dailyloe.com – Robert Kirkman and artist Ryan Ottley reunited to launch the prequel comic series Invincible Universe: Battle Beast on April 16, 2025. This ended an eight-year hiatus for the franchise’s original creative team. The new publication comes from Skybound and Image Comics. It focuses on the backstory of the galaxy’s most formidable warrior.
The return of the comic book property follows the conclusion of the original 144-issue run in February 2018. According to Art Threat, the debut of the prequel was timed to leverage the success of the Prime Video animated adaptation. That adaptation concludes its fourth season on April 30, 2026. The narrative explores the period between issues #19 and #55 of the primary series.
The plot follows Battle Beast, a character from the planet Kregg. He traverses the cosmos seeking a combatant capable of defeating him in battle. Artist Ryan Ottley expressed surprise regarding the long-term popularity of the character. He noted the character’s initial debut nearly 20 years ago.
“I wasn’t sure if he’d be a big character or die a terrible gory death,” stated Ryan Ottley, Artist. Ottley indicated that the collaboration with Kirkman provided a preferred creative outlet. This followed their previous 15-year tenure on the original title. “It’s amazing to be working with Robert again in the Invincible Universe,” stated Ottley.
“A while ago I was telling him I wasn’t sure what project to do next,” stated Ryan Ottley, Artist. “When he mentioned us doing a Battle Beast series together, I jumped at the idea of being back on a creator-owned book. I haven’t had this much fun since Invincible.” Robert Kirkman addressed the necessity of the prequel by highlighting specific chronological gaps in the existing lore.
“Longtime fans will know there’s a massive gap in Battle Beast’s appearances…There’s a lot of story to tell,” stated Robert Kirkman, Writer. Kirkman further noted that his involvement with the animated adaptation served as a catalyst. “Moving from the comic series directly to the animated series, I haven’t really had a break,” stated Kirkman. “That said, while adapting the series to animation, I’ve been itching to do something new!” stated Robert Kirkman, Writer.
Executive Editor at Skybound, Ben Abernathy, confirmed that the project was a direct result of the team’s renewed collaboration. The prequel series aims to fill a narrative gap in Battle Beast’s story. It also capitalizes on the ongoing popularity of the animated show. The creative team’s reunion marks a significant moment for Invincible fans.
