Get ready to roll initiative, because the highly anticipated return of the beloved dark fantasy series is here with DIE: LOADED #1. The award-winning creative team of writer Kieron Gillen and artist Stephanie Hans are inviting readers back into their critically acclaimed, “goth Jumanji” world for a brand-new chapter. Published by Image Comics, this series captured the imaginations of comic fans and tabletop RPG players alike, and its return is one of the most exciting comic events of the year.
The original run of DIE was a massive success, earning a British Fantasy Award, three Hugo Award nominations, and a cult following for its smart deconstruction of role-playing games and its deeply emotional exploration of friendship and trauma. Gillen and Hans created a world that was both a loving homage and a dark critique of the fantasy worlds we escape to. This new chapter promises to continue that legacy, proving that while the players may be finished with the game, the game is far from finished with them, a prospect we at Comic Book Addicts can’t wait to see.
What’s the Game in DIE: LOADED #1?
The story of DIE: LOADED #1 picks up a year after the harrowing events of the original series finale. The players, now seemingly free from the game world that trapped them, reunite for the wake of their friend, Chuck. They believe their ordeal is over, but the bonds forged in that hellish fantasy world are not so easily broken. The issue promises to pull them back into the conflict, forcing them to confront their past and the pieces of themselves they left behind in the game.
Alongside the new comic, the creators are also releasing The Die RPG Quickstart Game Guide for fans who want to experience the world for themselves. This standalone guide provides everything needed to play the official, Origin Award-winning Die RPG. It’s a fantastic way for readers to immerse themselves in the lore, and you can find more great new comics and merchandise on our site.
A Legacy of Critical Acclaim
The return of DIE is so highly anticipated because of the incredible impact the original series had. It topped sales charts and sparked a wave of RPG-inspired storytelling across the medium. The series has been praised by critics and some of the biggest names in the industry.
- Matthew Mercer of Critical Role called it, “A deliciously dark Phantom Tollbooth-like journey told through a lens of broken humanity.”
- Rick Remender (Deadly Class) said, “Kieron Gillen and Stephanie Hans are a powerful merging of talents… Image Comics continues to innovate.”
- Al Ewing (Immortal Hulk) praised it as, “A smart, gripping story about fantasy, gaming, aging and things that can’t be said.”
The stunning artwork on the Comic Book Covers by Stephanie Hans and guest artist Peach Momoko will surely continue the series’ tradition of iconic and beautiful visuals.
In conclusion, DIE: LOADED #1 is more than just a new issue; it’s the return of a modern classic. It’s a must-read for fans of dark fantasy, tabletop RPGs, and powerful character-driven storytelling. The entire team at The Comic Book Addicts will be picking this up on day one when it releases on November 12th.
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