn’t as well-known in the West as Sun Wukong, playing his dark, eerie theme live was a brilliant move. The music was heavy, creepy, and full of traditional chanting. It made me want to skip ahead in time just to play it.

The Verdict: You Need to Go

By the time the final notes of the main menu theme faded, the entire theater was on its feet for a massive standing ovation. It was a loud, beautiful celebration of gaming culture.

Honestly, the concert had such a massive impact on me that I went home, turned on my PC, and redownloaded the game the very next day. I just had to jump back into New Game Plus to hear those songs while fighting the Tiger Vanguard again.

Sure, the marketing for the LA show was almost non-existent, seriously, why did they barely advertise this and the swag collection was a bit of a mess. But the music itself was flawless. If the tour is heading to your city next, do yourself a favor and grab a ticket. Just make sure you double-check your seat tier if you want that sweet collectible figure!

Aliens: Fireteam Elite 2 Takes Over San Diego Comic-Con

2 weeks ago

Jerry Paxton

News, Geek News, SDCC, Windows PC News

Today, Daybreak Game Company, a worldwide leader in massively multiplayer online games and emergent gameplay, and Cold Iron Studios, the San Jose-based game studio comprised of veteran action and shooter developers, revealed their San Diego Comic-Con presence for Aliens: Fireteam Elite 2. The next evolution of the co-op survival shooter that drops squads of Colonial Marines into the heart of the Xenomorph nightmare, Aliens: Fireteam Elite 2 comes to SDCC with a behind-the-scenes panel, featuring never-before-seen art, music reveals, and collectible posters.

Saturday, July 25

Crafting the Art & Sound of the Next Aliens: Fireteam Elite – 5:15PM – 6:15PM, Room: 6BCF

● Austin Wintory (award-winning video game music composer), Nicholas Stohlman (art director), Michelle Vargas (senior environment artist), and Derrick Reyes (audio director) provide an exclusive look at never-before-seen concept art, environment design, and original music tracks from the upcoming Aliens: Fireteam Elite 2, along with insights into how these elements shape player experience. A Q&A session moderated by Jake Kriegman (narrative designer) will follow, giving fans a chance to connect directly with the creators behind the next evolution of Aliens.

SDCC Giveaways

Attendees can pick up an exclusive AFE2 poster, while supplies last.

Fangoria Unveils SDCC First in Fright Panel

2 weeks ago

Jerry Paxton

Halloween, Geek News, Movie News, News, SDCC

With voting for the 2026 FANGORIA Chainsaw Awards closing tomorrow, Wednesday, July 15, at 11:59 PM PT, horror fans have one final opportunity to cast their ballots at fangoria.com/vote.

Then, FANGORIA is heading straight to Comic-Con International in San Diego to break down the categories and reveal what’s next. On Friday, July 24, from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM in Room 23ABC, the panel First in Fright with FANGORIA will take fans behind the scenes of the FANGOIRA Chainsaw Awards with special guests and exclusive intel, before the fan-voted awards broadcast on Shudder this October.

Attendees can expect:

Special guest Devon Sawa (Final Destination, Heart Eyes, Shudder’s Hell Motel: Murder at Red Mountain) and more surprise appearances.
Major, room-only announcements and sneak peeks.
A live audience Q&A with the FANGORIA team and special guests.

First in Fright with FANGORIA

Friday, July 24, 2026
8:00–9:00 PM
San Diego Convention Center – Upper Level, Room 23ABC

Since 1979, FANGORIA has been the definitive blood-spattered bible of horror, chronicling the genre across print, film, television, and digital media. Join the FANGORIA team and special guest Devon Sawa for a trip through the brand’s house of horrors, featuring exclusive sneak peeks, major announcements, and surprises surrounding the 2026 FANGORIA Chainsaw Awards, streaming exclusively on Shudder on Sunday, October 25.

Panelists: Sean Abley (Moderator), Devon Sawa, Angel Melanson (FANGORIA Digital Editor), Michael Varrati (FANGORIA Chainsaw Awards Writer & Director), Kimberly Leszak (FANGORIA Community & Content Manager), and more.

Image Comics Unveils SDCC 2026 Lineup

2 weeks ago

Jerry Paxton

News, Book News, Comics News, Geek News, SDCC

Image Comics is pleased to return to San Diego this year for Comic-Con on Wednesday, July 22 through Sunday, July 26 at booth #1915.

Please note: updates to the schedule may appear online during the show. Please refer to www.imagecomics.com for the most up-to-date information.

LIMITED* MERCHANDISE, ASHCANS & CONVENTION VARIANTS SOLD AT THE IMAGE BOOTH (#1915):
*Quantities will be limited by customer and per day on a first-come, first-served basis. Please ask at the Image booth about availability.

Hammerfist #1 ashcan – $10 +tax
Crowbound #1 ashcan – $10 +tax
The Karman Blade #1 ashcan – $10 +tax
The Last Driver #1 ashcan – $10 +tax
Chainkata #1 ashcan – $20 +tax
D’Orc #1, third printing SDCC 2026 Exclusive – $20 +tax
White Sky #1, third printing SDCC 2026 Exclusive – $10 +tax
Red Roots #1 SDCC 2026 Exclusive – $10 +tax
If Destruction Be Our Lot #1 SDCC 2026 Exclusive – $10 +tax
M1: Monster Racing League #1 SDCC 2026 Exclusive – $20 +tax
Odin #1 SDCC 2026 Exclusive – $20 +tax
Youngblood #100 SDCC 2026 Exclusive – $20 +tax
Tigress Island #1, fourth printing SDCC 2026 Exclusive – $20 +tax
Do A Powerbomb Black and White #1 SDCC 2026 Exclusive – $20 +tax
Image Comics branded pint glasses – $25 +tax
Image Comics branded hats – $25 +tax
Image Comics branded enamel pins – $10 +tax
Image Comics branded notebooks – $5 +tax
Image Comics branded mugs – $25 +tax
Image Comics branded shirts – $25 +tax
Image Comics branded totebags – $10 +tax

IMAGE COMICS SDCC PANELS:

THURSDAY, JULY 23

11:30AM – 12:30PM Image Comics: Comics Characters Fans Will Love or Hate—or Love to Hate!
Room: 24ABC
Join Matthew Rosenberg (IF DESTRUCTION BE OUR LOT), Patrick Kindlon (TIGRESS ISLAND), John Layman (CHEW), Rob Guillory (CHEW), Tony Fleecs (FERAL) and Dustin Nguyen (CROWBOUND) for an in-depth discussion of character building that leaps from the page and the secret behind what makes for loveable or unlikable characters for readers.
Moderator: Jim Viscardi, VP of Business Development at Image Comics.

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Robert Kirkman Live!
Room: 6BCF
The biggest Robert Kirkman panel yet. From Invincible to the newest superhero series Terminal, to Void Rivals and an expanding vision for Transformers in Skybound and Hasbro’s Energon Universe, Robert Kirkman pulls back the curtain on it all. Behind-the-scenes stories, exclusive reveals, and surprises are part of the program.

FRIDAY, JULY 24

12:00PM – 1:00PM Image Comics: Artists Unleashed
Room: 25ABC
Join us for an in-depth conversation with master storytellers Daniel Warren Johnson (CHAINKATA, DO A POWERBOMB), Skottie Young (I HATE FAIRYLAND, TWIG), Ian Bertram (THE KARMAN BLADE, LITTLE BIRD), Caspar Wijngaard (THE POWER FANTASY, HOME SICK PILOTS), Sanford Greene (BITTER ROOT) and Sean Gordon Murphy (THE LAST DRIVER) as they share details about their work as well as their creative process and influences.
Moderator: Jim Viscardi, VP of Business Development at Image Comics.

1:00PM – 2:00PM Breaking Ground: Building New Worlds with Caspar Wijngaard
Room: 25ABC
Join Caspar Wijngaard (THE POWER FANTASY, HOME SICK PILOTS) and Jim Viscardi for an in-depth overview of Wijngaard’s storied career as one of Image Comics’ most innovative creators. In this one-on-one interview and Q&A session, they discuss the process of crafting original worlds for creator owned comics and preview the much anticipated return of The Power Fantasy!
Moderator: Jim Viscardi, VP of Business Development at Image Comics.

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM Frightening and Fantastic Worlds of James Tynion IV
Room: 25ABC
From Something Is Killing the Children to EXQUISITE CORPSES and beyond, multi-award-winning writer James Tynion IV discusses the ever-expanding worlds of Tiny Onion with collaborators Martin Simmonds (THE DEPARTMENT OF TRUTH), Werther Dell’Edera (Something Is Killing the Children), and Michael Walsh (EXQUISITE CORPSES).
Moderator: Sami DeMonster, Tiny Onion community manager.

4:15 PM – 5:15 PM Kirkman, McFarlane, Liefeld, Silvestri, Stephenson: Image Comic Legends Together on One Stage
Ballroom 20
Join Image Comics founders and partners Todd McFarlane (SPAWN), Rob Liefeld (YOUNGBLOOD, BADROCK), Marc Silvestri (WITCHBLADE, THE DARKNESS), Robert Kirkman (INVINCIBLE, THE WALKING DEAD), and Eric Stephenson (NOWHERE MEN), for an unforgettable conversation about how they revolutionized the comic book industry. Hear untold stories from the creators who took the risks that sent shockwaves through the comic world, forever changing the landscape of the industry.

SATURDAY, JULY 25

10:00AM – 11:00AM Image Comics: Storytelling, Genre, and Crafting Unforgettable Comics
Room: 28DE
Join Geoff Johns (GEIGER), Jason Fabok (ROOK: EXODUS), Chris Condon (THAT TEXAS BLOOD), Wes Craig (KAYA) and Tyler Kirkham (FINAL BOSS) for a freewheeling conversation amongst some of the top talent in the comics industry as they discuss genre, storytelling, industry secrets, and tricks-of-the-trade.
Moderator: Jim Viscardi, VP of Business Development at Image Comics.

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Top Cow 2026 and Beyond
Room: 4
Top Cow legends Marc Silvestri (founder, CEO) and Matt Hawkins (president, COO) plus Top Cow creators including Stjepan Šejić and Linda Šejić (SUNSTONE), Simon Birks, Henry Barajas, and Marguerite Bennett (WITCHBLADE) discuss and present their upcoming projects. The panel explores the next several years at The Cow. Attendees will receive a free custom print with autograph lines for several creators who will be signing at the booth right after the panel.

12:30PM – 1:30PM Image Comics: The Future of Comics
Room: 6A
Join Doug Wagner (NARCO), Michael Walsh (EXQUISITE CORPSES), Tyler Boss (EXQUISITE CORPSES: RASCAL RANDY), Curt Pires (FIREBORN), and Jonathan Ball (THE EYE COLLECTOR) for an in-depth discussion of character building that leaps from the page and the secret behind what makes for loveable or unlikable characters for readers.
Moderator: Jim Viscardi, VP of Business Development at Image Comics.

3:30PM – 4:30PM Image Comics: The New Wave Of Comics Storytelling, Character & Talent
Room: 24ABC
Join Franklin Jonas (FIREBORN), Maytal Zchut (SISTERHOOD: A HYDE STREET STORY), Lamont Magee (SURPRISE ANNOUNCEMENT), Brett Bean (D’ORC), and GMB Chomichuk (THE EYE COLLECTOR) as they talk about what it’s like bringing brand new comics to market and creating comics that fans fall in love with.
Moderator: Jim Viscardi Room, VP of Business Development at Image Comics.

4:30 PM – 5:30 PM Transformers and G.I. Joe: The Energon Universe is Unstoppable
Room 5AB
The next phase of the Energon Universe is here. Robert Kirkman (VOID RIVALS, TRANSFORMERS), Joshua Williamson (G.I. JOE), Conor Hughes (VOID RIVALS), and Sean Mackiewicz, SVP/Publisher at Skybound, reveal what is next for Skybound and Hasbro’s shared universe featuring TRANSFORMERS, G.I. JOE, VOID RIVALS, and M.A.S.K.
Moderator: Arune Singh, VP, Brand at Skybound.

SIGNINGS AT THE IMAGE COMICS BOOTH (#1915):
All signings will be capped for the purposes of line control with preference given to attendee badge-types only where time constraints apply. All items presented for signing are subject to review and denial by staff.

THURSDAY, JULY 23:

9 AM – 10 AM
Todd McFarlane

10 AM – 11 AM
Brett Bean
Skottie Young

11 AM – 12 PM
Tim Seeley
Jason Fabok & Geoff Johns

12 PM – 1 PM
Zander Cannon
Nick Dragotta

1 PM – 2 PM
Carlo Barberi

1:30 PM – 3 PM
James Tynion IV

2 PM – 3 PM
William Harms

3 PM – 4 PM
Sean Gordon Murphy
Michael Walsh
Todd McFarlane

4 PM – 5 PM
Kyle Higgins
Jason Fabok, Geoff Johns, Lamont Magee & Maytal Zchut

5 PM – 6 PM
Patrick Kindlon

FRIDAY, JULY 24:

10 AM – 11 AM
Skottie Young
Thomas Healy

11 AM – 12 PM
Zander Cannon
Jason Fabok & Geoff Johns

12 PM – 1 PM
Patrick Kindlon
Jason Fabok & Geoff Johns

1 PM – 2 PM
Eric Zawadzki & Deniz Camp
Matthew Rosenberg & Tyler Boss

2 PM – 3 PM
Brett Bean
Christian Ward

2:30 PM – 3 PM
Todd McFarlane

3 PM – 4 PM
Daniel Warren Johnson

4 PM – 5 PM
Jeff Lemire, Dustin Nguyen
Jason Fabok, Geoff Johns, Lamont Magee, Danni Miki & Maytal Zchut

5 PM – 6 PM
Ian Bertram
Caspar Wijngaard

SATURDAY, JULY 25:

10 AM – 11 AM
Tyler Boss
Eric Zawadzki, Deniz Camp

11:30 AM – 12 PM
Wes Craig

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Jason Fabok & Geoff Johns

12 PM – 1 PM
Sean Gordon Murphy
Tim Seeley, Tony Fleecs
Jimmy Palmiotti

1 PM – 2 PM
Robert Windom, Lily Windom, Jae Lee
Ian Bertram

2 PM – 3 PM
Daniel Warren Johnson

3 PM – 4 PM
Caspar Wijngaard
William Harms
Todd McFarlane

4 PM – 5 PM
John Layman

5 PM – 6 PM
Jason Fabok, Geoff Johns, Lamont Magee
Jonathan Glapion

SUNDAY, JULY 26

10 AM – 11 AM
Skottie Young

11 AM – 12 PM
Sean Gordon Murphy
Jae Lee

12 PM – 1 PM
Matthew Rosenberg
Kelly Sue DeConnick

1 PM – 2 PM
Caspar Wijngaard
Christian Ward

2 PM – 3 PM
Kyle Higgins
Brett Bean

Final Boss The Video Game Teaser Trailer

2 weeks ago

Jerry Paxton

News, Geek News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News

In advance of Comic-Con International 2026 in San Diego, Bit Bot and renowned comic writer and artist Tyler Kirkham are partnering to develop an official video game adaptation of Final Boss, Kirkham’s hit comic book series. Published by Image Comics, Final Boss quickly emerged as one of comics’ breakout successes, with its debut issue selling out at the distributor level and earning an immediate second printing following strong demand from retailers and readers. Now as the ongoing series continues to take the comic reading world by storm, Kirkham and Bit Bot will bring the hard-hitting, non-stop comic-inspired action to gamers around the world with a one-of-a-kind new video game, available to wishlist on Steam today.

Created, written, and illustrated by Tyler Kirkham — known for his work on Amazing Spider-Man, Green Lantern, X-Men, and numerous other bestselling titles — Final Boss follows Tommy Brazen, an ex-street brawler and powered-up mercenary who discovers that the secrets of his past are connected to something far larger than he ever imagined. The series blends the energy of classic arcade beat ’em ups, fighting games, and action entertainment into a high-octane comic experience. Now, Bit Bot is bringing that vision to life in interactive form. Developed by Bit Bot alongside its in-house game studio, Mecanimal Games, Final Boss is a faithful adaptation of the comic series, with Kirkham serving as a key creative collaborator throughout development. Leading the project alongside Kirkham are Bit Bot Creative Director Frank O’Connor, the former Franchise Creative Director behind Halo and Perfect Dark, and Bit Bot co-owner Joshua Viola. The game’s original score will be composed by acclaimed musician and Bit Bot co-owner Celldweller.

“Final Boss was born from my love of classic arcade games, fighting games, action movies, and comics,” said Tyler Kirkham. “Working directly with Bit Bot allows us to translate that DNA into a video game that feels authentic to the comic while expanding the world in exciting new ways.”

“At its heart, Final Boss is about escalation,” said Frank O’Connor. “The gameplay mirrors the structure of the story. What begins as a cooperative street fight gradually narrows into a personal showdown. It’s a format that lets us combine two beloved genres while remaining completely faithful to the spirit of the comic.”

Designed for one to four players in local couch co-op, Final Boss begins as a pixel-art side-scrolling brawler inspired by arcade classics. Players battle through waves of enemies and progress through increasingly dangerous stages before each level culminates in a dramatic transformation. Animated comic-book panels introduce the boss, the action tightens, and the game shifts into a focused one-on-one 3D fighting experience inspired by modern fighting games.

“One of the things that immediately excited us about Final Boss is that the comic already feels like a video game,” added Joshua Viola. “Tyler created a world that celebrates arcade brawlers, fighting games, comics, and action cinema. Rather than simply adapting those ideas, we’re building a game around them.”