In 2025, Marvel's comic universe is set to expand dramatically with the launch of *Imperial*, a bold new series from the visionary mind of Jonathan Hickman. Known for his transformative works like *House of X* and the revitalization of the Ultimate Universe, Hickman is now poised to redefine the cosmic landscape of Marvel with *Imperial*. This series promises to introduce a fresh status quo for beloved cosmic characters, including Nova and the Guardians of the Galaxy.
To delve deeper into what *Imperial* will bring to the cosmic board, IGN had the opportunity to connect with Hickman via email. Below, you can explore an exclusive preview in our slideshow gallery, and then continue reading for more insights.
Marvel's Imperial #1 Preview Gallery
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When asked about the origins of *Imperial*, Hickman shared that the timing felt right for a new exploration of Marvel's cosmic universe. "I think it was simply time to revisit this corner of the Marvel Universe," Hickman told IGN. "With my availability, the company's ongoing interest, and the successful model of launching something like the Ultimate line, *Imperial* seemed like a perfect opportunity. It's come together well and I believe readers will find it engaging. It's a fun book."
The success of the new Ultimate line has set a precedent for *Imperial*, which serves as the cornerstone for a new series of cosmic books. Hickman sees similarities in approach but highlights the differences: "You can draw a direct line between the two in terms of what we think can succeed in the current market," he explains. "A small, focused line of books allows readers to invest without feeling overwhelmed and enables creators to realize their vision without being bogged down by external continuity. The major difference is that *Imperial* isn't set in an alternate universe, so we won't be using the 'real-time' aspect of the Ultimate line, which has its advantages and drawbacks, but I think most fans will appreciate this."
While *Imperial* may bring to mind the 2006 *Annihilation* crossover, which significantly altered the status quo for Marvel's cosmic heroes, Hickman clarifies the distinction: "No, simply because *Annihilation* was an invasion story and *Imperial* isn't anything like that," he says. "While the end results might be similar in that readers will suddenly care about a bunch of Marvel's cosmic books, plot-wise and story-wise, they're very different."
*Imperial* also draws on elements from Hickman's previous Marvel work, such as the "Hunt for Xavier" crossover in the X-Men line, which set the stage for *Imperial* by bringing back the former Shi'ar Empress Lilandra and reuniting her with Charles Xavier to rescue their daughter Xandra. Additionally, the Intergalactic Empire of Wakanda, first introduced in *Secret Wars* and later featured in Ta-Nehisi Coates' *Black Panther* series, plays a role. However, Hickman notes that *Imperial* isn't as tightly connected to his past works as one might assume: "I'm known for building on my own continuity within the broader Marvel universe, but more than half of *Imperial* involves picking up pieces from various stories by other creators over the years rather than just continuing plot threads from my previous books."
The series also shifts the Hulk family back into cosmic territory, with Hulk and She-Hulk returning to the war-torn world of Sakaar, echoing the influential *Planet Hulk* storyline from 2006. Hickman hints at the timing: "All I'll say is we're approaching the twentieth anniversary of *Planet Hulk*, and Marvel doesn't usually let such opportunities pass by."
Finally, Hickman discusses the collaboration between artists Federico Vicentini and Iban Coello on *Imperial*. "Both of those guys are crushing it," he says. "I've been very pleased and surprised at how they've tackled the story beats, character designs, and wild locations. With a compressed publishing schedule, having them tag team the project was essential, and they complement each other beautifully."
*Imperial #1* is slated for release on June 4, 2025.
For more on the world of comics, find out what you should read in this year’s FCBD lineup, and check out our exclusive interview with the writers of TMNT: The Last Ronin II.
