Marvel's Cosmic Crossover: Imperial Hulks Unleash New Powers and Looks!

The Imperial Hulks serve as a reminder to the world of the might they possess. It’s been close to two decades since the Illuminati blasted the Hulk into outer space, an event chronicled in the comic series “Planet Hulk” by Greg Pak, which takes its name from the violent planet Sakaar. On this harsh planet, the green behemoth transformed into the Green Scar and rose through the ranks to become Sakaar’s most feared slave-warrior. He eventually overthrew the Red King. However, those who betrayed him and sent him into exile would soon come to know the Hulk by a new the World Breaker, who, accompanied by his Warbound gladiator comrades, returned to Earth on a destructive rampage in “World War Hulk”.

On the planet Sakaar, a dominion controlled by imperial rulers with pink skin, who were known for their oppressive rule over the diverse species residing there such as the indigenous, intelligent insectoids, the gelatinous Spikes, and the shadowy desert dwellers called Shadow People. After the Great Games, Hulk emerged as Sakaar’s most powerful warrior, surpassing the Father Emperor of Sakaar who fathered Angmo II, also known as the Red King, following his remarkable achievements during the Spike War and the Wars of Empire.

However, quite a lot has transpired since the Green Scar era. Marvel hints that “Imperial” – their first cosmic crossover event since the 2020 “Empyre” and 2021’s “The Last Annihilation” – will redefine the Marvel cosmos. The four-issue series is set to establish a new framework for a series of interconnected space-set comic series scheduled for release later this year.

The renowned comic book writer Jonathan Hickman, who has shaped stories like “Secret Wars”, the X-Men’s Krakoan Era, and the fresh start for Ultimate Universe, is penning this series. It boasts artwork by Federico Vicentini, known for his work on “Miles Morales: Spider-Man”, and Iban Coello, recognized from his work on “Fantastic Four”. Notably, Coello has reimagined the gladiator-style Imperial Hulks, while Vicentini has revamped Star-Lord, J’Son of Spartax, and Richard Rider from the Nova Corps.

In the previous year’s Timeslide episode number 1, it was hinted that the assassination of galactic leaders would be a pivotal event in the chronology, and now, that crucial point is expected to occur this coming summer.

The summary reveals that galaxies within the Marvel Universe are on the verge of significant change after key leaders have been eliminated. With nature disliking a void, empires crumble, rulers are deposed, and power struggles ensue in an epic tale filled with intrigue, mysteries, and conflict. This dramatic unfolding occurs amidst the formation of a fresh galactic order within the Marvel Universe.

I’m thrilled to share that Imperial is promising revolutionary advancements for the Black Panther tribe, Novas, the Guardians of the Galaxy, and the Hulk family – including Bruce Banner, his cousin Jennifer Walters (She-Hulk), and Amadeus Cho (Brawn). Check out these fresh variant covers to get a sneak peek. They feature Nova Richard Rider and Peter Quill’s Star-Lord in action, alongside the Imperial Hulks engaged in a Star Wars-style battle!

In conversation with ComicBook, Coello shared insights about the latest Hulks. He explained, “When creating a fresh design for these characters, Jonathan Hickman typically provides a broad concept of their appearance in the script. I then build upon that foundation.” The challenge lies in aligning the new visual aesthetic with each character’s unique personality and ensuring it fits seamlessly within this current narrative arc they are embarking on. Coello believes She-Hulk experienced the most significant transformation among all characters.

In his time at Marvel, Vicentini has consistently been granted creative liberty over character designs. He appreciates the freedom each creator brings to their interpretation, and this project was particularly enjoyable as it allowed him to create entirely fresh looks for the characters. When designing costumes, he aimed to draw inspiration from past eras, such as reintroducing Star-Lord’s helmet, providing Nova with an aviator-style jacket, and taking cues from classic heroes like Flash Gordon. J’Son’s suit was also given a more traditional makeover. Peter’s suit will now be more reminiscent of his father’s, and speaking about Iban’s role in the story, Vicentini admired how he managed to differentiate all the Hulks; it wasn’t an easy task.

Imperial #1 (of 4) goes on sale June 4. See the just-revealed covers below: