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December 31, 2003 | CG '03 NEWS ROUNDUP: AOL RED, AWARDS & MORE!

From Bill Rosemann

CG '03 NEWS ROUNDUP: AOL RED, AWARDS & MORE!

Sojourn & Negation Hit "Best Of " Lists For '03...El Cazador & Kiss Kiss Bang Bang "Buzz Books" In '04!

As 2003 roars to a close, the gang in the studio gathered a few cool news items to pass your way...

CROSSGEN'S TALKING MONKEY LEAPS INTO AOL RED!
        Po Po, the all-wise monkey mentor of WAY OF THE RAT, is now talking to teens! The high-kicking kung fu series has jumped into the spotlight in the "Comics & Anime" section of AOL RED, the newly launched teen site on AOL. "It's official: people love the monkey," said writer Chuck Dixon. "The entire creative team is excited by the chance to reach a huge new audience and bring them along for a wild tale of swords, ghosts and dragons." Users of AOL 9.0 or AOL for MAC OS X can reach AOL RED at keyword "Red".

CG CREATORS & CHARACTERS HONORED BY 2003 WIZARD FAN AWARDS NOMINATIONS!
        Several CG creators and characters have been nominated in the 2003 Wizard Fan Awards! CrossGen congratulates all nominees and thanks readers for nominating us -- through voting at wizarduniverse.com -- for the following categories:

Favorite Penciler: George Pérez (JLA/Avengers, SOLUS)
Favorite Colorist: Laura Martin (RUSE)
Favorite Letterer: Dave Lanphear (EL CAZADOR, RUSE)
Favorite Heroine: Arwyn (SOJOURN)
Favorite Publisher: CrossGen Comics

The winners will be announced in August at the Wizard World Chicago convention. You can vote for your favorites now via the ballot found in Wizard #148!

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, CINESCAPE AND MORE SPOTLIGHT CG TITLES!
        Several recent periodicals profiled a variety of CG titles... Crowning it "a successful mix of horror and humor," Publishers Weekly said that ROUTE 666 "deftly pushes an unsettling situation as far as it can while still remaining amusing."
        After sailing on EL CAZADOR, Cinescape admitted: "What's surprising is how much fun it can be, especially with a female pirate named Captain Sin leading the way to the booty!" In a full-page feature article, Cinescape also noted that WAY OF THE RAT "should thrill fans of martial arts action and monkey sidekicks."
The "electronic lifestyle" magazine BPM hailed THE PATH Vol. 2 as "a wide-screen samurai epic, in blood-and-sweat dripping color...full of grand landscapes, intense stare-downs and explosive action."
        NewType USA called RUSE Vol. 1 "a wild ride through an alternate Victorian-style era...you can almost hear the gargoyles flapping overhead." In an article titled "Bridging The Generation Gap," Cinescape writer Arnold T. Blumberg profiled BRIDGES, stating: "Pretty soon, bringing a comic book to class won't be seen as a massive breach of etiquette. Thanks to CrossGen Education, comics may soon take their place as a worthy supplement to the learning experience for young children...aimed at strengthening reader comprehension and analytical skills in grades 4 - 12, the program provides interested parties with graphic novels, related activity and exercise materials, and a chance to improve the old-fashioned approach to teaching reading."
        Blown away by the sci-fi series NEGATION, Comics International raved: "Penciler Paul Pelletier positively shines and writer Tony Bedard mixes some superheroics into the sci-fi to great effect. Try it...you'll like it!" Maggie Thompson of Comics Buyer's Guide called EL CAZADOR "impressive," adding "this pirate series is a showcase for some of the very best art that even CrossGen has used to date...the storytelling is outstanding, and the series is selling briskly. Don't miss it." CBG also listed WAY OF THE RAT in their "Best Comics You're Not Reading (Yet)!" feature.
        Hilary Duff, The Olsen Twins...and Sephie? The teen magazine Blast! highlighted both the SOJOURN and MERIDIAN Traveler Editions and Digital Comic Books in their "Something Different" column.

SOJOURN & NEGATION MAKE "BEST OF 2003" LISTS!
        The fine folks at Comix View and BrokenFrontier.com have honored two CG series on their annual "Best Of" lists!
First, Comix View editor Daniel C. Hartman placed SOJOURN #19, the all splash-page issue, on the e-zine's "Best Comic Books 0f 2003" list. Daniel raved: "Kudos to (penciler) Greg Land, as he shows why this book is moving up the charts with a bullet! If you are a fan of incredible 'photo-realistic' art, do not miss this issue!"
        Broken Frontier.com's Kyle Litke selected NEGATION as the "Best Series Of 2003." In an article titled "The Sensation That Is Negation," Kyle stated:
"There are so many great things about NEGATION, it's difficult to know where to begin. When it comes down to it though, there's really only one place to start, and that's Tony Bedard. His name may be unknown to many, but you'll be hearing much more about him in the future, count on it. He may be one of the best writers in the comic book industry today...Tony Bedard has the rare ability to not only tell an amazing tale, but to make each and every issue action packed."

EL CAZADOR, KISS KISS BANG BANG AND SOJOURN SELECTED AS "2004 BUZZ BOOKS" BY WIZARD!
        The pounding waves of the new pirate series EL CAZADOR have swept up the staff of Wizard. First, the popular comics magazine listed EL CAZADOR #2 on their latest "Heat Index" list, saying: "No parrots. No 'argh, matey!" or 'shiver me timbers.' Just a gritty pirate tale with a majestic Spanish ship, a crew of black-hearted backstabbing buccaneers and a beautiful, vengeful mistress of the seas who commands them with saber in hand. Toss in a mutiny, an intense duel and a marooning on a desert island, and you've got a treasure trove of high seas adventure."
        The staff also named EL CAZADOR one of their 2004 "Buzz Books". Chuck Dixon and Steve Epting's nautical adventure was also joined on the elite list by the upcoming spy series KISS KISS BANG BANG and the epic fantasy saga SOJOURN. In addition, the staff spotlighted ABADAZAD, NEGATION, ROUTE 666 and WAY OF THE RAT in their "2004 Preview" list.

The entire staff at CrossGen thanks all the readers, retailers, and journalists for their continued support in 2003. And from all of us to all of you: Happy New Year!

CG SNEAK PEEK: ROUTE 666 #19!

All Hell Breaks Loose In The Nation's Capital!

The positive reviews for KISS KISS BANG BANG #1 are pouring in, but if you want to see what else writer Tony Bedard has up his sleeves before the new spy book hits (on Jan. 14th), take a ride on ROUTE 666!

This week, in issue #19, all Hell breaks loose in the nation's capital as Cassie Starkweather takes her traveling spook show to Congress! It seems that the new leader of the world's largest Communist nation is really one of those nasty ghouls that only Cassie can see...and she's determined to make sure the entire world knows!

This is the series that Publishers Weekly says "keeps readers on edge, sometimes chuckling and shivering simultaneously" -- and you'll see why on January 2nd when Bedard, penciler Karl Moline, inker Rick Magyar and colorist Wil Quintana show us what sort of monsters really walk the halls of power!

KISS KISS BANG BANG #1 GENERATES RAVES -- AND A FREE PREVIEW!

Sneak Peek Of Sexy Spy Series In All Of CG's January 2004 Titles!

The "Top Secret" 1st issue has been exposed: the advance reviews are in, and KISS KISS BANG BANG #1 has critics smiling. And so will readers once they read the free preview in all of CrossGen's January 2004 titles!

Comics Buyer's Guide's panel of reviewers gave the debut issue of the sexy spy series -- by writer Tony Bedard (NEGATION, ROUTE 666), penciler Mike Perkins (RUSE), inker Andrew Hennessy and colorist Laura Villari -- a big "thumbs up" in the "Comics In Your Future" section of CBG #1568.

"CrossGen delivers a book that fires on all cylinders! Perkins' art is fantastic, and Bedard introduces an exciting cast and a dynamic story that hits the ground running at full speed. The tagline is true: (Charles) Basildon is truly the spy you'll love to hate. Grade: A+" -Robert Scott

"First kung fu, then martial arts, now spies -- here's another fine addition to the new, non-Sigil CrossGen line." -S.A. Bennett

"CrossGen continues the process of reinventing itself with this series...a breath of fresh air for the current comic book world. There is a noted dearth of comic books that even attempt to be humorous; this one succeeds well." -Jeremy Shorr

"Another CrossGen hit...with tight cinematic storytelling at a breakneck pace." -Charlie Harris

Comics Buyer's Guide isn't alone in their praise of the over-the-top espionage romp. The staff of Wizard named KISS KISS BANG BANG a "Book To Watch" in their 2004 Preview. Meanwhile, BrokenFrontier.com posted a sneak peek of the first issue, with reviewer Mike Bullock cheering: "I've run out of unused words to describe just how good Tony Bedard's writing is...(while) Mike Perkins delivers in every respect...go get this book!" Readers ready to jet off to exotic locales filled with seductive surprises can check out a free, seven-page full color preview in the back of the following titles: BRATH #11, CRUX #33, LADY DEATH #10, NEGATION #26, ROUTE 666 #19, SCION #42, SOJOURN #31 and WAY OF THE RAT #21.

KISS KISS BANG BANG #1 (NOV032181) rockets into stores on January 14th, while KISS KISS BANG BANG #2 (DEC032300) follows on February 18th.

Readers, don't miss out on the action: make sure your local comic book retailer reserves you a copy of KISS KISS BANG BANG #1!

EL CAZADOR #4 -- AND THE COLLECTED EDITION -- SET SAIL!

Your Chance To Jump Onboard & Join The Pirates!

Ahoy, Mateys!

This week you can bid farewell to the drudgery of the workaday world and join the likes of Captain Sin, Redhand Harry and Blackjack Tom as they sail the sparkling seas in search of glory and riches! Cannons will roar, blood will pour and legends will be made as scurvy swabs and bold buccaneers battle on the open sea! Yes, on December 24th both the EL CAZADOR COLLECTED EDITION and EL CAZADOR #4 will storm into comics shops from the Atlantic to the Pacific!

The 80-page COLLECTED EDITION contains the first three issues of the plundering pirate saga, and with issue #1 and #2 now sold-out from Diamond -- and issue #3 going fast -- it's arriving just in time! Best of all, at $4.95, this handy volume is priced at nearly half of what it would cost you to buy the three individual issues (that is, if you can find them)!

The salty saga continues in EL CAZADOR #4, as Redhand Harry and his cackling crew set their sights on Captain Sin's ship! Will the vengeful mistress of the seas be blown out of the water before she can hunt down the fiends that kidnapped her family?

Here's what the critics are saying about writer Chuck Dixon and artist Steve Epting's majestic epic:

"A thrilling, beautifully illustrated grand adventure...Grade: A" -Comics Buyer's Guide

"A swashbuckling historical adventure...Steve Epting's work has never looked better!" -Comics International

"Swordfights, mutiny and marooning...one of the most beautiful books on the stands!" -TheFourthRail.com

"5 Stars!" -Cinescape

"A treasure trove of high seas adventure...(and) the next big genre hit!" -Wizard

So grab your musket and bid farewell to dreary dry land...for EL CAZADOR awaits!

Attached are files containing the covers and solicitation text for all CrossGen titles that will zoom into stores in March 2004!

In addition to regularly scheduled issues of SOJOURN, KISS KISS BANG BANG, LADY DEATH: THE WILD HUNT, BRATH and WAY OF THE RAT, special projects you may find of particular interest include NEGATION WAR Part One, RUSE: ARCHARD'S AGENTS - DEADLY DARE, and EL CAZADOR: THE BLOODY BALLAD OF BLACKJACK TOM.

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NEGATION WAR Part One
Written By Tony Bedard
Penciled By Paul Pelletier
What will the unpredictable NEGATION creative team unleash as universes collide? It's been built-up for nearly four years. Now, the world-crushing machine of the dark Negation Universe finally launches an all-out invasion of our own! Can anything challenge their horrific power and prevent utter annihilation? NEGATION has racked up critical praise month after month…now it's your chance to find out why…and to see CrossGen's first superhero!
32 pgs, full color, on sale March 24 $2.95

BRATH #14
Written By Chuck Dixon
Penciled By Andrea Di Vito
Who will avenge the son of Brath? Battling her way through a tribe of Cruithi warriors, Tani will make the guilty pay for the loss of her son!
32 pgs, on sale March 31 $2.95

EL CAZADOR: THE BLOODY BALLAD OF BLACKJACK TOM #1
Written By Chuck Dixon
Penciled By Sergio Cariello
Cover By Mike Perkins
The outrageous origin of Captain Sin's fearsome foe! His cold heart is as horribly scarred as his frightful face…but how did the deadly pirate known as Blackjack Tom get that way? Find out in this special one-shot as EL CAZADOR writer Chuck Dixon spins a twisted tale of shipwrecks, murder, and cruel, cruel fate! "The next big genre hit!" -Wizard
32 pgs, on sale March 10 $2.95

KISS KISS, BANG BANG #3
Written By Tony Bedard
Penciled By Mike Perkins
The secret past of Lazarus Bale! Who is the criminal mastermind behind the international crime cartel A.X.I.S.? Can anything save Sir Charles Basildon and Stephanie Shelley from this albino arch villain? And why doesn't he keep a bevy of beauties in his secret fortress? All the best villains do…
32 pgs, on sale March 17 $2.95

BRIAN PULIDO'S LADY DEATH: THE WILD HUNT #2
Written By Brian Pulido
Penciled By Jim Cheung
"Season Two" of LADY DEATH continues! With the Eldritch now ruling Europe, Lady Death leads the resistance with allies who were once her enemies…only to face enemies who were once allies! Who is the betrayer in their midst? And where is her most trusted friend, Wolfram Von Bach? Expect the unexpected, because Brian Pulido and Jim Cheung have turned everything upside down!
32 pgs, on sale March 31 $2.95

R.A. SALVATORE'S DEMONWARS Vol. 2: EYE FOR AN EYE
Written By Scott Ciencin
Penciled By Greg Tocchini
Coinciding with the release of R.A. Salvatore's new novel, The Highwayman, it's the next chapter of the DemonWar saga! On the hunt for justice, the mighty barbarian Andacanavar faces assassins, harems and demon djinns! Collecting DEMONWARS: EYE FOR AN EYE #1 - #6 for a nice price!
160 pgs, Traveler-sized graphic novel, on sale March 3 $9.95

RUSE: ARCHARD'S AGENTS - DEADLY DARE
Written By Chuck Dixon
Penciled By Steve McNiven
Return to the world of RUSE with a one-shot by Chuck Dixon (EL CAZADOR) and Steve McNiven (MERIDIAN and Marvel's 4)! Professional adventurer Theophilus Dare accompanies an expedition to find a fabled lost city on the floor of the sea. But there's dirty work afoot as foreign spies plot to capture Dare's experimental submarine! And if you know Dare, then you know that this is just the start of the action!
32 pgs, on sale March 10 $2.95

SOJOURN #33
Written By Ian Edginton
Penciled By Greg Land
Is Arwyn about to find the final two fragments? The good news: Arwyn, Gareth and Cassidy have located the one living being who knows where the last two fragments of Ayden's arrow are. The bad news: He's deep within the fabled mountain halls of the Iskani kings…guarded by a garrison of Mordath's trolls!
32 pgs, on sale March 24 $2.95

WAY OF THE RAT #23
Written By Chuck Dixon
Penciled By Luke Ross
More monkey madness! Boon battles an immortal creature intent on eating him…and only Po Po can save him! The problem is, the monkey mentor is trapped in a danger even he cannot figure a way out of! Plus: the Silken Ghost encounters her match in combat…but who is he? "Should thrill fans of martial arts action and monkey sidekicks!" -Cinescape
32 pgs, on sale March 31 $2.95

BRATH #10: FROM BARBARIAN TO GLADIATOR!

The Hammer of Ure Runs The Arena's Gauntlet of Death!

Lions and archers and pirates...oh, my! Betrayed on the battlefield, the noble warrior Brath must now fight for the entertainment of the Emperor! But can even the mighty Hammer of Ure survive an escalating succession of terror? Find out on December 17th as comics' manliest team of creators -- writer Chuck Dixon, penciler Andrea Di Vito, inker Roland Paris, and colorist Rob Schwager -- unleash beautiful carnage in BRATH #10!

7-PAGE SNEAK PEEK: WAY OF THE RAT #20!

New Artist, New Ring...Same Ol' Bad Luck For Boon!

This week holds a couple surprises for Boon Sai Hong. First, the tremendously talented Luke Ross joins the WAY OF THE RAT creative team as new penciler. Second, a warrior that the Jade Rat never thought he'd encounter has arrived at the frontier city of Zhumar...and, like our bumbling thief, possesses a magical ring! Who is the stranger, what ring does he wear, and what does he want with Boon? Check out the following seven pages for some of the answers, then discover more on December 17th when writer Chuck Dixon, penciler Luke Ross, inker Tom Ryder, and colorist Chris Garcia deliver WAY OF THE RAT #20!

This image by Mike Ploog is just too cool to keep under wraps.

NEGATION WAR!
TAMPA, FL, December 10, 2003

The Creative Team Behind The Acclaimed Sci-Fi Thrill Ride Takes The Spotlight And Unleashes Hell!

NEGATION WAR #1 (of 6) (Mar 04)

The best-kept secret in comic books is about to explode.

For over two years, the NEGATION creative team has generated passionate critical praise with their fast-paced and unpredictable sci-fi thriller. Now, writer Tony Bedard, penciler Paul Pelletier, inker Dave Meikis, and colorist Laura Martin have the chance to show the entire comic book industry what they've been missing in NEGATION WAR. This six-part epic, scheduled to blast-off in March 2004, finally brings together the world-smashing Negation Empire and the super-powered heroes of the CrossGen Universe in all-out combat.

For nearly four years, the building storm has been teased and hinted at in the pages across CrossGen's entire line. The mad-god Charon, having conquered his chaotic universe, has cast his baleful eye across the gulf between realities and covets the bright and thriving worlds in our cosmos. Backed by endless armies and his twisted Lawbringers, the terrifyingly charming emperor has at last given the order to launch the full invasion. Can anything stop the Negation's path of destruction? And who is the spandex-clad hero shown on the first issue's cover? Readers will uncover answers as they join the battle in only three months.

"Charon wants to 'improve' the CrossGen Universe, whether we want it or not, because he feels he knows what's best for everyone...and he'll kill as many people as it takes to do it," explained Bedard. "The CGU crew is definitely outmatched. But that's what makes things interesting. You gotta love the underdog. In the pages of NEGATION, ex-soldier Obregon Kaine and his rag-tag band of escapees have beaten immense odds in their fight for freedom. And along the way, there's been a multitude of 'Holy $#+%" moments, so expect even more of those jaw-dropping shocks in NEGATION WAR!"

NEGATION WAR Part One, created by the writer Tony Bedard, penciler Paul Pelletier, inker Dave Meikis, and colorist Laura Martin, is scheduled to reach stores on March 24th. The 32-page, $2.95 debut issue will be available for order in the January issue of Diamond's Previews catalog.

SNEAK PEEK: NEGATION #25!

The Brutal Battle Continues!

The NEGATION creative team is out of control. That's the only way we can explain the carnage that takes place in this month's issue. On one side you have Javi, acolyte of the mad god Charon...and mega-charged engine of destruction. On the other you have Obregon Kaine, leader of a rag-tag group of freedom fighters...and without an once of superhuman power. But between Obregon's military instincts and his team's will to fight, Javi and his strike force will learn the oh-so painful lesson that sometimes the difference between defeat and victory is the desperate willingness to do whatever it takes to win!

By now, you've heard every comic book reviewer worth their mylar rave about the sci-fi thrill ride. HeroRealm.com says, "This is, month after month, the most exhilarating read in the comics industry." 411mania.com agrees, stating "with some of the best characters in comics right now...NEGATION is the most consistently good book put out by any comic company." SilverBulletComicBooks.com implores: "Share the word. Tony Bedard's writing it top-notch, as is the entire art team. If you haven't started reading NEGATION yet, what's keeping you?"

With CrossGen's huge War thundering your way, now is the time to join the fight...and NEGATION #25 -- by the twisted team of writer Tony Bedard, penciler Paul Pelletier, inker Dave Meikis, and colorist Laura Martin -- is a great place to start...but not if you're squeamish!

JIM CHEUNG TAKES ROUTE 666!

Before He Leaps To Lady Death...He'll Scare You To Death!

Inside the CrossGen Studio, Jim Cheung is knocking everyone dead with his pencils for the first issue of LADY DEATH: THE WILD HUNT -- and on November 26th he'll scare you to death with his guest-art in ROUTE 666 #18!

In this "done-in-one" seaside creepfest, our psychic sweetheart stumbles upon the water-logged horror of Cape Keel...as the cool ghoul known only as Tanner closes in! Can Cassie Starkweather survive an attack by a crowd straight out of "28 Days"? Who knows...but she'll sure look good doing it, thanks to the art of Jim Cheung!

So join the rising superstar as he, writer Tony Bedard, and guest-colorist Justin Ponsor (who helps make SOJOURN look so good) present another chapter of the title that Publishers Weekly says "deftly pushes an unsettling situation as far as it can go"!

BRIAN PULIDO'S LADY DEATH: THE WILD HUNT #1
Written By Brian Pulido
Penciled By Jim Cheung
A new adventure begins - drawn by superstar Jim Cheung! The Medieval Tale jumps ahead a full year - and everything has changed! The Eldritch rule Europe! Deadly magic "craters" pockmark the landscape! In a last ditch effort to save humanity, Lady Death - strengthened by new armor - leads the underground resistance! Surrounded by allies who were once enemies, Hope now fights enemies who were once allies! Who has lived? Who has died? Expect the unexpected as Brian Pulido and Jim Cheung turn everything upside down and invite veteran and new readers alike to join the year-long celebration of Lady Death's 10th Anniversary! Brian Pulido says: "Taking a cue from the TV series 24, our MEDIEVAL TALE jumps ahead a full year, jacking up the stakes even higher. New fans can jump on board without having read any other issues, while loyal readers of the series will have all their questions answered as their favorite characters take on new roles…and new menaces!"
32 pgs, on sale Feb. 25 $2.95

ABADAZAD #3
Written By J.M. DeMatteis
Penciled By Mike Ploog
Attack of the Rocket Heads! It's the stupid vs. the inept as the Lanky Man's Rocket Heads bombard the City of Inconceivable and the Knights of Abadazad! Can Sir Plus, Sir Prize, Sir Real, Sir Round and Sir Repetitious stop them? Don't bet on it! "Grand fantasy"! -Wizard
32 pgs, on sale Feb. 25 $2.95

BRATH #13
Written By Chuck Dixon
Penciled By Andrea Di Vito
Beautiful vengeance! They betrayed her husband, burned her home and kidnapped her son. Now, pushed too far, Tani exacts revenge!
32 pgs, on sale Feb. 25 $2.95

EL CAZADOR #5
Written By Chuck Dixon
Penciled By Steve Epting
The secret of Serpenthead Cay! Where is Blackjack Tom…and what is the villainous rogue's connection to the fabled island of treasure known as Serpenthead Cay? Plus: who is helping Redhand Harry track Captain Sin and El Cazador? "Packed with costumes, sailing ships, and action, action, action!" -Comics Buyers' Guide
32 pgs, on sale Feb. 4 $2.95

KISS KISS, BANG BANG #2
Written By Tony Bedard
Penciled By Mike Perkins
The sexy '60s spy series continues! Who is Lazarus Bale, and what is his connection to the international crime cartel known only as AXIS? Those are the questions that Stephanie Shelley, the U.K.'s brightest new secret agent, must answer. Unfortunately, she also has to keep super spy Charles Basildon from getting her killed…or getting in her pants!
32 pgs, on sale Feb. 18 $2.95

MYSTIC Vol. 6: THE MATHEMAGICIAN
Written By Tony Bedard
Penciled By Aaron Lopresti
A new volume starring the sexy sorceress! What is the Geometer Guild - and how can Giselle defeat a foe powered by cold, hard mathematics? Collecting MYSTIC #33 - #38!
160 pgs, graphic novel, on sale Feb. 4 $15.95

NEGATION #27
Written By Tony Bedard
Penciled By Paul Pelletier
Prelude to war! First, Obregon Kaine learns a huge secret that blows the lid off the Sigil-Bearer vs. Negation Empire conflict! Then, Komptin - the baddest mutha in both universes - does the unthinkable in his quest to get his hands on Kaine! The cosmic collision is almost here…and this issue throws you headfirst into the big battle! "Mixes superheroics into sci-fi to great effect. Try it…you'll like it!" -Comics International
32 pgs, full color, on sale Feb. 11 $2.95

ROUTE 666 #21
Written By Tony Bedard
Penciled By Karl Moline
Better red…or dead? The Cold War gets hellishly hot when the demonic forces of Perdition overrun the communist state of Rodinia! Deep behind enemy lines, can Cassie and Cisco escape the dreaded headquarters of the secret police? "A successful mix of horror and humor!" -Publishers Weekly
32 pgs, on sale Feb. 18 $2.95

ROUTE 666
TRAVELER VOL. 1:
HIGHWAY TO HORROR
Written By Tony Bedard
Penciled By Karl Moline
A new portable & affordable volume! Been hearing about this critically acclaimed series, but didn't know where to start? Now - for a nice price that won't wallop your wallet - you can meet Cassie Starkweather, psychic hero…or psycho killer! Collecting ROUTE 666 #1 - #6!
160 pgs, on sale Feb. 18 $9.95

SOJOURN #32
Written By Ian Edginton
Penciled By Greg Land
Frozen fury! In the snowy wastes of Skarnhime, can Arwyn, Gareth and Cassidy defeat an ancient, bloodthirsty evil that preys on man and troll alike? "This book is only getting better!" -SilverBulletComicBooks.com
32 pgs, on sale Feb. 11 $2.95

SOJOURN Vol. 5: THE SORCERER'S TALE
Written By Ian Edginton
Penciled By Greg Land
A new volume of the fan-favorite fantasy! From the burning desert sands to the wild ocean seas, our terrific trio journeys around the fantastic Five Lands as new writer Ian Edginton arrives! Collecting SOJOURN #25 - #30!
160 pgs, graphic novel, on sale Feb. 11 $15.95

WAY OF THE RAT #22
Written By Chuck Dixon
Penciled By Luke Ross
It's monkey mania when Po Po grabs the spotlight! With Boon trapped in the endless treasure cave with a man-eating monster, only the monkey mentor can escape to save the day… but once he's free, will he follow through? Is this Po Po's finest hour, or his best opportunity to be rid of Boon forever? This is it, the all-monkey issue!
32 pgs, on sale Feb. 4 $2.95

PULIDO & CHEUNG HUNT LADY DEATH!

Jim Cheung Joins Brian Pulido To Launch LADY DEATH: THE WILD HUNT!

Here's the bad news: Your family, who would just as soon kill you as hug you, have conquered Europe. Your friends hate you, and your only allies are former foes. And when you're not fighting a guerilla war against the ruling forces, you're battling monsters and avoiding pockets of land that obey the laws of magic, not physics.

On the positive side, superstar artist Jim Cheung is now illustrating your adventures.

Such is the life of Lady Death, born of two bloodlines, yet belonging to neither. For the last year, writer Brian Pulido re-imagined his dark maiden, introducing the young woman named Hope to a new audience in the pages of LADY DEATH: A MEDIEVAL TALE. This March, former X-Force and Scion artist Jim Cheung joins Pulido as the series' timeline jumps forward an entire year, offering readers new visuals, new challenges, and new surprises in LADY DEATH: THE WILD HUNT.

"Perfect for lovers of dark-edged fantasy, THE WILD HUNT is crafted to shock existing fans while making complete sense to new readers," stated Pulido. "The story starts with medieval Europe now ruled by the Eldritch, an ancient magical race out to extinguish humanity, who they view as cockroaches. Even though they're outnumbered underdogs, it's up to Lady Death and her underground fighters to drive the supernatural race back through the rift they stormed through. But Hope's father was Eldritch and her mother was human. So while she looks Eldritch, Lady Death is hated by the very people she wants to save."

"I really like how the TV show 24 jumps forward in time each season. It's cool to see how the characters progress, change or transform," explained Pulido. "I wanted to do the same with LADY DEATH so I could accelerate the story, amp up the conflicts, and surprise readers."

"When Jim Cheung joined the LADY DEATH team, we all smiled," said CrossGen Senior V.P. of Publishing Bill Rosemann. "Whenever a top-tier talent takes on a cool character, the results are often magic. And after seeing Jim's first pages, that's truly the case here. So in addition to launching fresh new titles like El Cazador, Abadazad, and Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, we're also looking at how we can make every existing title stronger. And Cheung's definitely delivering the power!"

BRIAN PULIDO'S LADY DEATH: THE WILD HUNT #1, crafted by the creative team of writer Brian Pulido, penciler Jim Cheung, inker Mark Pennington, and colorist Sumi Pak, is scheduled to reach stores on February 25th. The 32-page, $2.95 debut issue will be available for order in the December issue of Diamond's Previews catalog.

KISS KISS BANG BANG TEAM ILLUSTRATES WAY OF THE RAT!

Spy Fans Get Sneak Peek Of Perkins & Hennessy's Stuff!

Those intrigued by the early images from KISS KISS BANG BANG can get a book-length taste for the art team of penciler Mike Perkins and inker Andrew Hennessy when WAY OF THE RAT #19 leaps into stores this week. As the Silken Ghost battles the swarm of spirits that plague the city of Zhumar, readers can see that Perkins and Hennessy certainly know how to deliver fine-looking female fighters! And with Chuck Dixon writing and Chris Garcia providing the hues, you'll get the total package on November 19th!

MEGACON: NEW OWNERSHIP...SAME GREAT GUESTS!

Kevin Smith, Allison Mack, And Brian Michael Bendis Headline 2004 Convention!

MegaCon, recently purchased by the convention's original director Beth Widera, is proud to announce a star-studded line-up of guests from throughout the worlds of movies, television, and comic books, headlined by special guests Kevin Smith and Jason Mewes (a.k.a. "Jay and Silent Bob"), Allison Mack (Chloe from the popular WB! TV program "Smallville"), and Ultimate Spider-Man writer Brian Michael Bendis. The 2004 genre entertainment celebration will return to the Orange Convention Center in sunny Orlando, Florida from Friday, March 5th, to Sunday, March 7th.

"The last four years have been terrific and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to maintain MegaCon's quality and continue running such a fantastic show," stated Widera. "Although I have shifted from convention director to owner, my dedication to customer service remains unchanged...as has my focus on delivering an amazing entertainment experience for the many convention attendees. I look forward to seeing my friends, family, and well-wishers at MegaCon in March!"

Additional MegaCon 2004 comic book guests scheduled to appear include: Kaare Andrews, John Cassaday, Amanda Conner, Chuck Dixon, Terry Dodson, Adam Hughes, Phil Jimenez, Greg Land, Michael Lark, David Mack, Jimmy Palmiotti, Darick Robertson, and Walter Simonson. Joining these comics superstars will be many media guests, including Brad Dourif, who portrayed Grima Wormtongue in "Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers".

SNEAK PEEK: EL CAZADOR #3!

This Red-Hot Ship Is On Fire...Literally!

He just may be Captain Sin's gravest challenge...that is, if he can survive the French gallows! Meet Redhand Harry, privateer, pirate hunter...and EL CAZADOR's next major player! Comics Buyer's Guide calls the series "impressive," stating that "the story is outstanding, and the series selling briskly. Don't miss it." Comics International echoes that praise, raving that "Steve Epting's work has never looked better." You can judge for yourself on November 19th when writer Chuck Dixon, artist Steve Epting, and colorist Jason Keith turn the heat-up in EL CAZADOR #3!

SNEAK PEEK: SOJOURN #29!

Greg Land Draws Some Real Man-Eaters!

Some guys have all the luck. But in the case of Gareth, that luck is usually all bad! It seems that in SOJOURN #29, the roguish adventurer, the avenging archer Arwyn, and the fiery thief Cassidy have washed ashore an island populated by beautiful women all hungering for Gareth's touch. How is that bad, you ask? Well, it looks like they might be hungry for more than his touch! Comics International raves, "The art is consistently outstanding...if you have any interest in the fantasy genre at all, you really should be buying this." SilverBulletComicBooks.com says that with the addition of new writer Ian Edginton, "this book is only getting better." You can join the quest on November 19th when Edginton, penciler Greg Land, inkers Matt Ryan & Jay Leisten, and colorist Justin Ponsor unleash some lethal ladies in SOJOURN #29!

Snake lives! An update and cover images from our good friends at Hurricane:

NEGATON #24 (Nov 2003)

Sneak Peek: Negation #24!
Mon, 10 Nov 2003 18:46:39 -0500

It's A Savage Superhuman Slugfest!

The Thing vs. The Hulk. The JLA vs. The Avengers. Sure, dialogue-driven character interaction in comic books is cool, but sometimes you just want to see superhumans punch each other's lights out. So if you're in the mood to watch two teams collide in all-out combat -- with some dialogue-driven character interaction thrown in for good measure -- check out NEGATION #24. On sale November 12th, this action-packed issue sees the mad-god Charon's violent enforcers go at it with Obregon Kaine's desperate team of fugitives...and both teams have nothing to lose, so don't expect any punches to be pulled! Fans of NEGATION know that writer Tony Bedard, penciler Paul Pelletier, inker Dave Meikis, and colorist Laura Martin excel at delivering wild plot twists...so if you're not a regular reader of this sci-fi thriller, just hold on tight...and watch out for flying teeth!

SNEAK PEEK: BRATH #9!

From Barbarian...To Gladiator!

Betrayed on the battlefield, the warrior known as Brath must now face the horrors of the Emperor's gladiator arena! Surrounded by man and beast who crave his death, can the Hammer of Ure defeat all -- or will the sands of the coliseum run crimson with his spilled blood?

Calling it "accessible" and "beautifully rendered," Randy Lander of TheFourthRail.com raves: "Like EL CAZADOR, BRATH is based on a historical period that is not common in comics, and is clearly based on plenty of research and executed by some exceptionally talented artists...BRATH's origins seem to lie in a combination of the epic films Gladiator and Braveheart, and to my mind, the art team has done a great job evoking the same sweeping majestic look as the creators of those films."

On November 5th, writer Chuck Dixon, penciler Andrea Di Vito, inker Roland Paris, and colorist Rob Schwager take you into the battle zone in BRATH #9!

SNEAK PEEK: ROUTE 666 #17!

Halloween Is Over...But The Screams Continue!

Another harrowing Halloween has come and gone, but if -- like Sally waiting with Linus for the Great Pumpkin -- you missed out on the frightening fun, you can take a ride down ROUTE 666! Comics International calls it "spine-chillingly spooky" while Publishers Weekly hails it as "a successful mix of horror and humor." This week, the crazy creative team of writer Tony Bedard, penciler Karl Moline, inker Drew Geraci, and colorists Wil Quintana & James Rochelle keep the creeps coming as the psychically gifted Cassie Starkweather confronts the demonic Elder Dyzan! Will Cassie's face be forever scarred by the heartland horror? All will be revealed on November 5th in ROUTE 666 #17!

6-Page Sneak Peek: Negation #23!

Sci-Fi Series Earns High Praise As It Builds To The War!

As THE WAR thunders closer, praise for NEGATION, the sci-fi thriller known for its amazing visuals and wild plot twists, continues to grow.

Applauding its "detailed and colorful" art, the School Library Journal crowned it "clever high-stakes storytelling." Likewise, Comics International called it "cool and super-slick...mixing super heroics into the sci-fi to great effect," while TheComicFantatic.com asked "just how many shock endings, twists and turns does (Tony) Bedard have left for this title?" Finally, calling it "a fantastic page turner," Jim Keplinger of Mediasharx.com said: "NEGATION continues to be the most innovative sci-fi pieces on the market today, while still being accessible to the casual reader. I am ashamed to admit that I have been squarely in the latter column for too long...but I plan to change that as this series comes to a full boil in issues leading up to THE WAR."

Those curious about the buzz can join writer Tony Bedard, penciler Paul Pelletier, inker Dave Meikis, and colorist Laura Martin for a wild ride when NEGATION #23 hits on October 29th. Continuing her search for a way home, the scheming femme fatale known as Evinlea seeks to seal a deal with the mighty Charon...but the god-emperor's newest weapons have a nasty surprise that may ensure that she never escapes their dark universe!

SNEAK PEEK: LADY DEATH #9!

Meet The Borderland's "Welcoming Committee"!

Who said you can't go home again? On a desperate quest to rescue her father, the half-human/half-Eldritch warrior known as Lady Death must journey to the enchanted land of Aglarond. To get there, she and the knight named Wulf must first cross the mysterious Borderlands...and the "welcoming committee" is rolling out a blood-red carpet! Writer Brian Pulido, penciler Fabrizio Fiorentino, inker Ron Randall, and colorist Jason Keith continue the title that Wizard calls "as sharp as a well-honed broadsword" in BRIAN PULIDO'S LADY DEATH: A MEDIEVAL TALE #9, on sale Oct. 22nd!

SNEAK PEEK: BRATH #8!

Will The Barbarian Kneel Before The Emperor?

His home burns, his child has been kidnapped...but Brath Mac Garen, a.k.a. the Hammer of Ure, will bow to no man! Betrayed on the battlefield, Brath has been taken to the feet of the Emperor...but don't expect him to kneel! Writer Chuck Dixon, penciler Andrea Di Vito, inker Roland Paris, and colorist Rob Schwager continue the story that Comix View calls "a vividly-imagined world of love, death, and survival" in BRATH #8, on sale October 22nd!

KISS KISS, BANG BANG #1
Written By Tony Bedard
Penciled By Mike Perkins
Inked By Andrew Hennesy
Colored By Laura Villari
Meet the spy you'll love to hate! From Moscow to Beijing, everyone knows the world's top espionage agent is Sir Charles Basildon of Her Majesty's Secret Service… but no one knows what he really looks like. In truth, Basildon is merely an identity passed on from one agent to the next, building up a reputation so feared and respected that the mere mention of Sir Charles is enough to make rogue nations change their wicked ways. But now times are changing, and not only is the next top spy in training a Yank…but she's also a woman! Can Stephanie Shelley, a thoroughly modern American, live up to the role of the legendary British super spy? And can she bear to learn the ropes from the current Sir Charles-the most unstoppable, deadly, and infuriatingly sexist Basildon ever?! Find out in the standalone, new-reader-friendly adventure series by Tony Bedard (NEGATION, ROUTE 666) and Mike Perkins (RUSE)!
32 pgs, on sale Jan. 14 $2.95

ABADAZAD #2
Written By J.M. DeMatteis
Penciled & Inked By Mike Ploog
Colored By Nick Bell
The all-new fantasy thriller continues! Whooshed straight out of Brooklyn, 14 year-old Kate finds herself in the magical land she's known only as fiction! Will she find help in the sky-city Inconceivable…or will an attack by an army of Rocket Heads bring a swift stop to Kate's quest? "DeMatteis makes magic…conjuring a "Harry Potter"-like fantasy tale!" -Wizard
32 pgs, on sale Jan. 28 $2.95

BRATH #12
Written By Chuck Dixon
Penciled By Andrea DiVito
Colored By Rob Schwager
Last man standing! By order of Emperor Priscus, Brath takes on all comers in a duel to the death! Will the barbarian war-chief walk from the bloody sands of the gladiator arena? "One of the best historical fiction comics I've ever read!" -411Mania.com
32 pgs, on sale Jan. 28 $2.95

EL CAZADOR: COLLECTED EDITION
Written By Chuck Dixon
Penciled & Inked By Steve Epting
Colored By Frank D'Armata & Jason Keith
EL CAZADOR #1 - #3…now in one affordable volume! You've read the rave reviews, you heard how issue #1 sold out-and now you can join the pirate-packed adventure! Individually, all three issues-if you can find them-would cost you almost $9.00…but now you can jump onboard for nearly ½ price! "Intrigue, cannons and scurvy swabs abound in this lushly illustrated tale!" -Comics Buyer's Guide
80 pgs, on sale Jan. 7 $4.95

THE FIRST Vol. 6: RAGNAROK
Written By Barbara Kesel
Penciled By Andy Smith
A new volume of the warring immortals! Driven apart by intrigue and treachery, the rival houses of the godlike First explode when their true nature is finally revealed! Collecting THE FIRST #32 - #37!
160 pgs, graphic novel, on sale Jan. 14 $15.95

BRIAN PULIDO'S LADY DEATH: A MEDIEVAL TALE #12
Written By Brian Pulido
Penciled By Aaron Lopresti
Inked By Mark Pennington
Colored By Sumi Pak
The crazed conclusion to the second story-arc! Can Lady Death rescue her father from the time-warping Welf Hole? Will Archbishop Vittorio declare war on the Eldritch? Will Thorm Gara unleash the spell-cannon on humanity? And will Obsidia get her revenge against Lady Death? All these questions-and more-are answered here! "As sharp as a well-honed broadsword!" -Wizard
32 pgs, on sale Jan. 14 $2.95

MERIDIAN #44
Written By Barbara Kesel
Penciled By Vincenzo Cucca
Inked By Don Hillsman II
Colored By Sumi Pak
Series Finale! In an ultimate test of her abilities, Sephie faces off against the strike squad handpicked by Ilahn-and the ending will deliver drastic changes both for our young hero and her scheming uncle!
32 pgs, on sale Jan. 28 $2.95

MYSTIC TRAVELER Vol. 2: THE DEMON QUEEN
Written By Ron Marz
Penciled By Brandon Peterson
Another portable & affordable volume! Given unimaginable magical might, party girl Giselle Villard must now face the uncontrollable evil of Animora! Collecting MYSTIC #7 - #12-featuring art by Brandon Peterson-for a nice price!
160 pgs, Traveler-sized graphic novel, on sale Jan. 7 $9.95

NEGATION #26
Written By Tony Bedard
Penciled By Paul Pelletier
Inked By Dave Meikis
Colored By Laura Martin
Evinlea and Charon…CrossGen's new power couple? Love and betrayal take on cosmic proportions as NEGATION's queen of mean hooks up with the god-emperor of destruction! That's right, Evinlea and Charon go on a date-and you're invited along! "Powerful…accessible and thoroughly entertaining!" -TheFourthRail.com
32 pgs, full color, on sale Jan. 14 $2.95

THE PATH #23
Written By Ron Marz
Penciled & Inked By Mark Pennington
Colored By Mike Atiyeh
Series finale! At long last, Obo-san and his rebel forces collide with the vast army of Emperor Mitsumune! Who will survive the fields of death?
32 pgs, on sale Jan. 28 $2.95

ROUTE 666 #20
Written By Tony Bedard
Penciled By Karl Moline
Inked By Rick Magyar
Colored By Wil Quintana
Behind the Iron Curtain! Cassie and Cisco are kidnapped to the communist state of Rodinia-which has been invaded by the hellish forces of Perdition! Deep behind enemy lines, can our demon-busting duo escape the dreaded headquarters of the secret police? "A canny blend of action, menace and humor!" -Publishers Weekly
32 pgs, on sale Jan. 21 $2.95

SCION #44
Written By Ian Edginton
Penciled By Sergio Cariello
Series finale! Their respective kingdoms overrun by the robotic Tigris invaders, Ethan and Ashleigh make a final desperate stand to save their new home!
32 pgs, on sale Jan. 21 $2.95

SCION Vol. 6: THE ROYAL WEDDING
Written By Ron Marz
Penciled By Jim Cheung
A new volume of the high-tech fantasy epic! Will it really happen? Will Ethan's sister marry his hated arch-nemesis Bron-or can the young prince stop the ceremony that will bind two warring kingdoms? Collecting SCION #34 - #39!
160 pgs, graphic novel, on sale Jan. 21 $15.95

SILKEN GHOST Vol. 1
Written By Chuck Dixon
Penciled By Wil Rosado
Another portable & affordable volume! From the pages of WAY OF THE RAT comes a never-before-revealed adventure of the masked martial artist! Collecting SILKEN GHOST #1 - #5 for a nice price!
160 pgs, Traveler-sized graphic novel, on sale Jan. 28 $9.95

SOJOURN #31
Written By Ian Edginton
Penciled By Greg Land
Inked By Matt Ryan
Colored By Justin Ponsor
Jump on as a new adventure begins! Venturing to the frozen wastes of Skarnhime, our heroic trio meets the ice trolls known as the Iskani! But will these fearsome warriors help Arwyn, Gareth and Cassidy face the beast that hungers for their flesh? "Ian Edginton comes in with a roar that would put a lion to shame!" -BrokenFrontier.com
32 pgs, on sale Jan. 21 $2.95

WAY OF THE RAT #21
Written By Chuck Dixon
Penciled By Jeff Johnson
Inked By Tom Ryder
Colored By Chris Garcia
Treasure trap! The good news: Boon and Po Po have stumbled upon a cave filled with riches. The bad news: our kung-fu couple has also found a vicious guardian that won't rest until all intruders are dead! "Mixes magic and mayhem…(for) a rollicking good time!" -Comics Buyer's Guide
32 pgs, on sale Jan. 10 $2.95

ROUTE 666 #16: HORROR IN THE HEARTLAND!

Bedard & Moline Will Freak You Out!

There's a reason why Comics Buyer's Guide gave ROUTE 666 an "A" and Publishers Weekly said that "(Tony) Bedard's writing keeps readers on edge, sometimes chuckling and shivering simultaneously." And that reason is because Bedard and penciler Karl Moline know how to set the scene, build the tension...and then freak you out! Want to judge for yourself? Read the first six pages from ROUTE 666 #16. Just in time for Halloween, Cassie Starkweather continues her quest to stop a supernatural invasion...and discovers horror in the heartland on October 22nd!

SNEAK PEEK: ARCHARD'S AGENTS!

The Artist of Kiss Kiss Bang Bang Illustrates The Case Of The Puzzled Pugilist!

Before KISS KISS BANG BANG shoots into your hands in January, you'll have a chance to check out the art of Mike Perkins next week! Featuring both pencils and inks by Perkins, ARCHARD'S AGENTS #1: THE CASE OF THE PUZZLED PUGILIST stars former prize fighter Peter Grimes, who -- away from the watchful eye (and brilliant brain) of master sleuth Simon Archard -- attempts to solve a mystery of his own! The question is, can a brawny boxer crack a case without using his fists? Writer Chuck Dixon, artist Mike Perkins and colorist Christina Strain reveal all on October 22nd!

KISS KISS BANG BANG!
TAMPA, FL, October 15, 2003

Tony Bedard and Mike Perkins Introduce The Spy You'll Love To Hate!

Building on the sold-out launch of EL CAZADOR, writer Tony Bedard (NEGATION, ROUTE 666) and penciler Mike Perkins (RUSE) will introduce CrossGen's next stand-alone adventure series in January 2004. Surrounded by the political, cultural and sexual revolutions of London in the swinging '60s, three MI6 agents fight for the safety of the globe - and scheme to claim the UK's #1 espionage job - in the sizzling spy series KISS KISS BANG BANG.

The new monthly title shines the spotlight on the world's top agent, Sir Charles Basildon of Her Majesty's Secret Service. While no one within the international espionage community knows what Basildon actually looks like, the mere mention of his name is enough to terrify spymasters from Moscow to Beijing. In truth, Basildon is merely an identity cooked up by MI6 and passed on from one agent to the next. But times are changing, and that's where the series takes a wicked zigzag.

As the story opens, not only is the next Basildon-in-training a "Yank"...but she's also a woman. Can Stephanie Shelley, a thoroughly modern American, live up to the role of the legendary British super spy? And can she bear to learn the ropes from the current Sir Charles - the most lethal, infuriating, and unrepentantly sexist Basildon ever?

"Over-the-top in its humor and action, KISS KISS BANG BANG asks 'what would a spy like James Bond be like in the real world?'" Bedard stated. "If you actually met him, some might see Basildon as a smooth operator. Then again, you might think he's an amoral adrenaline junkie and a sociopathic sexual predator. Whichever you decide, he's a loose cannon who frequently holds the fate of the Free World in his fanny-slapping hands."

"We're going for all-out excitement, exotic locales and expectant character interaction - while also exploring the sexual politics of the age," Perkins revealed. "As a life-long espionage fan, this is the perfect chance to draw everything from groovy fashion and exotic locales to retro-future gadgets and sexy agents of the crown. Everything you want to put into a book like this - and everything that people want to see - will be there...and then we'll add that extra bit, just to confound your expectations and put your knickers in a twist."

On sale January 14th, KISS KISS BANG BANG #1 - crafted by the creative team of writer Tony Bedard, penciler Mike Perkins, inker Andrew Hennessy, and colorist Laura Villari - will be offered in the November 2003 edition of Diamond's Previews catalog.

SNEAK PEEK: SOJOURN #28!

Arwyn Vs. The Evil Dead!

Arwyn just can't catch a break. First the avenging archer lost her husband and daughter. Now, washed ashore an isolated island, she confronts the fact that her loyal dog Kreeg may have been taken by the sea. But it looks like she won't have time to mourn...because the island's own dead denizens are on the prowl! When Ian Edginton joined the creative team, the folks at BrokenFronteir.com stated that the skilled scribe "came in with a roar that would put a lion to shame." On October 15th, Edginton, penciler Greg Land, inker Jay Leisten, and colorist Justin Ponsor keep the thrills and chills coming, as zombies stalk the pages of SOJOURN #28!

SIGIL #40: THE BEST PERSON FOR THE JOB!

The Negation Is Coming...Who Will Lead Us?

Sometimes, it all comes down to picking the best person for the job. A leader who inspires by example...and then trusts in the team to succeed. And now that the nefarious Negation Empire has breached the barriers into our Universe, we need a leader to do just that. But it looks like we won't have to choose one...because the battle-scarred soldier known simply as Sam has stepped forward! But is even his amazing power enough to repel the mighty invaders? Find out on October 15th when writer Chuck Dixon, penciler Dale Eaglesham, inker Andrew Hennessy, and colorist Andrew Crossley deliver SIGIL #40!

ANOTHER CHANCE TO JUMP ONBOARD EL CAZADOR!

New Issue And Second Printing Hit This Week!

Powered by a one-week sell-out, EL CAZADOR #1 sails into stores again, as a 2nd printing--and issue #2--reach stores this week. Hailed as "a sweeping pirate epic" by Wizard and "a thrilling, beautifully illustrated grand adventure" by Comics Buyer's Guide, EL CAZADOR stars Captain Sin, a Spanish Donessa who takes command of a pirate ship in order to hunt the buccaneers who've kidnapped her family. But now that their hangovers have worn off, those scurvy-ridden scalawags are ready to take their boat back! Writer Chuck Dixon, artist Steve Epting and colorist Frank D'Armata invite you onboard on October 8th!

LADY DEATH GUEST STARS ON DEAD LIKE ME!

CrossGen Comic Book Appears On Showtime Program!

Issue #1 of BRIAN PULIDO'S LADY DEATH appeared in a scene during the September 26th episode of Showtime's darkly comedic afterlife drama, Dead Like Me. Starring Mandy Patinkin and Ellen Muth, Dead Like Me follows the adventures of a young woman who, after realizing she has died, joins a group of grim reapers who gather souls while also grappling with issues left unresolved in their own lives. In the season finale a grim reaper was shown reading LADY DEATH #1 in the lobby of an animal hospital.

You can see clips from the episode, titled "Rest In Peace," at: www.sho.com/../episodes_past.cfm?episode=119391

CROSSGEN LAUNCHES Comics On The Web 3.0

New Version Debuts America Online Keyword: CrossGen, New Front End, Language Translations and New Features

Just a year and a half after the initial launch of CrossGen's Comics on the Web online subscription content service, CrossGen has launched the second enhanced version that has generated thousands of members, dozens of Web partner sites and companion sites in Spanish and in Korean.

CrossGen has also signed an agreement with America Online, the world's leader in interactive services, which establishes an AOL Keyword for CrossGen. America Online Keyword: CrossGen will drive more traffic to CrossGen's site while at the same time provide hundreds of pages of comics content for free use by AOL's members.

Comics on the Web Version 3.0 features an easier-to-use front end, while also providing translated front ends in other languages, such as Spanish, French, German, Italian and Japanese. The service features comics translated in all those languages, as well. A key shift from one-bit to two-bit language support enabled CrossGen to incorporate character-sets from Asian languages into its online service. Other features include:

* Alternate audio track support including voice-overs and creator commentary
* Asian language support e.g., Japanese/Korean
* Automatic balloon movement synced with audio track
* New Code 6 titles, including Brian Pulido's Lady Death and R.A. Salvatore's DemonWars
* Shortened movement from stand date to online release, reduced from six to three months

CrossGen has also established a partnership with ecomix, the most popular online comics portal in South Korea: www.ecomix.co.kr/.../?section=fantasy

Finally, CrossGen also has established a Germany-based portal, as well: www.comicsontheweb.com/../cow.frameset.asp

"With sites ringing the world, a partnership with AOL and a whole new site fueled by nearly 350 issues, we're honored to help bring comics to new audiences," said Courtland Whited, CrossGen's Director of Information Technology. "The key to making it all work is quality comics, and no matter the medium, that will always be at the center of CrossGen."

SNEAK PEEK: R.A. SALVATORE'S DEMONWARS #5!

Tocchini Unleashes The Action In The Series Finale!

The barbarian ranger known as Andacanavar sure is in a pickle. He's been sentenced to death by a leader of sword-bearing soldiers, a legion of warrior mystics may still be after his head, and a demonic djinn wants his entire body! On the other hand, he has the terrifically talented Greg Tocchini drawing his adventures...so it all balances out, right?

You can find out if Andacanavar escapes unscathed on October 8th when R.A. SALVATORE'S DEMONWARS: EYE FOR AN EYE #5 -- delivered by Tocchini, writer Scott Ciencin, inkers Andrew Pepoy & Ron Randall and colorists Hi-Fi Design -- storms into stores on October 8th!

CINESCAPE SPOTLIGHTS BOON & PO PO!

Way of the Rat #1 Included in Popular Genre Magazine!

Continuing its efforts to share the excitement of comic books with the world, the Oct./Nov. issue of Cinescape magazine contains a free Cinescape Special Edition of WAY OF THE RAT #1. The full-color 32-page comic also features a "First Look" at penciler Jeff Johnson's sketchbook and a previously unpublished pin-up of the mysterious sailor known only as the Falconer.

In a full-page article, Arnold T. Blumberg, Senior Editor of the popular genre magazine, writes: "This issue, Cinescape is proud to feature a special premium edition of CrossGen's WAY OF THE RAT #1, written by Chuck Dixon. The comic follows the exploits of an outlaw and his simian companion as they encounter all manner of adventures in a land much like ancient China... (and) should thrill fans of martial arts action and monkey sidekicks."

The popular genre magazine continues its coverage of all things CrossGen with a five star review of EL CAZADOR #1 and an in-depth article on our education initiative BRIDGES titled "Bridging the Generation Gap: CrossGen wants to show kids that comics are still fun -- and educational -- to read."

Coinciding with the release of the Cinescape Special Edition, WAY OF THE RAT #17 -- featuring spooky spirits and more monkey mayhem -- leapt into comics shops on October 1st.

SIX-PAGE SNEAK PEEK: WAY OF THE RAT #17!

Spooky Spirits Zoom Through Zhumar!

Who says that you can only celebrate Halloween on October 31st? That's why we're kicking off the spooky season this Wednesday! Can the masked martial artist known as the Silken Ghost save the city of Zhumar from real poltergeists? And what good will the bumbling thief named Boon Sai Hong be against spirits as sinister as Judge X'ain? Writer Chuck Dixon, penciler Jeff Johnson, inker Tom Ryder, and colorist Chris Garcia will scare you silly in the pages of WAY OF THE RAT #17!

THE ARMIES ASSEMBLE IN THE PATH #18!

As The Rain Falls, The Samurai Numbers Rise!

Booklist likens THE PATH to "a Clint Western--moody, epic and iconoclastic--with characters, heroes and villains alike, mostly victims of circumstance and their code of honor." And if you check out the following pages from THE PATH #18 you'll see that the "epic" quality is ramping up! While the monk-turned-warrior known as Obo-san gathers his troops for revolt, the mad Emperor Mitsumune rebuilds his samurai army...spelling certain doom for the rebellion! Writer Ron Marz, penciler Ron Wagner, inker Tom Mandrake and colorist Frank D'Armata gather the troops on September 24th!

BRATH...BOUND & BATTERED?!

Barbarian War-Chief All Washed Up In Brath #7!

With EL CAZADOR #1 sailing out of comics shops so quickly, it's obvious that many readers are hungry for nautical adventure...but something tells me that the Hammer of Ure prefers dry land! Betrayed on the battlefield, the mighty Brath Mac Garen has been captured by the insidious Empire--who are transporting him to their capital city in a most maleficent manner!

So if you enjoyed writer Chuck Dixon's tale of pirates in EL CAZADOR, see how he, penciler Andrea Di Vito, inker Roland Paris, and colorist Rob Schwager take on warriors and legions in BRATH #7! 411Mania.com's Kyle Litke calls this series "one of the best historical fiction comics I've ever read"...and you can find out why on September 24th!

EL CAZADOR #1 SOLD OUT! 2ND PRINTING ON THE HORIZON!

Debut Of Acclaimed Pirate Adventure Series Is CrossGen's Fastest Selling Issue Ever!

EL CAZADOR #1, CrossGen Entertainment's fastest selling issue ever, is sold out from Diamond Comics Distributors. With positive reviews and reader enthusiasm still increasing, CrossGen has sent the debut issue back to press. EL CAZADOR #1 Second Printing (AUG035066), including no interior ads or additional editorial back matter, will feature a new cover showcasing an iconic image that captures the exotic setting of the pirate adventure. The 32-page Second Printing of the debut issue by writer Chuck Dixon, artist Steve Epting and colorist Frank D'Armata will reach stores on October 8th, the same day that EL CAZADOR #2 (AUG032093) goes on sale.

"We overprinted EL CAZADOR #1 by quite a bit, but thanks to the readers' enthusiasm, we blew through those extra copies in short order," said Chris Oarr, CrossGen Vice President of Sales. "That's in addition to the 25% extra copies most retailers received free of charge for hitting their incentive levels. We're thrilled to see so many books sold by our retailing partners, and with Diamond's help we're going to get even more copies onto shelves as soon as possible."

"The creative team is extremely gratified by the response to EL CAZADOR," stated Dixon. "We suspected there was a comics audience out there for this kind of period adventure, but we thought we'd have to hunt longer for it. Instead, the audience found us and sales have forced us back to press. Steve, Frank, and I worked hard to nail the Golden Era of Pirates, and the response by readers and retailers is the greatest thanks we could receive!"

In addition to strong sales, the debut issue has also generated overwhelmingly positive critical response:

"A thrilling, beautifully illustrated grand adventure. Grade: A" -Comics Buyer's Guide

"A sweeping pirate epic!" -Wizard

"There's a stunning level of realism at play here. Epting captures a sense of the historic with seeming ease... (and) I love the sexy but tortured tone he brings to the book's heroine." -TheFourthRail.com

"Tremendous artwork...every character is beautifully rendered, and action sequences crackle." -MediaSharx.com

"It's rare to find such intensity and grab-you-by-the-collar enchantment...Gorgeous art and historically authentic writing combine to make EL CAZADOR one of the strongest comics debuts of the year." -HeroRealm.com

"EL CAZADOR has intrigue, historical accuracy, and enough action to make any comic fan walk the plank with anticipation of next month's issue." -BrokenFrontier.com

"Captures the gritty reality of nautical adventure. The result just may be the most attractive comic in CrossGen history." -Comic Shop News

"Incredible storytelling and amazing art...EL CAZADOR really looks to be a hit for CrossGen." -PaperBackReader.com

"Chuck, Steve, and Frank proved they're righteous rogues of savage skill," added Bill Rosemann, CrossGen Director of Marketing & Communications. "And now that their bloody book has built up so much buzz, we expect to see increasing demand for additional issues. So if retailers want to avoid angry buccaneers storming their stores, we urge them to look at their orders for upcoming issues and send in any increases now."

EL CAZADOR #1 Second Printing (AUG035066) and EL CAZADOR #2 (AUG032093) are available for order and are scheduled to arrive in stores on October 8 with a cover price of $2.95 U.S. each. Retailers may place orders by contacting their Diamond Customer Service Representative.

VALIANT SCION #39 COMPLETES CROSSGEN'S TRIPLE THREAT!

Homage To Hal Foster Hits On September 17th!

This Wednesday, three of CrossGen's top titles hit: SOJOURN #27, ROUTE 666 #15 and SCION #39! And if you've ever wanted to try these series, each issue offers the perfect place to jump onboard!

Utilizing a special vertical presentation in homage to Hal Foster's legendary Prince Valiant comic strip, SCION #39 marks the final issue by the acclaimed creative team of writer Ron Marz and penciler Jim Cheung.

"I'd had the idea of a Hal Foster-inspired issue for quite a while, and we were just waiting for the right time, and the right story, to do it," said Marz. "When Jim and I agreed that #39 was going to be the last issue for both of us, it seemed like a natural fit. Part of the inspiration for SCION was Foster's Prince Valiant, and I looked at this as a way to pay homage, but also a way for us to doing something a little different. I like to play with format where it's appropriate, and I couldn't be happier with the way this turned out."

You can join Marz, Cheung, inker Mark Morales and colorist Jason Keith for a historic tour of Avalon--and even take a glimpse at the possible future of Ethan and Ashleigh--on September 17th!

CROSSGEN TRIPLE THREAT! BOOK 2: ROUTE 666 #15!

Two Cool Comics--And One Twisted Tale--Hit On September 17th!

Joining SOJOURN #27 and SCION #39 in comics shops this Wednesday, the sickening story in ROUTE 666 #15 dares brave readers to try the buzz building book!

Taking a horrific hairpin turn down a scorching stretch of highway, the chilling chapter presented by writer Tony Bedard, guest-artist John McCrea, and acclaimed colorist Justin Ponsor is destined to turn even the strongest stomachs!

Nearly up-chucking on his keyboard, TheFourthRail.com reviewer Don MacPherson called it "a horror story that reminds me of the kind of thing one might expect from the twisted minds of Garth Ennis and Warren Ellis."

"I wrote this story specifically for John's over-the-top visual style and his gift for making grotesque characters real, and engaging...and disturbingly funny!" explained Bedard. "It's a gasoline-drinking, toddler-roasting good time!"

How far will a man go to save his son? What's cooking in the BBQ grill behind the Gas N Go? And just how demented can Tony Bedard get? Find out in a special standalone issue of what AintItCoolNews.com hails as "the best horror comic to hit the stands since Alan Moore's run on Swamp Thing!"

p.s. Fear not, MacPherson didn't puke...he's one tough hombre!

LOOK, IT'S TRI-KLOPS!

A New Icons Of Evil Gazes At One Of He-Man's Most Fearsome Foes!

Before Skeletor terrorized Eternia in search of the universe's ultimate power...there was Keldor, a fearsome fighter studying the dark art of sorcery. Plotting to challenge the forces of good, Keldor gained the loyalty and respect of the most dangerous creatures ever to exist. Each of these warriors had a dark past...and now MVCreations and CrossGen shine a light on He-Man's most vile villains in the ICONS OF EVIL one-shots!

Deep within the heart of Eternia's Dark Hemisphere stands a fortress containing mind-blowing technology...and Keldor wants it! But how will his mad quest transform the noble swordsman who guards the castle's secrets into a living weapon? Writer Robert Kirkman reveals all on September 10th in the pages of MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE--ICONS OF EVIL: TRI-KLOPS!

EL CAZADOR SETS SAIL THIS WEEK!

Dixon, Epting & D'Armata Unleash The Golden Age Of Pirates!

With the September 10th launch date for EL CAZADOR #1 on the horizon, the gang in the studio thought you'd appreciate a special sneak peek at the first five pages of their new monthly title! Crafted by the all-star team of writer Chuck Dixon, artist Steve Epting and colorist Frank D'Armata, EL CAZADOR brings the Golden Age of pirates storming back into comics! Issue #1 introduces the world to Captain Sin, a Spanish Donessa who--after her family is kidnapped by brutal buccaneers--searches the seven seas on a quest for vengeance!

This is a story that the creative team has been burning to tell, and their extensive research and love for the time period will deliver a rousing adventure that'll sweep you away to a time of romance and danger! Their efforts have already impressed the critics, as Comics Buyer's Guide raved: "Epting's art is lush and cinematic...EL CAZADOR is a thrilling, beautifully illustrated grand adventure." Joining the buzz, Comic Shop News said: "Forget those peg-leg walk-the-plank melodramas--Dixon and Epting are going for reality here with a pirate saga that captures the gritty truth of nautical adventures. The result just may be the most attractive comic in CrossGen history."

And for those of you still deciding whether you're going to jump onboard, you should also know that this is a series designed to stand squarely on its own two feet with no ties to existing CrossGen titles. That means no Sigils...but plenty of action so authentic you can smell the scurvy!

Here's a direct link to the signed, limited-edition "Call To Arms" posters--created by penciler George Pérez, inker Rick Magyar and colorist Mike Atiyeh: www.crossgen.com/shop/cgdirect/view.asp

PEREZ SIGNS "CALL TO ARMS"!

Due To Popular Demand, Teaser Image Becomes Signed Poster!

THE WAR: CALL TO ARMS POSTER (24x36) (Sep 2003), Signed & Numbered THE WAR: CALL TO ARMS POSTER (11x17) (Sep 2003), Signed

Faster than Negation forces swarming across our universe, fandom rallied around CrossGen's "Call To Arms".

Moments after the iconic teaser--heralding the explosive Spring 2004 event--was posted on popular comic book and entertainment websites such as Comicon.com, MediaSharx.com, Newsarama, and SilverBulletComicBooks.com, requests for a printed version poured in to CrossGen Studios. Starting today, CG Direct will accept orders for the following one-time only commemorative prints, both signed by superstar artist George Pérez:

CALL TO ARMS POSTER
Measuring 24" x 36", this full-color image is signed and numbered by George Pérez. Only 1,000 of these commemorative-signed posters will ever be printed!
Price: $29.95

CALL TO ARMS PRINT
Measuring 11" x 17", this full-color image is signed by George Pérez.
Price: $9.95

Both items are available now... so answer the "Call To Arms" at Crossgen.com.

In celebration of JLA/Avengers #1 reaching stores today, we thought you'd like a sneak peek of what George Pérez is cooking up next...

Related

THE WAR #1

COMIC BOOK IDOLS COVER CROSSGEN!

Breakout Talents Deliver Their Take On Ruse, The Path, Route 666 And More!

Over 160 hopefuls answered the call. Ten were selected to compete. Only six remain. Who will emerge as the first-ever Comic Book Idol? The race heats up this week as the remaining contestants strive to survive by delivering their take on a cover for a CrossGen title.

Partnering with J. Torres' Comic Book Idol contest at ComicBookResources.com, CrossGen will award one undiscovered artist the chance to illustrate a short story for the samurai series THE PATH, written by Ron Marz and art directed by fan favorite artist Bart Sears. Running for five rounds, Comic Book Idol assigns unpublished artists weekly challenges judged by a panel of industry personalities, including Oni Editor In Chief Jamie S. Rich, Marvel Editor In Chief Joe Quesada, and CrossGen Senior Writer Ron Marz. Readers are then invited to vote for their favorite artist, selecting who will ultimately stand tall as the remaining Comic Book Idol.

"Comic Book Idol has been an amazing opportunity," stated Michael Flores, who submitted a ROUTE 666 cover. "Every time my palms start to sweat while reading one of the judges' comments, I remember that there are thousands of guys out there who would kill to be in the position of having Joe Quesada, Jamie S. Rich, or Ron Marz tearing their egos to shreds every week. I'd like to think that I have taken their criticisms to heart, and am trying to improve my work with each assignment."

Jonathan Hickman, submitting a cover for THE PATH, added, "The idol competition has been very rewarding so far. The contestants are challenging each other and as a result, the art has gotten better every week. Everyone involved knows what an opportunity this is, and it just says a lot about how the judges and the companies involved are committed to cultivating new talent in the industry."

"Besides the obvious opportunities created by the contest, the added bonus is the direct feedback from the fans," commented Martin Redmond, who submitted a RUSE cover. "As an artist working in the video game industry, I have to work in concert with and please only about a handful of people. In this contest, I have to keep track of the voters' opinion and rally-up fans, so that I can make work that's tailor-made to please the crowd and gain precious votes. It makes me some kind of a micro one-person-company that has to handle both production and marketing, which is an exciting challenge."

Also submitting a RUSE cover, Chris Ring stated, "It was a real honor to be selected amongst such a fine group of talent. At first you're sky high because you've been given the chance to show your work to some of the most influential people in the business. Then it's like performing in front of a live audience and you've only had a few days to prepare. The judges are watching, the fans are watching, and there are always a few hecklers in the crowd. Hopefully when you're done they're clapping and not hurling tomatoes, but if you get the odd tomato, you know where you need to work on your act. It's a great learning experience and one heck of a rush!"

"Being in the Comic Book Idol contest has not only been a great opportunity to have my work seen by discerning professionals and fans alike, but also to work with some great characters from a variety of different books," added Patrick Scherberger, who submitted a ROUTE 666 cover. "As I've done the entire competition, I gave my CrossGen cover my all, and I hope the fans and judges like my work."

L. Frank Webber, submitting a MERIDIAN cover, succinctly summed his experience, saying: "This is a pretty fun event."

"In this talent contest, the audience decides who moves on to subsequent rounds, and it doesn't matter who Joe Quesada's favorite is, or how much Ron Marz wants to work with one contestant, or even how much Jamie Rich hates someone's art--ultimately the Comic Book Idol will be the people's choice," stated J. Torres. "Meanwhile, Ron Marz has been amazing! I mean, this man shows up the day after his third child is born--beat and sleep deprived--to post some very constructive criticism for our contestants that, in a couple of cases, put certain artists on cloud nine. He's gone above and beyond, and it's an honor that he is one of our judges...as well as one of our prizes."

Who will you vote for? You can help one contestant reach THE PATH right now at ComicBookResources.com.

HE-MAN THINKS THAT TRAPJAW BITES!

Learn The Secret Histories Of The Icons Of Evil!

Before Adam was given the power...before Grayskull held the energy of the Elders...before Skeletor terrorized Eternia in search of the universe's ultimate power...there was Keldor, a skilled fighter studying the dark art of sorcery. Plotting to challenge the forces of good, Keldor gained the loyalty and respect of the most vile creatures ever to exist. Each of these warriors had a dark past...and now MVCreations and CrossGen shine a light on He-Man's most fearsome foes in the ICONS OF EVIL one-shots!

On September 4th, writer Robert Kirkman, artist Carlo Pagulayan, and colorist Ron Riley tell the tale of Kronis, the once-proud fighter who became the mechanized minion known as Trapjaw! Why was he at odds with the newly disfigured Skeletor--and how was Kronis himself horribly changed? Find out in the pages of MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE--ICONS OF EVIL: TRAPJAW!

NEGATION: THE BEST COMIC YOU'RE NOT READING?

Issue #21 Is Your Chance To Jump Onboard The Critically-Acclaimed Sci-Fi Thrill Ride!

With so many great talents creating so many phenomenal stories, how do you pick which books to buy each week? Well, word of mouth certainly seems to help cut through the crowd...but every company thinks that their series are the coolest, so why listen to us? Fortunately you don't have to...because all of these critics agree: NEGATION is one of the best comics that you're not reading!

"Tony Bedard has crafted one of the most innovative sci-fi worlds in modern comics...this is one of the best on the market, week in and week out." -Comixtreme.com

"An unadulterated entertaining force...an ingeniously seductive space opera that bristles with energy and excitement." -BrokenFrontier.com

"This creative team is producing a rip-roarin' roller coaster of a read." -Comics International

"If you haven't picked up on this book yet, do so now. You've been missing one of the best reads in the last two and a half years." -Collected Edition

"Whoa! CrossGen gets hardcore! Great setting, characters, premise, and action!" -FanBoyRadio.com

"CrossGen has done it again with this hypnotizing mix of action, adventure, and exciting conflict!" -SilverBulletComicBooks.com

"Hands down, this is the best sci-fi comic book on the market today!" -TheComicFanatic.com

"With more twists and turns than a Bond movie, Tony Bedard doesn't let his characters rest for a moment...I can't believe more people aren't reading this terrific series." -411Mania.com

"For a while now, I've been hearing a buzz around NEGATION...(which) features terrific artwork by Paul Pelletier, someone whom I've always liked but who, like so many artists, seems to have stepped his work up a notch after moving to CrossGen...NEGATION #21 serves as a good introduction, and it certainly has piqued my curiosity." -Snap Judgments, TheFourthRail.com

So if the chorus hasn't convinced you, why not judge for yourself? Like TheFourthRail said, there's never been a better time to join our rag tag band of fugitives as they attempt to overthrow and escape a dark empire. This week, writer Tony Bedard, penciler Paul Pelletier, inker Dave Meikis and colorist Laura Martin have cooked up a twisted turning point in the cosmic conflict. Deep within the bowels of a deadly prison, our harried heroes take on their greatest challenge yet when they attempt to free the leader of the Resistance. The question is: is this new hope worth the sacrifice? Find out in NEGATION #21, on sale September 4th!

SIGIL #39: WHEN ALIENS ATTACK!

It's The Saurians Vs. The Negation...And It Won't Be Pretty!

THE WAR is approaching and no one in the CrossGen Universe is safe...not even the Saurians! Yes, when one of their own planets is engulfed, the sworn enemy of humanity must face the invading Negation forces! But no one told the Negation to fight fair--so don't expect writer Chuck Dixon, guest penciler Ron Wagner, inker Armando Durruthy and colorist Andrew Crossley to pull any punches! So grab your blaster and join the battle on September 4th when SIGIL #39 rockets into a store near you!

GHOSTS KILL IN WAY OF THE RAT #16!

Who Will Fall Under The Assassin's Sword?

Roaring cannons and rampaging dragons were only the beginning. Now a plague of ghosts has overtaken the grand city of Zhumar! Yes, writer Chuck Dixon, penciler Jeff Johnson, inker Tom Ryder and colorist Chris Garcia certainly enjoy making life difficult for the bumbling thief named Boon Sai Hong--and readers wouldn't have it any other way!

Comics Buyers Guide says: "Mixing magic and mayhem...WAY OF THE RAT provides a rollicking good time for those who like their action light and their heroes perpetually off-balance."

BrokenFrontier.com adds: "WAY OF THE RAT delivers action, martial arts fantasy and more laughs than a barrel full of talking monkeys!"

Comics International states: "Chuck Dixon writes an engaging tale brought to life perfectly by penciler Jeff Johnson. And, as typical with CrossGen titles, the inker and colorist play a vital part in keeping the visuals sharp. A high-kickin' comic."

TheFourthRail.com raves: "WAY OF THE RAT continues to impress! Dixon's instilled it with humor, mysticism and excitement!"

In issue #16, the spirit of the vengeful Judge X'ain inhabits the body of the deadliest assassin in all the empire! Will he use this newfound host to bring peace to his terrified city...or to settle old scores? What do you think? Be there on August 20th as another cast member falls beneath the blade!

Nothing Is Up Her Sleeve In Mystic #39!

Over the last year, former party girl Giselle Villard has traveled around her world learning all she can about magic. Now, in MYSTIC #39, she'll have to pass the ultimate test! But as the following pages demonstrate, sometimes a woman has to rely on a trick or two that only she knows! Will this be enough to gain her freedom, and release all of Ciress from the grip of Archemus, Master of the Geometer Guild? Class is in session on August 20th, when writer Tony Bedard, penciler Aaron Lopresti, inker Matt Ryan and colorist Wil Quintana teach us all the Great Bra Trick!

WHO WILL TAKE THE PATH?

Which Undiscovered Talent Will Become The "Comic Book Idol" And Win A Chance To Draw A Samurai Story?

Continuing the mission to not only develop the next generation of comic book readers, but to also discover the next generation of comic book creators, CrossGen is awarding an unpublished artist the chance to pencil a story for the acclaimed samurai series THE PATH. Participating with J. Torres' "Comic Book Idol" contest at ComicBookResources.com, CrossGen will award one undiscovered penciler the chance to illustrate a short story written by Ron Marz and art directed by fan favorite penciler Bart Sears.

"Comic Book Idol" is a five-week, five-round contest that will assign hopeful pencilers weekly art challenges. A panel of industry personalities, including Oni Editor-In-Chief Jamie S. Rich, Marvel Editor-In-Chief Joe Quesada, and CrossGen Senior Writer Ron Marz, will critique the submitted art.

"The next wave of talent is out there, and it's just a matter of finding it and nurturing it," stated Marz. "As much as aspiring artists want to break in, the truth is that publishers like CrossGen are just as anxious to find promising talent. The 'Comic Book Idol' contest is a great chance for artists to show off what they can do in a structured process, with specific assignments and deadlines."

"We're going to put these guys through their paces and see who's left standing at the end," added Marz. "And then, of course, the real work begins: drawing a story written by me for publication in THE PATH."

Over 160 hopefuls answered the initial call. Only ten were selected to compete. Who will be eliminated? Who will emerge as the first ever "Comic Book Idol"? You can follow the contestants' journey to THE PATH each week through Torres' "Open Your Mouth" column at ComicCookResources.com.

DRAGON'S LAIR #1: YOUR QUEST AWAITS!

Don Bluth's Classic Fantasy Adventure Continues!

Two decades ago, Dragon's Lair thrilled fans by combining feature-quality animation with revolutionary computer technology for a smash-hit arcade game. A whole new generation of players recently discovered Bluth's genius through the Dragon's Lair 3D game. Now, everyone who loves the Bluth art style is invited once again to a time of swords, sorcery, brave knights and fighting-mad princesses! Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the fantasy epic, MVCreations and CrossGen are bringing the master animator's classic concept to the printed page in an all-new DRAGON'S LAIR mini-series! Writer Andy Mangels, artist Fabio Laguna and colorist Tony Washington bring back Dirk the Daring, Princess Daphne and the deadly dragon Singe on August 20th! Lead on, adventurer... your quest awaits!

DEMONWARS #4: TOCCHINI'S TERRIFIC!

New Star Shines In Latest Issue Of R.A. Salvatore's Epic!

Fantasy author R.A. Salvatore sure has a lot of fans...and thanks to DEMONWARS: EYE FOR AN EYE, those readers are now most likely fans of Greg Tocchini as well! Yes, the rising star sure has opened up quite a few eyes with his powerful pencils, and this fight scene in issue #4 clearly demonstrates why.

With a story by R.A. Salvatore and Scott Ciencin, pencils by Tocchini, inks by Andrew Pepoy and colors by Tad Ehrlich, the latest chapter opens with the acrobatic Ketsuo confronting his former family, the marked mystics known as the Jhesta Tu! Meanwhile, the barbarian ranger Andacanavar is tempted by what he craves most in life--but at what cost? And I haven't even mentioned the otherworldly power that the sexy Sagara and the bloody redcap dwarf Grave Mungo must soon face! Yep, it's action aplenty...and you can join the fun next week on August 20th!

CROSSGEN MEDIA UPDATE!

Publishers Weekly, P.O.P. Times And More Cover CG's Multiple Projects!

As CrossGen creators were busy meeting fans at Wizard World: Chicago, many media sources were equally busy spotlighting our multiple projects. While placing orders, retailers should consider the following coverage: Publishers Weekly (July 21st) reviewed SIGIL Vol. 4: HOSTILE PLANET, stating that the monthly sci-fi series "takes conventional space adventure and supersizes it...fans who like big, well-drawn pictures of space hardware rushing into battle will love this."

Booklist (August 2003) turned the spotlight on THE PATH TRAVELER Vol. 1: CRISIS OF FAITH, comparing the ongoing samurai series to "a Clint Eastwood western--moody, epic and iconoclastic--with characters, heroes and villains alike, mostly victims of circumstance and their code of honor."

The School Library Journal (August 2003) praised SCION Vol. 5: THE FAR KINGDOM, saying that "the importance of the events of the story make this a necessary purchase."

BPM Culture (September 2003), the glossy magazine covering "the electronic lifestyle", gave RUSE Vol. 2: THE SILENT PARTNER a thumbs up: "A welcome change of pace from comic book superheroes. Like all good mystery stories, careful readers may even be able to crack the case before our heroes do. Jolly good fun."

Issue #843 of Comic Shop News features a cover story on EL CAZADOR #1, delivering a four-page art preview to readers curious about the upcoming nautical adventure. CSN's Cliff Biggers writes: "First, fantasy and science fiction...then philosophical action-adventure...after that, horror-adventure and historical barbarian-heroic drama...CrossGen has gradually expanded its offerings in a number of different directions--and in September, they're setting sail with a new series that ventures into yet another dramatic genre: pirates!"

The latest issue of Comics International praises sleeper series ROUTE 666, stating: "With lots of foreboding ambience and whimsical characters thanks to Tony Bedard's sharp writing and Karl Moline's creepy pencils, this comic is spine-chillingly spooky."

After attending the 2003 Gen Con, game designer James Mishler reported the following In the pages of Comics & Games Retailer (September 2003): "Another trading-card game that caught my fancy was the CROSSGEN COLLECTIBLE CARD GAME from Fast Forward Entertainment. Designed by Dragonball Z game designer Jim Ward, this looks to be a real winner. The game system captures the feel of the CrossGen Universe, and allows for infinite combinations of the various settings, while leaving plenty of room for a player to play a deck based on his own favorite title. The play of the game is simple and easy to grasp, but the broad and deep strategies available with the individual cards really makes the game shine, and will keep even the most hardened Magic addict busy looking for combos and strategies. And, of course, it will have the excellent art from CrossGen, and plenty of cross-sales possibilities with the d20 CROSSGEN ROLE-PLAYING GAME (also from Fast Forward) and CrossGen comic book titles."

Speaking of games, Inquest Gamer (September 2003) contains a mail-in offer for an exclusive "Ring of Blades" Boon from the Indy HeroClix line. Offering the rare figure through a pre-addressed envelope bagged with this issue, the gaming mag states, "Indy HeroClix has arrived and along with it all the coolest heroes from rich worlds of independent comics. And no world is richer or more detailed than CrossGen's."

Finally, the August 2003 P.O.P. Times--the "Official News Publication of the In-Store Marketing Institute"--features a full-page article on our recent Travelers Display Unit. Reporter Craig A. Shutt writes: "CrossGen Entertainment is introducing a new comic book format to American audiences through bookstores and direct market comic book stores. To gain attention, the publisher is using an unusually shaped corrugated floorstand to serve different needs in both the book and comic markets."

From graphic novels to collectible games to the way in which we market our projects, CrossGen's expanding initiatives continue to garner attention. As always, we greatly appreciate the support and coverage as we continue to dream up new ways to spread the enjoyment of comic books throughout the world.

CROSSGEN SIGNS WITH ENDEAVOR

Top Hollywood Agency Rounds Out Team Of A-List Entertainment Business Professionals

CrossGen Entertainment, one of the world's leading publishers of comics and graphic novels, has been signed by Endeavor, widely considered one of the leading agencies in the entertainment industry, for representation in the world of film, television and video games.

The pact adds Endeavor to CrossGen's Hollywood "A-Team," which includes Branded Entertainment's president Michael E. Uslan and VP F.J. DeSanto, executive producer of the Batman film franchise, and entertainment counsel, attorney Nancy Newhouse-Porter. Uslan and Porter will continue their work in ushering CrossGen's properties into other mediums, with Endeavor providing a powerhouse punch of talent and connections that will complete the task of moving CrossGen more firmly into the mass consumer entertainment industry.

Endeavor co-founders Rick Rosen and Ariel Emanuel will be handling CrossGen's client relationship, along with a team of Endeavor agents from the worlds of film, television and video games.

"CrossGen has some of the most exciting intellectual property in the business today," said the Endeavor partner in a joint statement. "With titles like Sojourn and Way of the Rat, CrossGen has become a leader in the comic book industry. We're thrilled to be working with them as they expand into television, film and video games."

Mark Alessi, CEO of CrossGen Entertainment, was gratified by Endeavor's enthusiasm for CrossGen's comics.

"As we move our stories and characters into other mediums, the focus for us still has to remain the creation of great comics," Alessi said. "Endeavor's people understand that, and their response to our material shows that every day we work with them. Their people are comics fans and movie fans, and they are committed to helping us bring our stories to life in ways that make sense. They get it, and we're proud to be with them."

About The Endeavor Agency

Endeavor is an integrated talent and literary agency that represents some of the most prolific writers, producers, directors and actors worldwide. By placing service and client needs above all, Endeavor has become one of the leading agencies in the entertainment industry.

Endeavor is widely considered one of the top talent agencies in the world. They count Ben Affleck, Drew Barrymore, Matt Damon, Vin Diesel, Michael Douglas, Diane Lane, Edward Norton, Adam Sandler and Mark Wahlberg among their talent clients and Martin Scorsese, Aaron Sorkin and John Woo among their distinguished writers and directors. Endeavor has 18 returning shows in the prime time television line-up and 13 new shows debuting in the fall or at midseason. Endeavor clients run nearly 40% of network television shows and work on 80% of television real estate. The agency's television packages include "The West Wing," "Alias," "That '70s Show," "Without a Trace," "The Gilmore Girls" and "WWE Smackdown."

SOJOURN #25: A GREAT CREATIVE TEAM, STORY & PRICE!

Join The Journey For Only $1.00!

When we read Ian Edginton's plot for SOJOURN #25--the first issue by the fantasy series' new writer--we knew this standalone chapter represented a great opportunity to introduce new readers to our most acclaimed title...and the critics agree!

Randy Lander, of TheFourthRail.com's "Snap Judgments" writes: "SOJOURN #25 is without a doubt the best jumping-on point you're likely to find...Not only is it cheap (a buck), not only does it feature the start of the new writer, but the story covers some fertile ground, exploring what happened to Mordath before he was a world-conquering despot and in so doing hits upon the important history of lead protagonist Arwyn and lead antagonist Bohr. It also features a fantastic action sequence with the usual lush, spectacular artwork by Greg Land and company, and overall serves to highlight the best things about SOJOURN for new and old readers alike."

Don MacPherson of the same website's "Critiques On Infinite Earths" echoes those sentiments, stating: "Edginton explores an important concept in this, his first issue, and, appropriately, a key jumping-on point for the series. The writer points out that nobody considers himself or herself evil. Motivations vary, but self-perception is usually that one is doing what s/he believes is right. By taking this approach, Edginton brings depth to not one, but two of the title's chief antagonists, and in the process offers up what is easily the strongest issue of SOJOURN I've had the pleasure to read."

One look at the following never-before-seen pages by penciler Greg Land (voted "Favorite Penciler" in Comics Buyer's Guide Fan Awards), inker Jay Leisten and colorist Justin Ponsor (named "Best Interior Colorist" by Wizard) and you'll see that the art more than matches the strength of Edginton's writing:

Captured by soldiers serving the malevolent Mordath, Arwyn the archer must turn to her hated enemy, the fearsome troll warrior Bohr! Surrounded and outnumbered, the former foes will have to fight together...or die together! This is it: your chance to jump onboard one of the industry's best-looking titles...for a very nice price! So join the journey on August 13th for only $1.00!

You can read more about SOJOURN and this new-reader-friendly issue here: www.newsarama.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=2856&highlight=Sojourn+25  

Here:
www.brokenfrontier.com/columns/guidinglines/guidinglines.htm 

Here:
www.silverbulletcomicbooks.com/reviews/105994747551092.htm 

Here:
www.thefourthrail.com/reviews/critiques/081103/sojourn25.shtml 

And here:
www.thefourthrail.com/reviews/snapjudgments/081103/sojourn25.shtml

THE WAR: WHAT IS IT GOOD FOR? PAY OFFS, SOLVED MYSTERIES & NEW SERIES!

CrossGen Mega-Story Reaches Its Crescendo in 2004!

The drums are beating, and THE WAR--the biggest event in the history of the CrossGen Universe--is coming!

Penciled by legendary superstar George Pérez, THE WAR represents the culmination of four years' of storylines, hundreds of issues, and thousands of hours of creative work. Hitting nearly four years to the day from when CROSSGEN CHRONICLES #1 reached stands, THE WAR will deliver the crescendo that the company's creators have been building toward since CrossGen started publishing.

Rocking CrossGen's titles in the Spring of 2004, THE WAR will see the heroes of the CGU colliding with the denizens of the twisted Negation Universe in all-out combat. Questions will be answered, mysteries will be solved, and massive changes will be wrought. Many current stories running throughout CrossGen's titles will reach their peaks, and some titles--as readers know them today--will be no more.

"We've got a rare chance with this project, and I'm looking forward to it tremendously," stated THE PATH writer Ron Marz. "We're going to pay off the storyline we've been building toward with an event that really will change the CrossGen Universe forever. I know a lot of other cosmos-spanning stories have been similarly billed, but this one is the real deal. The big difference is we're doing this for story-driven reasons with lasting ramifications. Characters will die, entire worlds will be destroyed. And that's only part one of the plan."

Chuck Dixon, writer of EL CAZADOR, CRUX, SIGIL, and WAY OF THE RAT, said, "This is the big event that CrossGen fans--as well as we creators--have been waiting for. But it's also a Big Event in terms of story and talent and spectacle. It will be our most important publication so far...as well as a kick-butt action epic!"

"It's going to be exactly what we've been heading for since our first issues," explained MERIDIAN, THE FIRST, and SOLUS writer Barbara Kesel. "And it's also the last thing that CrossGen fans will expect!"

Tony Bedard, writer of ROUTE 666, MYSTIC, and NEGATION, added, "This event is something I've been gearing up for ever since we launched NEGATION. It's been a hoot creating the ultimate villains for the ultimate showdown, and now--after three years of build-up--we're going to deliver a helluva payoff!"

While it will both evolve the CrossGen Universe and also usher in a new era of creation, THE WAR will not only deliver destruction, but will also set the stage for new growth.

"The freedom to tell these kinds of fundamentally universe-altering epics is one of the main reasons I came to CrossGen," stated Bedard. "THE WAR was a pleasure to set up, will be a thrill to read, and will yield exciting new launches that will continue the evolution of the best line of adventure comics in the business!"

"What comes after THE WAR is going to be even more exciting, and make the CrossGen Universe more enticing not only for our loyal readers, but also for someone who's never picked up a single issue of our books," added Marz. "Things really won't be the same after this...but I guarantee that they're going to be even better!"

As THE WAR draws closer, readers and retailers can learn more details about this line-altering event at crossgen.com.

SCION #39: A VALIANT TRIBUTE! Ron Marz & Jim Cheung Salute The Great Hal Foster!

SCION #39 thunders into comics shops on September 3rd...but this issue is way to cool to keep under wraps until then! Writer Ron Marz and penciler Jim Cheung--together with inker Mark Morales and colorist Jason Keith--set out to salute the legendary Hal Foster and his classic creation Prince Valiant...and boy, did they knock this one out of the park!

Designed as an homage to the Sunday newspaper strips (which ran from 1937 to 1971), this stand-alone issue gives a nod not only to Foster's lush artwork, but also to his innovative use of detailed images paired with blocks of texts. Marz was always a huge fan of the Valiant strip, and decided that he and Cheung's final issue of SCION would be the perfect place to deliver this personal homage.

So did the creative team succeed? Heck, just feast your eyes on these pages and see for yourself! And if you like what you see, you can pick it up the actual comic on September 3rd!

CG SNEAK PEEK: THE PATH #17! Satiate Your Samurai Craving Here!

You hunger for exotic locales. You thirst for intense drama and explosive action. You really, really dig samurai swordfights. If that sounds like you, then you gotta check out THE PATH, my friend! These reviewers did...and look how happy they are now!

"Fans of 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon' or Akira Kurosawa's samurai epics will not want to miss this book." -Wizard

"A surprisingly engaging story of legend and lost culture...There's a mystical tension that comes over the book, and a creepy cinematic flair as well." -Critiques On Infinite Earths of TheFourthRail.com

"From Ron Marz's keep-you-coming-back-for-more stories to Matthew Smith's beautiful and moody art, THE PATH is on the path to greatness!" -TheComicFanatic.com

"A perfect synthesis between words and pictures." -BrokenFrontier.com

"THE PATH is simply stellar. Drawing on a massive tradition of Japanese storytelling and an equally rich cinematic tradition that culminates in Akira Kurosawa, Marz and Co. have captured the distilled essence of samurai action and presented it in comic book form." -NeedCoffee.com

"What we have here is a heroic epic worthy of Frank Miller in his heyday." -Comics International

"Ron Marz is creating something magical here...THE PATH is one of the most emotionally powerful comics I have ever read." -411Mania.com

"An epic of major proportions!" -SilverBulletComicBooks.com

"An intriguing read...Obo-san, the monk who is the lead, is particularly interesting, torn apart when his gods betray him and he loses not only his belief system but the political system he has believed in, not to mention all of his friends." -Snap Judgments of TheFourthRail.com

"With each new title, CrossGen continues to sharpen and refine their line...with THE PATH, they've got another winner on their hands." -iComics.com

"Combining superhero sensibilities with a 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon' aesthetic results in a compelling, at times beautiful work that will have no trouble finding readership." -Publishers Weekly

Wow! Those reviews are stronger than a shot of chilled sake! Your next chance to discover the glory that is THE PATH comes with issue #17--delivered by the creative team of writer Ron Marz, penciler Matthew Smith, inker Mark Pennington, and colorist Michael Atiyeh--in just one week!

They say that the enemy of your enemy is your friend...and now the former monk known as Obo-san and the deadly beauty Aiko must test that adage--with their lives! When our intrepid duo ventures deep into the heart of treacherous territory, what will the Nogawa clan take: Obo-san's offer...or his head? Find out on September 13th!

CROSSGEN CRUISES INTO CHICAGO!

Looking forward to greeting more fans from across the country, the CrossGen crew is jetting into the Windy City for this weekend's 2003 Wizard World:
Chicago! 

Poised to deliver free autographs and sketches are:
Scott Beatty (RUSE)
Tony Bedard (NEGATION, MYSTIC, ROUTE 666)
Andrea Di Vito (BRATH)
Chuck Dixon (EL CAZADOR, CRUX, SIGIL, WAY OF THE RAT)
Butch Guice (RUSE)
Jeff Johnson (WAY OF THE RAT)
Barbara Kesel (MERIDIAN, THE FIRST, SOLUS)
Greg Land (SOJOURN)
Aaron Lopresti (MYSTIC)
Karl Moline (ROUTE 666)
Paul Pelletier (NEGATION)
Brandon Peterson (CHIMERA)
Brian Pulido (LADY DEATH)
Robert Rodi (THE CROSSOVERS)
Bart Sears (THE FIRST, THE PATH)
Andy Smith (THE FIRST)

Ready to answer questions and catch up with retailers and readers are:
Mark Alessi 
Mike Beattie
Mayra Bermudez
James Breitbeil
Shirley Burdett
Paula Hale
Will Harbottle
Jennifer Hernandez
Tammy Jackson
Chris Oarr
Tony Panaccio
Michelle Pugliese
John Smith
Courtland Whited
Beth Widera

Visitors to the CrossGen booth will also be able to pick up the Code 6 and CGE submission guides, look through convention-exclusive previews of upcoming titles, check out the much buzzed-about DVDs, and feast their eyes on the amazing Chimera CG animated feature. In addition, while supplies last, you can also pick up a copy of the WAY OF THE RAT: FREE COMIC BOOK DAY EDITION. And if your lucky number is called, you could even win cool swag in our daily raffle!
And don't forget to stop by our pulse-pounding panels and ask us questions! Whether you want to get the lowdown on THE WAR or just want to find out how to break into the crazy comics biz, creators will be ready to field your questions at the following panels:

FRIDAY, AUGUST 8th

11:00 -12:00 Wizard School: Submitting Samples
Writer/editor Barbara Kesel fully explains--and reveals the secrets of--how you should submit writing samples to the pros!

2:00 -3:00 The McLauchlin Group
Brian Pulido and a roundtable of the comic book industry's most electrifying pros discuss the issues that have everyone talking!

5:00 - 6:00 CrossGen 2003: Monkeys, Pirates, and You!
What's next for Arwyn, Po Po and the rest of CrossGen's colorful characters? Be there as the power-packed panel including Chuck Dixon, Tony Bedard, Barbara Kesel, Robert Rodi and Brian Pulido reveal what's next for your favorite CrossGen titles!


SATURDAY, AUGUST 9th

11:00 - 12:00 CrossGen: Tomorrow's Technology...Today!
How will comics jump to DVDs? Find out...and witness a few more surprises that will help CrossGen shepherd comics into the future!

12:30 -1:30 Wizard School: The Pros and Cons of a Comic Book Business Brian Pulido, the founder of Chaos! and writer of LADY DEATH, is an industry pioneer--and now he's going to share his hard-earned knowledge with you! Be there as one of comics' coolest and most enthusiastic creators takes the stage and answers your questions!


SUNDAY, AUGUST 10th

11:00 -12:00 CrossGen Creators: How I Broke Into The Biz!
How can you transform from comics fan to comics pro? There's no magic button...but there is plenty of good advice! Get a leg up on the wannabes and find out how Brian Pulido, Butch Guice, Scott Beatty and Chuck Dixon got their first big break!

12:30 -1:30 Wizard School: Writing for Time Periods
How can you capture a specific age in your comic book? Scott Beatty, writer of the Victorian-era series RUSE, gives you all the tips you need to send your readers back in time!

2:00 -3:00 Wizard School: 2-Dimensional Acting
How can you use facial expressions and body language to make your characters come to life on the comic book page? Aaron Lopresti, penciler of the magical MYSTIC, delivers the info you need to bring your heroes and villains to life!

And last but certainly not least, you can fuel up for a busy Con day and meet your fellow readers at the CrossGen Fan Breakfast! Kicking off at 9:00am on Saturday, August 9th, this is your chance to hang out with CrossGen creators and readers...and enjoy a swell buffet-style breakfast at the same time! Good food and good company is yours at the Garden Terrace Restaurant in the Hyatt Regency Hotel (conveniently located right to the left of the Convention Center)! Organized by fans for fans, it's a great opportunity to start and cement long-lasing friendships with fellow readers and creators!
Looking forward to seeing you all in Chicago!

UPDATED CROSSGEN SCHEDULE!

Keeping our loyal readers and retailing partners informed of what's coming out when, here's an updated CrossGen publishing schedule.

While, as previously announced, we originally planned on releasing two weeks' worth of titles on August 13th, we learned today that the necessary reservation time on Quebecor's printing press was simply not available. After consulting with retailers, we've now decided--to avoid an unnecessary drain on retailer and reader's wallets--not to arrange an additional double-week printing schedule.

Here's what's coming your way from August 13th through September 3rd...

On Sale August 13th:
BRATH #6: A major new character debuts as we enter the gladiator's arena! By Chuck Dixon & Alcatena!
MARK OF CHARON #5: The revelations continue as the universe-shaking miniseries reaches it's chaotic conclusion! By Tony Bedard & Sal Velluto!
MERIDIAN #38: You'll never guess who's chronicling Sephie's crusade! By Barbara Kesel & Luke Ross!
THE PATH #17: When Obo-san and Aiko venture deep into the heart of treacherous territory, will the Nogawa clan take our heroes' offer...or their heads? By Ron Marz & Matthew Smith!
RUSE #22: Is Simon's home a haunted mansion? By Scott Beatty & Butch Guice!
SOJOURN #25: New writer Ian Edginton jumps onboard for the special $1.00 issue! By Edginton & Greg Land!

On Sale August 20th:
DRAGON'S LAIR #1: Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Dragon's Lair, the classic arcade game makes its comic book debut! By Andy Mangels, & Fabio Laguna!
THE FIRST #34: Solusandra reveals the secret of the First! By Barbara Kesel & Andy Smith!
JOHN CARPENTER'S SNAKE PLISSKEN CHRONICLES #2: Double-crossed and left for dead, Snake strikes back! By William O'Neill & Tone Rodriguez!
MYSTIC #39: In the culmination of a yearlong story, Giselle must prove all she's learned! By Tony Bedard & Aaron Lopresti!
R.A. SALVATORE'S DEMONWARS #4: The barbarian ranger Andacanavar is tempted by what he wants most in life-but at what cost? By R.A. Salvatore, Scott Ciencin & Greg Tocchini!
WAY OF THE RAT #16: Another cast member falls to the blade of an assassin...but who? By Chuck Dixon & Jeff Johnson!

On Sale August 27th:
BRIAN PULIDO'S LADY DEATH #7: The battle for Novgrod is over...but a new adventure begins! By Brian Pulido & Ivan Reis!
MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE: ICONS OF EVIL - TRAPJAW #1: How did a once-proud warrior become the mechanized minion known as Trapjaw? By Robert Kirkman & Carlo Pagulayan!
NEGATION #21: Deep within the bowels of a Negation prison, the fugitives take on their greatest challenge...and pay the price! By Tony Bedard & Paul Pelletier!
SIGIL #39: It's the Saurians vs. the Negation...it won't be pretty! By Chuck Dixon & Ron Wagner!
SILKEN GHOST #4: The true nature of the Laughing Ghost is revealed! By Chuck Dixon & Will Rosado!
SOJOURN #26: Two weeks after the $1.00 issue, Mordath grabs the spotlight! By Ian Edginton & Lewis LaRosa!

On Sale September 3rd:
THE CROSSOVERS #8: Romantic havoc spreads across Crosstown, driving apart Carter and Calista! By Robert Rodi & Joe Staton!
CRUX #29: With his city facing annihilation, Tug makes a decision that will rock Atlantis to its core! By Chuck Dixon & Sergio Cariello!
ROUTE 666 #15: Featuring the guest-art of John McCrea (Hitman)-and the debut of a major new character! By Tony Bedard & McCrea!
SCION #39: A special standalone issue in the tradition of Prince Valiant's Sunday comics! By Ron Marz & Jim Cheung!
SOLUS #6: George Perez returns as Solusandra shakes up the First! By Barbara Kesel & Perez!
SPACE ACE #1: Don Bluth's classic sci-fi arcade game makes its comic book debut! By Robert Kirkman & Paulo Burges!

As always, we appreciate your continued patience and support.

And if you're traveling to Wizard World: Chicago, we'll see you there!

SOJOURN'S (FAMOUS) FACES IN THE PAPERS!

Extra! Extra! Read All About Arwyn...And The Men That Bring Her To Life!

The brightly-garbed characters that fill the pages of comic books often grab the media's attention...but what about the talents behind the heroes? Reporter Sam Eifling dug a little deeper in the July 31st edition of Florida Today by swinging the spotlight on the creators that bring Arwyn to life in the fantasy series SOJOURN.

In an article that features quotes from penciler Greg Land, as well as photos of the creative team, Eifling writes "Land, inker Jay Leisten and colorist Justin Ponsor will be at Famous Faces & Funnies in Melbourne, FL at 4 p.m. Saturday, signing comics. Readers of Comic's Buyers Guide recently voted Land the second-best penciler in the business, and Wizard magazine named Ponsor the best colorist."

While profiling the entire company -- covering everything from CrossGen's educational program, to upcoming DVDs, to employee benefits -- Eifling writes "Defying conventions on how a comics publisher should operate, Florida-based CrossGen Comics has become a big player in a short time."

The entire article, titled "ARTISTS DRAW FANS, RAVES" can be read at: http://www.floridatoday.com/!NEWSROOM/peoplestoryA7628A.htm

AUG. 13TH COUNTDOWN: RUSE #22!

Is Simon Archard's Home A Haunted Mansion?

It's no mystery: Readers love a good RUSE! The game is afoot on August 13th, when two week's worth of CrossGen titles -- including RUSE #22 -- hit comic book specialty stores. This issue -- by the creative team of writer Scott Beatty, penciler Butch Guice, inker Mike Perkins and colorist Laura Martin -- sees someone (or something) going bump in the night! Yes, it seems that the sprawling headquarters that detectives Simon Archard and Emma Bishop call home is haunted!

Who or what is visiting the cathedral's sleeping residents?

Why did Comics International say "The new writer of RUSE (Scott Beatty) has carried on the find blend of storytelling and witty characterization that made this comic so unique"?

Why does Publishers Weekly call RUSE "A highly entertaining mix of mystery and humor"?

All the questions will be answered on August 13th in RUSE #22!

Here's a message straight from Mr. Radical Sabbatical himself, Mark Alessi.

"While the titles were completed by their creative teams and ready to be printed, CrossGen's July 30th and August 6th titles will be delayed until August 13th. Please understand that it was my decision alone for internal CrossGen reasons -- outside of last week's corrupted files -- that impacted the ability of these books to be delivered on time. I hope our readers and retailing partners will accept my apology for this delay.

The good news is that I can guarantee that the following titles will go on sale August 13th:
Brath #6
DemonWars: Eye for an Eye #4
Dragon's Lair #1
The First #34
John Carpenter's Snake Plissken Chronicles #2
Mark of Charon #5
Meridian #38
Mystic #39
The Path #17
Ruse #22
Sojourn #25
Way of the Rat #16

An updated release schedule for our graphic novels will be forthcoming.

Again, please accept my apology. As always, your continued support is greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,
Mark Alessi"

"RADICAL SABBATICAL" PROFILES MARK ALESSI!

Nationally Distributed Newspaper Column Spotlights The Founder Of CrossGen!

Celebrating the risk-takers who follow their dreams, Fine Living Network's "Radical Sabbatical" newspaper column -- spawned by the popular TV program of the same name -- has spotlighted CrossGen CEO and Publisher Mark Alessi. Under the headline "Ex-Tech Exec Now Turning Out Different Kind Of Comic Book," reporter Bill Spring writes: "After building a multimillion-dollar tech company, Mark Alessi decided to build an entire universe, one that includes noble heroes and dastardly villains. His hope is that his company, CrossGen Comics, will make kids love reading again."

"Radical Sabbatical" is distributed by the Scripps Howard News Service, which serves 18 of the top 20 markets in the United States and has a combined daily circulation of a client list that exceeds 22 million.

The entire article -- which covers CrossGen's comic books, graphic novels, web site, DVDs, movies and educational program -- can be read at: www.thesunlink.com/shns/story.cfm?pk=RADICALSABBATICAL-07-29-03&cat=K

BRATH CHARITY AUCTION!

A message from colorist Rob Schwager:

"One of our BRATH fans, Allen, (otherwise known as 'Arla' on our message boards) has a niece that has Rett Syndrome. You can go to
http://www.rettsyndrome.org/  for more information about this neurological disorder. Her name is Kathy Falk. You can go here to see her picture and
bio: http://www.rettsyndrome.org/gallery/toc-e-f.htm 

Anyway, Allen is planning on holding an auction in his local comic book store of his small town in October. to try to raise money for the Rett Syndrome Association to try to find a cure for this disease that primarily strikes females.

Allen mentioned something about it on one of the comic message boards I hit, BrokenFrontier.com. I discussed it with the BRATH creative crew and decided
that it would be cool to donate a big, one-of-a-kind BRATH prize package to this auction. 

We also figured that if we could auction the prizes worldwide, via Ebay, instead of just in his small town, we might be able to raise more money to help the Rett Association. Here's the auction:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2185742864&indexURL=0&photoDisplayType=2#ebayphotohosting 

Now, this isn't a CrossGen sponsored auction or event or anything. We did this on our own because Allen is a great fan, we wanted to help--even if it is in just a small way--and we felt that this was a worthy cause for us to stand behind.

Allen sent us a videotape of his niece on the local news and it broke my heart. Might be because I have a little 5 month old daughter, but I felt convicted to do something. We all did. 

So, if you would, even if you aren't interested in bidding on Ebay, please pass the word on to friends and others who might be into BRATH, or Chuck's writing, or who might just want to donate to a worthy cause and help out some folks, while in return getting some great artwork and prizes.

Thanks everybody.
Rob"


Here's a portion of the Ebay listing describing what the BRATH creative team is auctioning off:

BRATH CHARITY AUCTION

You are bidding on an extremely rare, once in a lifetime BRATH prize package, straight from the creators of monthly comic book series BRATH from CrossGen Comics. To get a collection of BRATH related articles like this, you would have to go to a lot of conventions or know the art teams personally. This is a special one-of-a-kind auction.

**ALL proceeds from this auction are going directly to charity.**

One of our loyal fans has a niece with Rett syndrome. The creative team are making a donation with the proceeds raised by this auction to the Rett Syndrome Association in his niece's name.

Note: This is an auction set up by the BRATH creative team only, not CrossGen Comics as a company.

In this BRATH prize package one lucky bidder will receive:

- The cover to BRATH #2 original artwork. This beautiful piece of original art was penciled by Andrea Di Vito and inked by Brad Vancata. Artwork features the series character Taniella. Standard 11"x17" CrossGen comic art board. This is the original artwork created for this issue. Suitable for framing.

- A stunning one of a kind, custom BRATH poster specifically printed for this auction featuring artwork from the upper scene on pages 4-5 of issue #4. The poster print measures 40 1/2" x 25". An awesome sight to see!

- A limited edition art print of the cover to BRATH issue #9. There were only 100 of these produced. Signed and numbered. Very rare. It's 12x18" and suitable for framing.

- A signed and numbered, 32 page BRATH sketchbook. Only 300 of these sketchbooks were produced.

- BRATH "convention style" sketches by writer Chuck Dixon, penciler Andrea Di Vito, inker Roland Paris, colorist Rob Schwager, and letterer Dave Lanphear. These are done on Crossgen trading card art board. Approx: 4 1/2 x6 1/2"

- One copy of each BRATH comic released to date. Prequel and issues 1-5.

- 3 BRATH promotional bookmarks. These bookmarks were produced to promote Teen Read Week.

- 3 BRATH promotional postcards. These postcards were produced as give-aways at conventions.

- 5 3" round BRATH vinyl stickers. Ideal for indoor and outdoor use.

All items sold as a set only.

All items in Mint Condition.

All items signed by various members of the BRATH creative team, including: writer Chuck Dixon, penciler Andrea Di Vito, inkers Brad Vancata, John Dell and Roland Paris, colorist Rob Schwager and letterer Dave Lanphear. You can learn more about Kathy's neurological disorder at:
http://www.rettsyndrome.org/

PLOOG RETURNS AS DEMATTEIS INTRODUCES ABADAZAD!

Dedicated to creating all-ages entertainment for a worldwide audience, CrossGen Entertainment is proud to announce that--after spending years in Hollywood as a designer and storyboard artist--legendary artist Mike Ploog (The Monster of Frankenstein, The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus, Ghost Rider, Man-Thing, Werewolf by Night) will return to comic books to pencil ABADAZAD, his first monthly title in over 10 years. Created and written by fan-favorite writer J.M. DeMatteis (Formerly Known As The Justice League, Moonshadow), ABADAZAD is an all-new coming-of-age fantasy tale launching in December 2003 through CrossGen's Code 6 imprint. In the tradition of The Wizard of Oz and The Chronicles of Narnia, ABADAZAD reveals the story of Kate, a teenaged girl riddled with guilt over the mysterious disappearance of her younger brother five years ago. Now, given a glimmer of hope, Kate must travel far from home and undergo dangerous and terrifying trials in order to rescue the person she holds most dear.

"ABADAZAD is a dream project that I've nurtured for years," said DeMatties. "It's a chance to tell a rich, character-driven fantasy tale in the tradition of L. Frank Baum, J.M. Barrie, C.S. Lewis, Dr. Seuss, Madeleine L'Engle and so many other great writers whose work has touched and inspired me--and stuffed my children's heads full of wonderful dreams. A story that can nurture an eight year old imagination-and be accessible and entertaining to adults, as well."

"At a time when so many comics seem to be about limiting the audience, about creating an 'adult' and 'edgy' image, I am delighted to find that CrossGen understands the need for material accessible to a broad audience," continued DeMatteis. "I'm also happy to see that CrossGen is wildly enthusiastic about finding new and innovative ways to reach that audience."

"At times funny, touching and exciting, ABADAZAD will appeal both to adults and younger readers who enjoy contemporary fantasy," said Code 6 Managing Editor Ian Feller. "J.M. has long dreamed of writing this story, and it's clearly showing in the work he's submitted. As J.M. wrote in his original pitch, this is the type of story that he can read with his eight-year-old daughter. As for Mike Ploog, he's coming back to comics to illustrate ABADAZAD--he's that enthusiastic about it. And any time a legend the likes of Mike Ploog is excited about a project, you have to stand up and take notice."

ABADAZAD, a monthly comic book series published by CrossGen's Code 6 imprint, will debut in December 2003 and will be available for ordering in the CrossGen section of the October issue of Diamond Comics Distributors Previews catalog.

CROSSGEN MEDIA BLITZ!

L.A. Times, Variety & More Cover CrossGen!

As the CrossGen creators greeted fans in San Diego at the 2003 Comic-Con International, the company also generated an avalanche of press coverage through multiple media outlets. From the L.A. Times to the Panama City News Herald, journalists across America swung the spotlight on CrossGen.

The July 17th edition of the L.A. Times featured a two-page article on Mark Alessi entitled "Comics' Unlikely Hero". The article, which commanded a large section of the front page of the Business section, featured photos of Alessi and SOLUS inker Rick Magyar. After visiting the CrossGen Studios, Times staff writer Tomas S. Mulligan reported: "Alessi has managed one of the industry's most successful start-ups in years, and his ideas are getting respect and a bit of imitation...Less than two years into the alliance (with movie producer Michael Uslan), an eye blink by Hollywood's clock, CrossGen has 11 movie and TV projects in the pipeline with some big names: studios such as DreamWorks SKG and Castle Rock Entertainment; filmmakers including Chuck Russell ("The Mask") and Robert Zemeckis ("Forrest Gump"); and writers like Bob Gale ("Back to the Future") and Mike France ("Cliffhanger"). And not one of the projects, as everybody connected with CrossGen repeats incessantly, involves a spandex-clad superhero." In addition to showing art from RUSE, SIGIL and SOJOURN, the article also featured descriptions of WAY OF THE RAT, ROUTE 666, BRATH and MERIDIAN. The entire article can be read at: http://www.calendarlive.com/movies/cl-fi-comics17jul17.story

In other Hollywood news, Variety spotlighted the upcoming "Way of the Rat" feature film in an article on the Top 100 hottest movies in development.

Saluting movers and shakers such as Stephen Spielberg and J.K. Rowling, the September 2003 issue of Cinescape Magazine lists "The Super Power 100" (the 100 most powerful people in genre entertainment). Rocketing to spot #48--landing between The Simpsons' Matt Groening and Stan "The Man" Lee--is CrossGen's own Mark Alessi. Lifting him from last year's rank of #89, Cinescape says: "Entrepreneur Alessi built a comic book publisher from scratch and instantly won the hearts of readers everywhere. With slick production values, power-house talent and a growing list of optioned series, CrossGen is here to stay."

Celebrating the trend that "over the past few years, stories by and for women have invaded comic shops and bookstores," the July 20th issue of the Panama City News Herald examined CrossGen's efforts to expand comic books' female readership. Reporter S. Brady Calhoun quoted writer Barbara Kesel as saying, "Girls are not now just reading comics. Girls used to read comics. There used to be great readership in both genders. Boys may want to see things blow up, and girls may want to know how it affected people in the vicinity, but everybody likes excitement and everybody likes character." Mentioning both LADY DEATH and MERIDIAN, Brady also quoted yours truly as stating "Who said you have to be a man to be a hero? Half of our titles star female leads and the other half star strong women in the cast." Finally, the July 25th and August 1st issues of Comics Buyer's Guide salute several CrossGen creators for scoring high in their 2003 CBG Fan Awards. First, Chuck Dixon (WAY OF THE RAT, SIGIL, CRUX), Barbara Kesel (MERIDIAN, THE FIRST, SOLUS) and Tony Bedard (ROUTE 666, MYSTIC, NEGATION) were voted by readers into the Top 20 in the "Favorite Writer" category. Likewise, George Pérez (SOLUS), Greg Land (SOJOURN), Butch Guice (RUSE) and Andrea Di Vito (BRATH) were all voted into the Top 20 in the "Favorite Penciler" category--with Pérez and Land awarded the #1 and #2 spots, respectively. In addition, the two issues of CBG also included a cover story on the upcoming pirate series EL CAZADOR as well as "A-" reviews to WAY OF THE RAT Vol. 1 and MERIDIAN Vol. 4.

For links to additional online media coverage generated by CrossGen, readers are encouraged to visit "CG Buzz" at crossgen.com.

Quick update: the article that Variety ran spotlighting "Way Of The Rat" was actually the Top 10 hottest movies in development, not the Top 100.

Po Po is pleased!

CHIMERA ANIMATED FEATURE UNLEASHED AT THE 2003 SAN DIEGO COMIC-CON!

CG Animated Short Film To Be Shown At The CrossGen Booth!

Through a special arrangement with the Digital Animation And Visual Effects School (a.k.a. the DAVE School), 2003 San Diego Comic-Con attendees will be able to view a six-minute CG animated feature based on CrossGen's sci-fi comic book series CHIMERA. Created by 2003 graduates from the DAVE School, the exclusive film will be shown during the "CrossGen: Tomorrow's Technology...Today!" panel (on Friday, July 18th, at 5:00pm in room 1AB) and on plasma monitors in the massive CrossGen booth.

Since opening in 2000 at the Universal Studios Orlando, the DAVE School offers a complete training center in the art and science of computer animation for television, film and additional mediums. Participating in hands-on demo projects, DAVE students gain real-world experience as they learn to interact with and deliver solutions for world-renowned creative clients.

After meeting DAVE School owner Jeff Schultz at the 2002 MegaCon, CrossGen VP of Special Projects Brandon Peterson--who penciled, inked, colored and (with Ron Marz) co-wrote CHIMERA--suggested that the acclaimed mini-series would offer the students a challenging and rewarding opportunity. After the project was secured, Peterson then worked extensively with the students on the film's production.

"CHIMERA was a very personal project for me, so seeing the characters come alive was thrilling," stated Peterson. "The DAVE School did an excellent job, and everyone who's seen the trailer has told me how well they captured the look, feel and story of the mini-series."

CHIMERA, which will be collected into a graphic novel in November 2003, tells the story of Sara, a supposedly normal woman hunted through the galaxy by the insidious Chimeran Empire. As readers soon discover, Sara's unique genetic structure not only makes her a target, but it also makes her a living weapon. The animated feature shows the resulting explosive battle on the frozen ice-mining planet of Severan as Sara fights a battalion of the Empire's armored forces.

CINESCAPE DEBUTS THE 1ST CROSSGEN COMIC BOOK INSERT AT THE 2003 SAN DIEGO COMIC-CON!

Popular Genre Entertainment Magazine To Give Away 3,000 Copies At The CrossGen Booth!

Choosing the comic book industry's largest convention to launch its partnership with CrossGen Entertainment, Cinescape Magazine will debut its first CrossGen Comic Book Insert at San Diego's 2003 Comic-Con International. Every issue of Cinescape #72, officially going on sale August 3rd, will include a complete copy of JOHN CARPENTER'S SNAKE PLISSKEN CHRONICLES #1, the debut issue of the monthly series by Hurricane Entertainment and CrossGen's CGE imprint. Featuring a September cover date, 3,000 advance copies of the magazine - which will also include an interview with SNAKE writer William O'Neil and artist Tone Rodriguez - will be handed out to fans who visit the CrossGen booth during this year's Comic-Con.

"While the issue will still be about two weeks from hitting newsstands, what better place to launch the Cinescape/CrossGen program then at the Comic-Con International in San Diego?" said Cinescape Magazine Executive Editor Eric Moro. "We hope this new initiative will help win over readers who might be interested in the medium, but wouldn't normally go into a comic book shop. And with mainstream icon Snake Plissken in our corner, we can't go wrong!"

"What's the best way to reach potential new readers? Give them a free copy of your comic!" stated CrossGen Director of Marketing & Communications Bill Rosemann. "We're proud to unite with top-notch partners such as Cinescape, and Snake is the perfect character to grab the attention of mass-market readers. As for who will get the next insert, Po Po (the talking monkey from WAY OF THE RAT) just jumped into my office, demanding his rightful place in the spotlight!"

Issues #1 and #2 of JOHN CARPENTER'S SNAKE PLISSKEN CHRONICLES, a monthly comic book series produced by Hurricane Entertainment through CrossGen's CGE imprint, can currently be ordered from Diamond Comics Distributors.

CROSSGEN SAN DIEGO PANELS: 2 UPDATES!

New Panel For Snake, New Date For Rob Zombie!

Two updates to pass on concerning CrossGen's panels at the 2003 San Diego Comic-Con.

First, Hurricane Entertainment, MGM Home Entertainment and Ghost In The Shell producer Production I. G. will unite for a revealing panel on the future of the Snake Plissken franchise! The creative talents behind the CGE comic book JOHN CARPENTER'S SNAKE PLISSKEN CHRONICLES and the upcoming anime and DVD will speak about bringing everybody's favorite anti-hero back into the eyes of pop culture. Panelists will include Hurricane editor in chief Jan Utstein-O'Neill, writer William O'Neill, artist Tone Rodriguez, anime screenwriters Corey Mitchel and William Wilson, international operations manager with Production I.G. Maki Terashima-Furuta, and MGM Home Entertainment manager Amy Zwagerman. As a bonus, the first 50 people attending the panel will receive a free 2003 con exclusive variant cover of JOHN CARPENTER'S SNAKE PLISSKEN CHRONICLES #1! In addition, MGM -- in a special cross-promotion with Hurricane Entertainment -- will supply a surprise give-away to everyone that attends the panel or visits the Hurricane Booth! The panel will be held on Saturday, July 19th, from 10:30-11:30am in room 1AB.

Also, generating higher than anticipated media interest, the Rob Zombie panel has moved from Thursday to Friday. The rock and roll icon will now take the stage on Friday, July 18th, from noon until 1:00pm in room 6CDEF.

Attached is the updated CrossGen panel schedule for the 2003 Comic-Con.

NEGATION: COMICS' MOST UNPREDICTABLE BOOK?

Bedard & Pelletier Keep Everyone Guessing In Issue #20!

Writer Tony Bedard, penciler Paul Pelletier, inker Dave Meikis and colorist James Rochelle are bad, bad men. And judging by the reviews they generate for NEGATION, readers think that's good! Here's what a growing number of voices are saying about this zigzagging sci-fi thrill-ride:

"Whoa! CrossGen gets hardcore! Great setting, premise and action!" - FanBoyRadio.com

"Fast-paced sci-fi action that explodes off the page...better than Star Trek, as blisteringly paced as a Star Wars film, with characterization and situations that would put most movies to shame!" -411Mania.com

"If I've said it once, I've said it a hundred times: Month in and month out, NEGATION is one of the best comics!" -The Ragged Edge

"An unadulterated entertaining force...that bristles with energy and excitement!" -BrokenFrontier.com

"Unpredictable...anything might happen from issue to issue!" - ComicBookResources.com

"High-octane storytelling...If you haven't picked up on this book yet, do so now. You've been missing one of the best reads in the last two and a half years." -Collected Edition

Yes, every issue Bedard & Co. make readers say, "Oh...they didn't just do that...did they?" Maybe that's why readers placed NEGATION on the "Favorite Stories" list in Comics Buyer's Guide 2003 Fan Awards. You can judge for yourself on July 16th when Obregon Kaine's ragtag band of freedom fighters encounter yet another wicked surprise during their battle to escape a twisted universe ruled by a mad god. Here's the first five pages of issue #20. I would have sent out pages six and seven, but I'm afraid what Komptin does next is not for the faint of heart!

TALES OF THE REALM #1: SIX-PAGE PREVIEW!

Fantasy Collides With Reality In The New MVCreations & CrossGen Mini-Series!

What's the best dragon to ride to work? Is sharing a dressing room next to a sludge troll fun?

What if everything we knew about myth and fantasy were real? Readers will find out on September 3rd when MVCreations -- through CrossGen's CGE imprint -- presents TALES OF THE REALM, a six-issue mini-series that fuses the elements of sword and sorcery with the familiar hustle and bustle of modern life.

Set in Hollywood, this light-hearted adventure follows the lives of three characters that star in the hit TV show Tales of the Realm. Now in its 7th season, Realm is one of the top rated TV shows in all the land, but sadly, the actors get paid squat and toil in horrible working conditions. To make matters worse, a troll is suing the studio because he thinks Realm is portraying his race in a negative light! Those anti-trollite jerks! How will our trio solve this dead-end dilemma... and make the jump to big-time movies?

"From the get go, we tried to do something that was different than what you normally see in comics," said MVCreations Marketing Director Jonboy Meyers. "We set TALES OF THE REALM in a world that has everything our world today has around us, but with a fantasy twist. Orcs are Hollywood agents, ogres are blue-collar workers, and dragons... well, dragons are airplanes."

"Wanting to create a series that's unique -- and above all else, fun for any reader -- we came up with a concept that puts a unique twist on the fantasy story," stated MVCreations President Val Staples. "When it came time to bring the series to life, we wanted to make sure it captured all the comedy and tragedy that this kind of book would contain... well, mostly comedy."

"Writer Robert Kirkman was the obvious choice to deliver the humor," continued Staples. "Robert has an incredible grasp of comedic timing and knows how to write believable characters that fit into this environment. Next to his Invincible stuff, it's his best writing to date! Penciling the series is MVCreations Art Director Matt Tyree. Matt brings a very refreshing style to the series creates the perfect tone for the story."

"TALES OF THE REALM is an absolute blast to work on!" exclaimed Kirkman. "The concept by Val and Matt is absolutely brilliant, and to be quite honest... I wish I had come up with it; there literally is nothing out there today that is quite like it. There's just so much potential with this stuff to go into so many different directions. Honestly, if anyone has half as much fun reading this comic as I do writing it, it's going to be bigger than Watchmen... that's right... bigger than Watchmen! Readers have to be crazy not to pick up this book, and even that's not a valid excuse!"

"I couldn't imagine working on anything but TALES OF THE REALM," added Tyree. "Val and I developed the idea back in '99 to be a fun, creative story. It's my baby and all time favorite pet project! With the addition of Robert as the writer, the story can't get much better. Every script I read makes me laugh out loud. And Mike Garcia's colors are just amazing! I'm enjoying this book immensely and can't wait to see where the story takes us! If you want to be entertained and laugh your ass off, this is definitely the book for you!"

TALES OF THE REALM #1 goes on sale September 3rd, and can be ordered in the CrossGen section of the July Diamond Previews catalog. Just watch out for the orcs, trolls, ogres and dragons!

CG SNEAK PEEK: LADY DEATH #6!

Wizard's "Book of the Month" Explodes As Three Forces Collide!

Charging out of the gate with a sold-out first issue, BRIAN PULIDO'S LADY DEATH surprised readers with a story that renowned retailer and "Savage Critic" Brian Hibbs called "That rare relaunch that improved the initial concept." When Wizard crowned it "Book of the Month," nay-sayers began to give the new dark fantasy series a second look. And now that everyone from Comics International (who called it "A great read if you're looking for something new") to TheComicFanatic.com (who dubbed it "One of the best revamps in years") has joined the applause, LADY DEATH has picked up steam and is heading into the crazed conclusion to its first story-arc!

In one corner you have the noble knight Wolfram von Bach and the lethal Lady Death (half-human, half-Eldritch and hated by both races). In another you have the savage Scarlet Riders, masked warriors intent upon bringing down both Wolf and Lady Death. And in a third corner you have the evil Eldritch lord Thorm, leading a troop of his blood-thirsty brothers on a hunt for humans. Throw them all into the village of Novgrod (which just happens to be Lady Death's home town), mix well, and you have a recipe... for disaster!

So if you're curious to see what the buzz is about -- or if you're just in the mood for some epic sword-swinging action -- then look for BRIAN PULIDO'S LADY DEATH #6 (courtesy of Pulido, penciler Ivan Reis, inker Marc Campos and colorist Chris Blythe) on July 16th!

CROSSGEN CRASHES COMIC-CON 2003!

Greetings, Comic Book Lovers!

Since we're located way down here in sunny Florida, CrossGen sees Comic-Con International: San Diego 2003 as our chance to meet new friends and hang out with all of our loyal fans from the rest of the world. And now, with the excitement set to kick off in just a week, we're happy to announce our full lineup of panels and activities!

The panels represent your chance to fire questions at your favorite CrossGen creators--like Greg Land, Chuck Dixon, Butch Guice, Ron Marz, Jeff Johnson, Ian Edginton, Brian Pulido, R.A. Salvatore and George Pérez--so be sure to think up plenty of good ones!

And did I mention the Rob Zombie panel? Read on, my friends!

THURSDAY, JULY 17

12:00 - 1:00 ROB ZOMBIE! 
Room 6CDEF
That's right, world-famous rocker Rob Zombie is here! So you better be there
too to hear all about his all-new comic book! The madness begins in October,
but you can meet Rob and walk away with a free poster right now!

2:00 - 3:00 CROSSGEN: MONKEYS, PIRATES & YOU! 
Room 3
What's next for Arwyn, Lady Death and the rest of CrossGen's characters?
Find out as a power-packed panel including Chuck Dixon (Way of the Rat,
Sigil, Crux and El Cazador), Ron Marz (The Path), Tony Bedard (Route 666,
Mystic and Negation), Barbara Kesel (Solus, The First and Meridian), Ian
Edginton (Sojourn and Scion), Robert Rodi (The Crossovers), Brian Pulido
(Lady Death) and R.A. Salvatore (DemonWars) reveal their plans and answer
your questions!


5:30 - 6:30 R.A. SALVATORE SPEAKS!
Room 16AB
He's the New York Times best-selling author that unleashed DemonWars. Be
there as fantasy writer R.A. Salvatore takes the stage to discuss how he
creates fierce fantasy, action-packed comic books...and entire worlds!


FRIDAY, JULY 18

5:00 - 6:00 CROSSGEN: TOMORROW'S TECHNOLOGY...TODAY!
Room 1AB
You've heard the rumors and read the announcements. Now see the future for
yourself! What's up with comics on DVDs? Find out...and witness a few more
surprises that will help CrossGen shepherd comics into the next century!



SATURDAY, JULY 19

2:30 - 3:30 MARK ALESSI: THE INTERACTIVE PRESS CONFERENCE! 
Room 1AB
He's one of the most controversial personalities in comics. And now it's
your chance to ask CrossGen founder Mark Alessi any question you want! Watch
as Wizard's Richard Ho, The Pulse's Heidi MacDonald,
ComicBookResources.com's Augie de Blieck Jr., and Comics Buyer's Guide's
Nathan Melby quiz Mark on any topic they want...and then step up to the
microphone and fire off a question of your own!


SUNDAY, JULY 20

12:00 - 1:00 HOW I BROKE INTO THE COMICS BIZ!
Room 9
How can you break into the comics industry? There's no magic equation...but
there is plenty of good advice! Get a leg up on the wannabes and find out
how Greg Land, Ron Marz, Jeff Johnson, Butch Guice, Chuck Dixon, Brian
Pulido and George Pérez got their first big break!

And don't forget to stop by the crazy CrossGen booth and say "Hi"! While
there you can:
* Get free autographs and character sketches!
* Pick up a copy of the Free Comic Book Day edition of Way of the Rat #1!
* Take home free promo posters!
* Enter the daily raffle to win cool swag!
* Watch the mind-blowing, five-minute Chimera CG animated feature!

And last, but certainly not least, you can meet the following cool creators:
Scott Beatty (Ruse)
Tony Bedard (Route 666, Mystic, Negation)
Sergio Cariello (Crux)
Jim Cheung (Scion)
Vincenzo Cucca (Meridian)
Frank D'Armata (Crux)
Andrea Di Vito (Brath)
Chuck Dixon (El Cazador, Crux, Sigil, Way of the Rat)
Dale Eaglesham (Sigil)
Ian Edginton (Sojourn, Scion)
Steve Epting (El Cazador)
Fabrizio Fiorintino (Lady Death)
Butch Guice (Ruse)
Jeff Johnson (Way of the Rat)
Barbara Kesel (Meridian, The First, Solus)
Greg Land (Sojourn)
Aaron Lopresti (Mystic)
Ron Marz (Sojourn, Scion, The Path)
Karl Moline (Route 666)
Paul Pelletier (Negation)
George Pérez (Solus) 
Brandon Peterson (Chimera)
Luke Ross (Scion)
R.A. Salvatore (DemonWars)
Bart Sears (art director, former artist on The First and The Path)
Andy Smith (The First)
Matthew Smith (The Path)

We'll see you in San Diego!

SNEAK PEEK: WAY OF THE RAT #15!

Jeff Johnson's Art Is So Good It's Scary!

Ask anyone who reads WAY OF THE RAT, and they'll tell you it's one funny book. How can it not be when it stars a talking monkey? But in the same breath, they might also tell you it's one of the best looking books on the stands. And how can it not be when penciler Jeff Johnson inker Tom Ryder and colorist Chris Garcia are working hand-in-hand to make it -- as AintItCoolNews.com says -- "one of the best action movies on paper"?

Judge for yourself on July 9th when WAY OF THE RAT #15 leaps into your local comic shop. As you'll see in the following five preview pages, the citizens of Zhumar are learning that some spirits refuse to keep quiet! Especially when writer Chuck Dixon is giving them a voice!

CROSSGEN FANS GATHER IN SAN DIEGO!

CG Fans Organize Fan Gathering At 2003 Comic-Con!

Conventions are great places to meet creators...and they're also great places to meet fellow fans! That's why CrossGen readers have created the CrossGen Fan Gathering. Organized by fans for fans, this is your chance to meet each other -- and CrossGen creators -- at the 2003 San Diego Comic-Con International.

Here's all the info you'll need to join this fun event:

The CrossGen Fan Gathering
Date: Friday, June 18, 2003
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Place: SDCC Panel Room 19
Hosts: CrossGen Council (Phoenix and Southern California Chapters)

The CrossGen Fan Gathering is an event organized to help fans connect during the convention experience. Fans from all over the world who have found the CrossGen message boards have developed true friendships through a common love of comics. Early on it became clear that fans had an interest in meeting one another in person. This realization resulted in the formation of the CrossGen Council fan group, which has several active chapters across the country and around the globe. Since then, the CrossGen Council has tried to bring CGE fans together at conventions through fan events like the CGE Fan Breakfast or CGC Fan Gatherings. The San Diego Comic-Con CrossGen Fan Gathering will give all CGE fans in attendance an opportunity to learn about the CrossGen Council and the CrossGen Council Fan Awards, as well as the chance to meet with other CrossGen fans, CrossGen creative staff and other great people. Most important of all, this event offers fans the chance to make connections with their fellow fans. So if you're attending the 2003 San Diego Comic-Con, stop by the meeting -- there will be fun, prizes and memories to last a lifetime!

CROSSGEN COLORING CREW SWAPS SERIES!

Martin, Bell, D'Armata and Rochelle Pick New Palettes!

Ask anyone in the industry and they'll admit that CrossGen's colorists are among the best in the biz. But you don't become--and stay--the best by resting on your laurels. That's why, looking to stretch their wings after long runs on their respective titles, the CrossGen Coloring Crew has decided to tackle new challenges by swapping series!

Starting with the issue #21 in August, Eisner award-winner Laura Martin will blast into NEGATION, bringing her talented touch to the wild inhabitants of the Sci-Fi thrill-ride. Laura's handpicked successor on RUSE will be Frank D'Armata, who--fresh off CRUX--will continue the distinct look of the Victorian mystery series. Nick Bell will veer off ROUTE 666 to sail the seven seas as he helps launch September's all-new pirate series EL CAZADOR. Finally, to bring the movements full circle, James Rochelle will rocket from NEGATION into Bell's spot on the acclaimed horror title ROUTE 666.

"RUSE is tough to let go," admitted Martin. "The creative team was one of the best and coolest group of guys I've ever had the privilege of working with. But there comes a point when a colorist needs a change, to embrace something completely different."

"From Victorian pastels to Negation-Space psychedelics-that's about as drastic a change as I can get," continued Martin. "I've been a big fan of the book since the Prequel, so I'm itching to dust off the Sci-Fi section of my paint box and dive in. James Rochelle set up a heck of a precedent, though--it's a little intimidating!"

"But who would I trust to take care of Simon and Emma? I chose Frank D'Armata," revealed Martin. "Frank's one of the most diverse, talented, and underrated colorists at CrossGen, and he's earned his shot at a book that I love. I can't wait to see Frank bring his unique, velvety richness to the world of Partington."

"Every creative person is different," explained CrossGen Art Director Bart Sears. "Some like to grab a particular book, and run with it for years--the material never gets old to them, and they keep finding ways to keep their art fresh and exciting. Others yearn for a new challenge--after working on one project for a couple of years, they feel they have done everything they can with the work, and feel like their creative progress has come to a standstill...they need a change. We try to work with every creator here, not only to keep the individual as happy as possible, but also to keep his or her creativity at the highest possible level. Every artist at CrossGen has improved since they started here, and--amazingly, at least to me--month after month, issue after issue, they just keep getting better."

THE PATH & NEGATION: 2 NEW STORY-ARCS START IN SEPTEMBER!

Where Can You Begin The Adventure? Right Here!

You hear good things about a comic...but you just don't know where to start reading. You don't want to stumble in on the middle of a story-arc... but you don't want to wait too long to check out a book that's building buzz. What's a reader to do?

We hear ya, friends!

That's why I'm here to say that both THE PATH #19 and NEGATION #22 both kick off new story-arcs in September. On top of that, each issue features a "Previously..." page on the inside front cover that will tell you all you need to know to join the fun.

So just what are these two series?

THE PATH is the dark samurai adventure starring Obo-san, a former monk torn between duty and destiny. To save his nation, he must defy his own nation's mad Emperor...but can his ragtag forces possibly withstand the might of the imperial army? Wizard says "fans of 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon' or Akira Kurosawa's samurai epics will not want to miss this book." Publishers Weekly calls it "lively but brooding, full of fire, shadows and journeys across misty landscapes where the Earth's bones poke through rags of snow." You can experience it for yourself in September when writer Ron Marz, penciler Matthew Smith, inker Mark Pennington and colorist Michael Atiyeh open a new chapter in the monthly series. In an attempt to flush out a traitor, Obo-san challenges the enigmatic Storyteller about his true nature -- leading to a devastating confrontation with the awesome power of the artifact known only as the Weapon of Heaven!

NEGATION offers a heart-shocking balance to THE PATH's brooding drama. Called "a rip roarin' roller coaster of a read" by Comics International and "the most involving and exciting hard-core adventure title being published today" by 411Mania.com, NEGATION is the Sci-Fi thriller starring Obregon Kaine, an "ordinary" man fighting for his freedom from the grip of a twisted universe's mad god. In September, guest-penciler Dave Ross (Batman: Gotham Knights) joins writer Tony Bedard and inker Tom Simmons to begin a new story-arc. In the aftermath of a costly rescue attempt, the scrappy squad that Kaine fought so hard to pull together is now exploding apart. This is the book that the CrossGen Bullpen rushes to read first each month...now it's your turn to find out why people call this the most unexpected comic going today!

Both NEGATION #22 and THE PATH #19 can be ordered right now from the July issue of Previews catalog. If you're ready to see what so many comic critics are raving about, ask your retailer to order your copies today!

RETAILER ALERT: CROSSGEN IN THE MEDIA!

Sojourn, Ruse, Mystic, Way of the Rat, Negation and Route 666 In The Spotlight!

Retailers should check their inventory and be prepared for curious customers who've read recent coverage of numerous CrossGen titles in the following internationally-distributed magazines:

The June 9th issue of Publishers Weekly reviews MYSTIC Vol. 4: OUT ALL NIGHT (ISBN 1-931484-46-5, $15.95). PW says:

"Past installments of the story dealt with . . . Giselle reluctantly began using her abilities, not certain whether she wanted to be responsible for anything more than having fun. Early in this volume, she appears to have decided to become a full-time party girl. That behavior, however, turns out to be due to the subconscious, destructive influence of an old adversary, the Demon Queen Animora. This successful exorcism raises the question of what Giselle is to do with her free, unencumbered life now. She makes at least a tentative decision to master her powers. Although there are still many detours on her new path, it's intriguing to watch her moving in a different direction as Bedard and his talented art team take on weightier challenges."

The summer 2003 issue of Rain Taxi, the free book magazine distributed to independent booksellers nationwide, features a strong review of RUSE Vol. 2: THE SILENT PARTNER (ISBN 1-931484-48-1, $15.95). They write:

"RUSE is certainly more sophisticated than most superhero books, and offers a consistently entertaining read. The crisply-written banter between Simon and Emma propels the comic from panel to panel through some fairly tricky plots. A large part of the fun of RUSE is the sleight of hand with which familiar tropes emerge only to develop in unexpected directions. The second RUSE collection, THE SILENT PARTNER, leads off with a thorough rearrangement of the typical Middle-European-village-menaced-by-vampires scenario. There's also a brief bit concerning an assassination attempt by agents of the League of Aggrieved Manservants--the unstated joke being that Archard has solved one too many cases in which 'the butler did it.' [I]ts concluding three chapters . . . are full of character development, back story revelations, and climactic showdowns--all of which deepen the world of the characters and prime the reader to pick up the next RUSE collection."

The Northeast Massachusetts Regional Library System offers up three short reviews of MERIDIAN Vol. 1: FLYING SOLO (ISBN 1-931484-03-1, $19.95), MERIDIAN Vol. 2: GOING TO GROUND (ISBN 1-931484-09-0, $19.95) and MERIDIAN Vol. 3: TAKING TO SKIES (ISBN 1-931484-21-X, $15.95). They write:

"(MERIDIAN) is a great series. When you read this volume you can't wait to read the next to see what happens. The art work is great. It is very colorful. If you like graphic novels then this is the series for you."

Wizard #145 selects both THE PATH and SOJOURN for their "Picks" section, saying:

"Fans of 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon' or Akira Kurosawa's samurai epics will not want to miss THE PATH!" and "The latest menace to crop up in the pages of SOJOURN will keep readers up late at night!"

Comic Shop News #836 chooses SOJOURN #25 for it's latest "Comics You Should Be Reading" section, raving:

"Malevolent larger-than-life villains, intrepid heroines, roguish heroes, grand quests--if 'Star Wars' were grand fantasy rather than SF, it would be SOJOURN!"

Comics International #160 calls NEGATION "a rip-roarin' roller coaster of a read," ROUTE 666 "stylistically suspenseful and full of horrific humor!" and WAY OF THE RAT "colorful, exciting and possibly one of the few genuine 'feel good' comics around at the moment."

Finally, in addition to interviewing yours truly, the June issue of manga/anime magazine NewType USA gives ROUTE 666 a thumbs-up review saying "writer Tony Bedard and artist Karl Moline have found the perfect mix of graphic horror and black humor."

Who Said Only Men Can Be Heroes?

STAR ON THE RISE: GREG TOCCHINI!

DemonWars #3 Showcases "Eye-Popping" Art!

Whether you're into fantasy or not -- or have read zero or all of R.A. Salvatore's novels -- comic book lovers will want to take a look at R.A. SALVATORE'S DEMONWARS: EYE FOR AN EYE #3. Yes, there's butt-kickin' barbarians. Yes, there's heart-breaking harem girls who can also break bones. Yes, there's cold-blooded assassins and demonic djinns. But there's also some awesome art! Penciler Greg Tocchini is a superstar in the making, folks, and inker Andrew Pepoy and colorist Tad Ehrlich sure make his stuff shine!

In fact, instead of listening to me yack about how sweet this issue is, why don't we turn the stage over to TheFourthRail.com's Randy Lander? Take it away, Randy: "Fantasy is not my favorite genre, to be honest...However, there are aspects of fantasy that I enjoy, and writer Scott Ciencin has somehow landed his story on most of them. Big epic armies massing at the gates of mysterious fortresses? Check. Exotic locales? Check. Fancy swordwork? Check. A plot that features a little bit of intrigue but doesn't lose itself in deeply complex politics? Check...Throw in some eye-popping artwork by CrossGen find Greg Tocchini, inks by veteran Andrew Pepoy and the always-impressive CrossGen colors and you've got a fine fantasy read...(and) one of the rare examples of a successful transition of a property from one medium to another."

Cool characters, Arabian spice and a star on the rise. DEMONWARS #3 has it all... and you can have it on July 2nd!

ARWYN IN YOUR POCKET!
Sojourn Traveler Vol. 1 Hits!

Calling SOJOURN "A Book You Should Be Reading," Comic Shop News raves, "Malevolent larger-than-life villains, intrepid heroines, roguish heroes, grand quests -- if Star Wars were fantasy rather than SF, it would be SOJOURN!" You can join the journey this week when writer Ron Marz, penciler Greg Land, inker Drew Geraci and colorist Caesar Rodriguez unleash SOJOURN TRAVELER Vol. 1: FROM THE ASHES! Greg Land was recently crowned one of the "Top 10 Artists" by Wizard magazine... find out why on June 25th -- for only $9.95 -- when you pick up our latest portable & affordable collection!

COVER YOURSELF IN CROSSGEN!

International Outfitters Creates CrossGen Clothes!

With summer upon us, it's time to break out your favorite T-shirts...and CrossGen has you covered! International Outfitters Direct, one of the largest suppliers of brand wear in the world, will now be creating all CrossGen Apparel for fans of Arwyn, Simon Archard and the rest of CrossGen's heroic characters.

"International Outfitters have taken our previously existing catalog of apparel, resourced every item - right down to the colors and sizes we previously offered - and will even be adding new and updated items to the mix," stated CrossGen Senior VP of Business Development Tony Panaccio. "International Outfitters offers name-brand clothing that can be matched with their new 'Laser Embroidery' decoration process, which makes it easy to match the items of your choice with your favorite CrossGen logos."

"International Outfitters is working with us daily to update and upgrade everything we offer on the site, and they are working to lower prices, as well," added Panaccio. "Customer satisfaction is their first task, and they have really stepped up to the plate to ensure that they represent CrossGen well. In addition, they are also building more roads between CrossGen and mainstream retail customers with a variety of new products we hope to unveil over the coming year."

From golf shirts to hats to backpacks, CrossGen Apparel can now be ordered via the CrossGen website at: http://crossgen.icobb.com/ and also through a link on the main page at crossgen.com.

CROSSGEN INTRODUCES PEP: MAKES ENTIRE LINE EXCHANGEABLE!

Beginning July 1st, CrossGen is introducing the Product Exchange Program (PEP), which, in essence, makes our entire line exchangeable.

PEP is simple. Each month we will designate a title or titles that have demonstrated strong sell-through and possess great upside potential. Retailers can exchange any two CrossGen comics per one PEP comic. All you need to do is mail in the covers of the comics you're exchanging and tell us which PEP comics you want. It couldn't be easier!

"As CrossGen moves forward into our third year of publishing, we want to strengthen our dedication to direct market retailers, who have supported us from the very beginning. You guys took a chance on us, and this is our way of saying thanks." -CrossGen President Mark Alessi

"We've set out to annihilate retailer risk by making our entire line exchangeable. No limits. No complicated rules. Just an ongoing commitment to stand behind the entire CrossGen line." -CrossGen VP of Sales Chris Oarr

PEP will be administered on CrossGen's behalf by Bulldog Collectibles. Retailers may exchange any regular-priced CrossGen comic for the monthly PEP comic on a 2-for-1 basis. The program works through stripped-cover returns, meaning that participating retailers need simply mail in covers to participate. Retailers pay no shipping on the PEP comics they receive in exchange.

Each month we'll announce new PEP comics. PEP exchanges will occur while supplies last, and retailers can roll over PEP credits until an attractive option pops up in later months. We'll be announcing the new PEP comics every month through ICv2.com, Comics & Games Retailer, Bulldog Collectibles' website and via our new monthly retailer newsletter, which will launch in August.

The PEP comics for July are:

LADY DEATH #2 LADY DEATH #3 LADY DEATH #4 LADY DEATH #5

SOJOURN #21 SOJOURN #22 SOJOURN #23 SOJOURN #24

Recently named "Book of the Month" by Wizard and called "that rare relaunch that improved on the original concept" by prominent retailer Brian Hibbs, LADY DEATH is on a roll. As the series' first story arc barrels towards a climax with July's issue #6, we want to make it easy for retailers to grow their readership.

Likewise, SOJOURN begins a new era with issue #25, the much-publicized $1.00 comic that hits the stands on July 30. Featuring the debut of new writer Ian Edginton (X-Force), the start of a new story-arc, and plenty of media support, SOJOURN #25 is sure to attract new readers. With such a big jump-on event, interest is also sure to run high on recent back issues.

To participate, retailers should send their stripped covers to Bulldog Collectibles, requesting any number of the designated PEP issues of LADY DEATH and/or SOJOURN. PEP comics will be shipped accordingly while supplies last. Any retailer whose order is unfilled will receive a statement of their PEP credits, which can be applied to future months' selections.

Please mail covers to: Bulldog Collectibles
2028 Branding Iron Lane
Chino Valley, AZ 86323

For more information, please call Bulldog at (877) BUY-COMIC or visit their website at www.bulldogcollectibles.com
As always, we thank you for your continued support and look forward to helping you grow your business through PEP comics!

BLUTH BLASTS OFF!

Space Ace: Defender of the Universe #1 Preview!

Twenty years ago, master artist Don Bluth (An American Tail) rocketed arcades into orbit by blending feature-quality animation with revolutionary computer game play. Now, on August 20th, everyone who loves the Bluth art style is invited once again to a universe of lasers, star ships and astro-babes! Completing the DRAGON'S LAIR one-two punch, MVCreations and CrossGen proudly present SPACE ACE: DEFENDER OF THE UNIVERSE #1!

Based on the hit SF-based arcade game, the six-issue mini-series heralds the return of cosmic hero Space Ace, galactic hottie Kimmy and their newly adopted -- and age regressed -- bundle of joy Baby Borf! Picking up right where the video game left off, our cosmic couple is looking forward to some quality time... but that's hard to do when the effects of the Infanto Ray keep de-aging Ace into the pint-sized Dexter! And to top that off, they're being hunted by a dastardly villain who may hold the cure to Ace's chaotic condition!

"Working with Don Bluth has truly been a dream come true," stated MVCreations group editor Leanne Shaw. "It's thrilling to collaborate with someone who's had such an impact both on the way we see animation and also on how animation itself is now created. Don's films practically reinvigorated animation in the early '80s and '90s, and his films and video games pioneered the limits of technology within the animation process."

"It's a tremendous honor to be working with Don and the entire Bluth Group," continued Shaw. "They've been such a key role in developing the story as well as hand-picking the entire art teams for both titles. Both SPACE ACE and DRAGON'S LAIR are absolutely gorgeous series that look more like animated movies than comic books."

"Writer Robert Kirkman (Invincible) brings a quirky and witty side to the entire adventure, incorporating everything we love about space operas and seamlessly blending it with humor and unbelievable comedic timing," said MVCreations president Val Staples. "Robert is joined by penciler Paulo Borges, who is a newcomer to American audiences. Paulo is a former Disney artist, whose work has appeared in Europe and South America; he jumped ship to work with Don Bluth on the project of a lifetime! Meanwhile, colorists Pat Duke and Grafiksismik have pulled out all the stops to create an eye-popping color palette that will just blow you away! This will definitely be a book that will stand out from the crowd!"

SPACE ACE: DEFENDER OF THE UNIVERSE #1 can now be ordered in the CrossGen section of the June Diamond Previews catalog. So strap in for light speed adventure!

BRATH #5: BARBARIAN BATTLE FEST!

Will Betrayal Bring Down The Hammer Of Ure?

An evil empire marches across the world -- but one warrior defies them! Outnumbered and out armed, can war chief Brath Mac Garen possibly lead his barbarian clan to victory against an endless enemy? Especially if one of his own plots against him? Writer Chuck Dixon, penciler Andrea Di Vito, inker John Dell and colorist Rob Schwager unleash hell on June 25th in the pages of BRATH #5!

RETAILER ALERT: SNAKE BITES THE MEDIA!

Entertainment Weekly Spotlights The New Series From Hurricane And CrossGen!

JOHN CARPENTER'S SNAKE PLISSKEN CHRONICLES #1, the first issue of the bi-monthly ongoing series published by Hurricane Entertainment and CrossGen Entertainment, has Entertainment Weekly and the rest of the media buzzing! While reviewing the below list of coverage, retailers should make sure they have sufficient stock on hand to satisfy curious readers.

Entertainment Industry Press:

* Entertainment Weekly: review in this week's special double issue #716-717 (on stands for two weeks), page 166.
"Escape Form New York's anti-hero is back, giving new life to that recurring 'I thought you were dead' quip... writer William O'Neill and artist Tone Rodriguez show promise with a bit that has Snake paying one of those damn omnipresent Jersey tolls by tossing a grenade in the basket. (Can you blame him?)... Grade: B"

* Starlog: July issue #312, four-page feature article, pages 60-63.
"O'Neill and Rodriguez... didn't even have to break a sweat to capture the anti-social anti-hero."

* Weekly Variety: June issue, page A6, quarter page cover art shown.
"In development is an anime film, along with a comic book that will hit stands this month and a video game to be released in 2005."

* Washington Times: May 17th issue, page B2. "...a faithful reproduction of Snake throughout..."

* Atlantic City Press: June 5th issue, front page with art; front and full-page of Lifestyle section with photos of creators; page B-3 quarter-page photo and story.

Comic Book Industry Press:

* Wizard: July issue #142, pages 7, 18 and 111.
Chosen for - "HOT READS - 5 Books We Can't Wait to Pick Up!"

* Comics Buyer's Guide: June 20th issue, #1544, page 18.
"O'Neill's writing is taut and captures Snake's attitude perfectly...Grade: A"

* Comic Shop News: cover and full-page feature article.

Online Press:

* CHUD.com
"This is classic Plissken, and Rodriguez's detailed and gritty rendition of Snake perfectly compliments O'Neil's equally gritty characterization. A solid combination of enthusiastic writing and good artwork...Highly Recommended 3.5/5"

* ComicWorldNews.com
"Writer William O'Neill and artist Tone Rodriguez deliver a Snake Plissken tale that's as good as any movie! Grab the popcorn, kick back and enjoy this comic book!"

* TheFourthRail.com
"It succeeds at what it sets out to do, and that's to tell an exciting story full of attitude, and it does so with a sense of humor...Recommended 7/10"

* SilverBulletComicBooks.com
"...a dynamic Summer blockbuster comic book... Snake Plissken's misadventures continue and I couldn't be happier!"

Retailers and readers can look for additional coverage in Fangoria, Cinescape, GamePro, ComicBookResources.com, ComicsContinuum.com, Fanboyplanet.com, Newsarama.com and RevolutionSF.com.

JOHN CARPENTER'S SNAKE PLISSKEN CHRONICLES #1 is still available for order through Diamond Comic Distributors through the order codes APR032100 E, APR032099 E and APR032098 E. JOHN CARPENTER'S SNAKE PLISSKEN CHRONICLES #2 (order codes JUN032165 E and JUN032164 E), on sale August 6th, is available for order on page 282 in the June edition of Diamond's Previews catalog.

CROSSGEN SNEAK PEEK: RUSE #21!

Simon Archard...Murderer?!

Why is Simon Archard, Partington's #1 Son, now Public Enemy #1? Is the master detective in truth a cold-blooded killer? And if he isn't, can Emma Bishop solve the mystery before her jailed partner faces execution? Find out on June 25th when writer Scott Beatty, penciler Butch Guice, inker Michael Perkins and colorist Laura Martin present RUSE #21, the latest chapter in the series Comics International calls "consistently as good as League of Extraordinary Gentlemen"!

RETAILER ALERT: CROSSGEN IN THE MEDIA!

Publisher's Weekly, School Library Journal and Go-Girl.com Cover CrossGen!

Retailers should check their inventory and be prepared for curious customers who've read recent coverage in the following internationally-distributed magazines and web-sites:

* From the June 16th issue of Publisher's Weekly:

CRUX Vol. 3: STRANGERS IN ATLANTIS
"This title's strength, besides CrossGen's usual superior artwork, is its unpredictability... Writer (Chuck) Dixon tantalizes readers..."

THE PATH Vol. 1: CRISIS OF FAITH
"The action is fluid... The impressive art matches the threatening mood... The result is lively but brooding, full of fire, shadows and journeys across misty landscapes where the Earth's bones poke through rags of snow... Readers will want to open the book again and again just to look at the art."

* From the July issue of School Library Journal:

MERIDIAN Vol. 5: MINISTER OF CADADOR
"Sephie copes with the challenges of growing up as she discovers that all problems cannot be solved by using her powers... (while) mourning the loss of her first love. Beautiful, lush, colorful artwork complements the text."

THE PATH Vol. 1: CRISIS OF FAITH
"Combining superhero sensibilities with a Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon aesthetic results in a compelling, at times beautiful work that will have no trouble finding readership."

* From June's "The Buzz" section of Go-Girl.com:

"So, you still think only boys can kick butt? Wrong! CrossGen Entertainment proves that a girl superhero doesn't need some guy in a cape to come to the rescue. Its comics show girls in a whole new light -- as the beautiful and powerful heroines they truly are. Forget Spider-Man, and check out Arwyn from Sojourn. She's one awesome woman who's able to fight trolls while keeping keep her silky blonde mane intact. Or Sephie from Meridian who has magical powers beyond belief and still manages to look amazing whether she's tattered and torn or dressed to the nines. And look out Wolverine, Cassie from Route 666 has a sixth sense and fights werewolves and spirits -- and does so in style. She, like the others, shows girls how to face up to their fears and stand up for what they believe in. If you're looking for a heroine that not only beats the bad guys, but looks awesome doing it -- check these girls out. They know what it takes to be tough and be a lady. For more info on CrossGen Entertainment, visit www.crossgen.com.

RUSE VOL. 1: IT'S NO MYSTERY WHY THIS TRAVELER WILL BE A HIT!
Waid, Guice, Perkins and Martin Introduce The Detective!

Mark Waid certainly seems to be in the headlines lately, and if you're curious about his work at CrossGen, you may want to snag RUSE TRAVELER VOL. 1. On sale June 18th, this 192-page collection introduces the dynamic detecting duo of Simon Archard and Emma Bishop, the sensational sleuths that keep the cobblestone streets of Partington safe! If Victorian-era mystery is your cup of tea, then only $9.95 will deliver the story that Booklist called "a thoroughly enjoyable visual take on the detective genre" and that the Library Journal praised as "offbeat...(and) amusing...(with) fine writing aided by excellent and detailed artwork."

So join Waid, penciler Butch Guice, inker Mike Perkins and colorist Laura Martin for a puzzling good time...and another portable and affordable Traveler!

CrossGen September 2003 covers are now available at: www.crossgen.com/cgentertainment/data

Attached is the text listing of all CrossGen comic books and graphic novels on sale in September 2003.

This information is embargoed for public distribution until Wednesday, June 18th.

Full-color cover art will be available for downloading on Wednesday, June 18th, from the Fan, Retailer and Media sections at www.crossgen.com.

>>>
BRATH #8
Chuck Dixon (w), Andrea Di Vito (p),
Roland Paris (i), Rob Schwager (c)
At the feet of the Emperor, Brath receives the shock of his life! Meanwhile, when you see what the treacherous Mac Dools do in this issue, your blood will boil! "Beautiful…reminiscent of classic films such as Braveheart and Lord of the Rings." -Zentertainment.com
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 24 $2.95

CRUX #30
Chuck Dixon (w), Sergio Cariello (p),
Rob Hunter (i), Laura Villari (c)
Atlantis vs. the Negation - it's all-out war! The newly reinforced Atlanteans collide with the endless hordes of Negation amphibian monsters…and to the victor goes Earth itself!
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 17 $2.95

EL CAZADOR #1
Chuck Dixon (w), Steve Epting (p & i),
Nick Bell (c)
Beginning a wild epic of piracy and plunder! When a fiery Spanish donessa runs afoul of a villainous armada, she sets sail with vengeance in her heart - reborn as Captain Sin! Meet CrossGen's next major hero in a savage tale of the days when cannons roared, cutlasses clashed, and the seas were stained blood red! Be there as writer Chuck Dixon, artist Steve Epting and colorist Nick Bell unleash a wicked world of battles, brutality and Buccaneers! Featuring 32 pages of historically accurate action and adventure!
48 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 3 $2.95

THE FIRST #35
Barbara Kesel (w), Andy Smith (p),
Robin Riggs (i), Morry Hollowell (c)
From the pages of SOLUS, here comes the Hound! You've wondered about their true nature - and now the enigmatic Enson and Wyture battle a side of themselves that they can no longer control! Plus: Trenin the Hunter takes aim at the upstart Seahn!
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 3 $2.95

MERIDIAN #40
Barbara Kesel (w), Vincenzo Cucca (p),
Don Hillsman II (i), Sumi Pak (c)
Desert storm! En route to Sheristan, Sephie flies directly into a sandstorm…of a decidedly unnatural origin!
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 24 $2.95

MERIDIAN TRAVELER Vol. 3: TAKING THE SKIES
Barbara Kesel (w), Steve McNiven (p),
Tom Simmons (i), Morry Hollowell (c)
Can one girl change the fate of an entire planet? Sephie, still mastering her amazing powers, defies her scheming uncle Ilahn by taking to the skies with a small band of freedom fighters! A tragic event will mold them into a true army…but will it also end her innocence? Find out in the Traveler that reprints MERIDIAN #15 - #20!
160 pgs, full color, Traveler-sized graphic novel,
on sale Sept. 10 $9.95

MYSTIC #40
Tony Bedard (w), Paul Pelletier (p),
Roland Paris (i), Wil Quintana (c)
Featuring guest-art by NEGATION's Paul Pelletier! Giselle and her erstwhile ally travel to the Tantric Lands on the trail of the traitorous Vashua…but can she trust the mystery man leading the hunt?
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 3 $2.95

NEGATION #22
Tony Bedard (w), Dave Ross (p),
Tom Simmons (i), TBD (c)
Guest-penciler Dave Ross (Batman: Gotham Knights) kicks off a new story arc! In the aftermath of their costly rescue attempt, the squad that Obregon Kaine fought so hard to pull together is now coming apart at the seams!
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 10 $2.95

THE PATH #19
Ron Marz (w), Matthew Smith (p),
Mark Pennington (i), Michael Atiyeh (c)
Jump on as a new story begins! Obo-san attempts to flush out a traitor as he challenges the Storyteller about his true nature - leading to a devastating confrontation with the awesome power of the Weapon of Heaven!
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 24 $2.95

SCION #40
Ian Edginton (w), Luke Ross (p),
John Dell (i), Jason Keith (c)
Key Issue! Instead of fighting each other, can the Heron and Raven kingdoms fight side-by-side? They better…because the robotic empire of Tigris is on the attack! With the new creative team of Ian Edginton (Batman/Aliens II) and Luke Ross kicking off a new story arc, now is the perfect time to join the SCION saga!
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 17 $2.95

SCION Vol. 5: THE FAR KINGDOM
Ron Marz (w), Jim Cheung & Jim Fern (p),
Don Hillsman II (i), Jason Keith (c)
Prince Ethan has carved out an island home for the former slaves of his world…but can he protect it? Seeking an ally, Ethan and Ashleigh journey to the faraway land of Tigris. But will this strange realm choose to be friend or foe? Find out as we reprint SCION #28 - #33!
160 pgs, full color, trade paperback, on sale Sept. 3 $15.95

ROUTE 666 #16
Tony Bedard (w), Karl Moline (p),
Drew Geraci (i), Nick Bell (c)
In their nation's heartland, Cassie Starkweather and Sheriff Cisco seek sanctuary with an enclave of fundamentalist farmers - but the secret they harbor is a supernatural magnet to Cassie's powers of paranormal perception! "Wickedly funny and twisted!" -TheFourthRail.com
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 17 $2.95

RUSE #24
Scott Beatty (w), Butch Guice (p),
Mike Perkins (i), Laura Martin (c)
The Enigmatic Prism nearly killed Simon Archard and Emma Bishop - and now history may repeat itself! The mysterious gemstone is missing, and little do our daring detectives know that the cursed crystal lies at the focus of several seemingly unrelated crimes!
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 24 $2.95

SIGIL #40
Chuck Dixon (w), Dale Eaglesham (p),
Andrew Hennessy (i), Andrew Crossley (c)
He's a battle-scarred soldier who just wants to live his life out of the spotlight…but to save the universe from the horrors of the Negation, Sam will have to make a huge decision! "A science fiction epic…that rivals Star Wars!" -411Mania.com
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 10 $2.95

SIGIL Vol. 5: DEATH MATCH
Chuck Dixon (w), Scott Eaton (p),
Andrew Hennessy (i), Andrew Crossley (c)
Humanity's last hope for survival is a grizzled galactic mercenary, and to save us all, Samandahl Rey must face the mighty Saurian Weaponsmaster! But what will Sam have to unleash to achieve victory? Find out in the graphic novel that reprints SIGIL #27 - #32!
160 pgs, full color, trade paperback, on sale Sept. 17 $15.95

SILKEN GHOST #5 (of 5)
Chuck Dixon (w), Will Rosado (p),
Chuck Gibson (i), Michael Atiyeh (c)
From the pages of WAY OF THE RAT! The remaining ghost warriors finally reach the mountain fortress of their master - and find that their greatest enemy has become more powerful than ever! After their taxing trials, can they possibly defeat the lethal Laughing Ghost?
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 10 $2.95

SOJOURN #27
Ian Edginton (w), Greg Land (p),
Jay Leisten (i), Justin Ponsor (c)
Arwyn gets wet & wild! Sick of the desert sand, our fearsome foursome sets sail for Skarnhime - but no one warned them about sea serpents! Surrounded by waves and beasts, can Arwyn, Kreeg and Gareth truly trust the thief called Cassidy?
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 10 $2.95

SOLUS #7
Barbara Kesel (w), George Pérez (p),
Rick Magyar (i), Larry Molinar (c)
Another sigil stolen! First she took the mark from the barbarian warrior Brath - now Andra Radiant captures a new piece of her past! How will this acquisition rock Andra? "Grade: A" -Comics Buyer's Guide
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 17 $2.95

WAY OF THE RAT #17
Chuck Dixon (w), Jeff Johnson (p),
Tom Ryder (i), Chris Garcia (c)
When the Silken Ghost discovers a weapon that can save the city of Zhumar from the ghost of Judge X'ain, Boon Sai Hong once again leaps into the crossroads of destiny! "Delivers action, martial arts fantasy and more laughs than a barrel full of talking monkeys!" -BrokenFrontier.com
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 3 $2.95

R.A. SALVATORE'S DEMONWARS: EYE FOR AN EYE #5 (of 5)
R.A. Salvatore & Scott Ciencin (w), Greg Tocchini (p),
Andrew Pepoy (i), Tad Ehrlich (c)
Concluding the DemonWars tale that reveals events from before R.A. Salvatore's novels! When a murderer is revealed the barbarian ranger Andacanavar must choose between administering justice - or taking bloody revenge! Meanwhile, only Grave Mungo, Ketsuo and Sagara stand between Corona and an invasion of a dark djinn's demonic legions!
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 3 $2.95

BRIAN PULIDO'S LADY DEATH: A MEDIEVAL TALE #8
Brian Pulido (w), Fabrizio Fiorentino (p),
Ted Pertzborn (i), Chris Blythe (c)
Can Lady Death cross the bridge of the borderlands and infiltrate the realm of the enigmatic Eldritch? Will Thorm Gara lead the troops of Aglarond into war with the human kingdoms? And what are the Archbishop's devastating plans for both sides of this wicked war?
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 10 $2.95

THE CROSSOVERS #9
Robert Rodi (w), Joe Staton (p),
Ernie Colon (i), Mark McNabb (c)
"Cross Your Hearts" part 3 of 3! The Goddess of Discord is still playing havoc with everyone's love life… a battle-mad GargantuJuan attacks Archetype's young protégé… and unless Eradika shows up soon, the Bellekosin will dissolve into chaos! Plus: a startling revelation about Cubby! "Good natured fun!" -Peter David
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 17 $2.95

THE CROSSOVERS Vol. 1: CROSS CURRENTS
Robert Rodi (w), Mauricet (p),
Ernie Colon (i), Mark McNabb (c)
It's a whole comics universe - living under the same roof! Meet Carter Crossover, the superhero known as Archetype… his wife Calista, a fourth-generation vampire slayer… daughter Chris, a.k.a. the warrior princess Eradika… and son Clifford, UFO abductee and alien collaborator. Can a family survive the rigors of four genres, and only one bathroom? Find out in the graphic novel that reprints THE CROSSOVERS #1 - #6!
160 pgs, full color, Traveler-sized trade paperback, on sale Sept. 24 $9.95

MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE - ICONS OF EVIL: TRI-KLOPS #1
Robert Kirkman (w), Diogenes Neves (p & i),
Bill Crabtree (c)
Continuing the ICONS OF EVIL one-shots, revealing key chapters in the lives of He-Man's most fearsome foes! Deep in the heart of Eternia's Dark Hemisphere lies a fortress containing vast amounts of untapped technology…and Keldor wants it! But what bizarre events transformed this noble swordsman who guards the castle's secrets into the villainous Tri-Klops? Find out in a standalone story perfect for fans of the famous toys and cartoons!
48 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 17 $4.95

HE-MAN LITHOGRAPH: 20 YEARS OF POWER!
MVCreations presents an 18" x 24", full-color lithograph featuring every version of He-Man from throughout his 20-year history! Limited to only 1,500 copies!
On sale Sept. 3…$19.99

SKELETOR LITHOGRAPH: 20 YEARS OF POWER!
MVCreations presents an 18" x 24", full-color lithograph featuring every version of Skeletor from throughout his 20-year history! Limited to only 1,500 copies!
On sale Sept. 3…$19.99

TALES OF THE REALM #1 (of 6)
Robert Kirkman (w), Matt Tyree (p & i),
Mike Garcia (c)
Fantasy meets reality! What if the amazing elements of sword & sorcery were blended with the familiar hustle and bustle of modern life on Earth? Find out as we follow three actors as they fight to make it big in a slightly different Hollywood on the hit TV show "Tales of the Realm!" It's the light-hearted adventure that dares to ask: is sharing a dressing room next to a sludge troll fun? And what's the best dragon to ride to work?
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 3 $2.95

DON BLUTH'S DRAGON'S LAIR #2 (of 6)
Andy Mangels (w), Fabio Laguna (p & i),
Tony Washington (c)
Based on the hit Don Bluth fantasy video game! On his valiant quest to save his true love, Dirk the Daring has ventured into the Grim Dingy Swamps - as the Lizard King waits in the shadows! Meanwhile, what does the great dragon Singe have planned for Princess Daphne?
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 10 $2.95

DON BLUTH'S SPACE ACE #2 (of 6)
Robert Kirkman (w), Paulo Borges (p & i), Pat Duke (c)
Based on the hit Don Bluth Sci-Fi video game! Commander Gorf has come looking for his twin brother Borf - and now Ace will have to face the effects of both the Infanto Ray and the Geezero Ray!
32 pgs, full color, on sale Sept. 24 $2.95

SOLUS #4

CG SNEAK PEEK: SOLUS #4! George Pérez...In Spaaaaace! So far we've seen him draw virtual reality chaos, hellish hounds and barbarian battles... now George Pérez continues his tour through the CrossGen Universe with a standalone sci-fi thriller in the pages of SOLUS #4! Comics Buyer's Guide gave this series an "A", and now -- on June 18th -- you can join Pérez, writer Barbara Kesel, inker Rick Magyar and colorist Larry Molinar as the enigmatic Andra Radiant continues to steal sigils and drop jaws!

(Vu: Preview pages previously available from From June 1, 2003 | PCS Preview of Solus #4)

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A SNEAK PEEK INSIDE DRAGON'S LAIR!

MVCreations and CrossGen Reveal Interior Art From The Upcoming Adventure!

Two decades ago, Dragon's Lair thrilled fans by combining feature-quality animation with revolutionary computer technology. Recently a whole new generation of players discovered Bluth's genius through the acclaimed Dragon's Lair 3D game. And now, on August 6th, everyone who loves the classic Bluth art style is invited once again to a time of swords, sorcery, brave knights and fighting-mad princesses! Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the smash hit arcade game, MVCreations and CrossGen present DRAGON'S LAIR: SINGE'S REVENGE!

The six-issue mini-series follows the further adventures Dirk the Daring and Princess Daphne, as they return from an astonishing adventure in the Free Realms only to be attacked by the great dragon Singe and his evil minions! Singe has vowed revenge against Dirk for killing his offspring, and Daphne is caught in the dread dragon's claws! Armed only with his courage and skill, Dirk must brave the Dark Kingdom and all its evils in order to save the Princess from Singe!

"We're absolutely thrilled to be working with animation legend Don Bluth on the comic book series, said MVCreations president Val Staples. "Don's been fantastic and has been involved in every aspect of the book, from the story's conception all the way to the art production. This is a book that stays true to the Dragon's Lair mythos while also setting the stage for some big screen adventures."

"We've revved together an outstanding creative team to bring the series to life," raved MVCreations art director Matt Tyree. "Star Wars and Star Trek novelist Andy Mangels has written a wonderfully witty and humorous action adventure script. Penciler Fabio Laguna worked closely with Don Bluth, Gary Goldman and the Bluth Group in order to capture the animated dynamics of Dragon's Lair and translated the look and feel into comic book format. And colorist Tony Washington's hues are breathtaking!"

"It's very rewarding to be working on a series that will not only appeal to veteran comic book readers, but also with children as well," remarked MVCreations marketing director Jonboy Meyers. "We've wanted to produce something that will appeal to an audience of all ages, and DRAGON'S LAIR: SINGE'S REVENGE certainly delivers the goods. Kids will love the fast-paced action and visuals, while older fans will get a kick out of the Shrek-like humor."

DRAGON'S LAIR: SINGE'S REVENGE #1 can be ordered in the CrossGen section of the June Diamond Previews catalog. Lead on, adventurer . . . your quest awaits!

TAKE THE ON-RAMP TO ROUTE 666!

Issue #13 Offers A Swift Summery Of The Horrific & Hilarious Buzz Book!

When the first ROUTE 666 graphic novel recently hit, you may have heard a buzz building.

Calling it "an enjoyably creepy road trip," Publisher's Weekly applauded the title's "canny blend of action, menace and humor."

Handing it a grade of A-, Comics Buyer's Guide remarked that "the story moves along at a brisk pace, the action scenes are exciting, the grotesquery is well placed and the slick artwork will appeal to fans of both mainstream and horror comics."

Dubbing it "happy retro horror," BPM magazine crowned it "way more fun than freeze-framing gory scenes from Return of the Living Dead!"

Zentertainment.com raved that "ROUTE 666 reminds me of a Stephen King novel...(with) a mix of action, suspense, character development, crackling dialogue, humor and above all, weird supernatural happenings."

Comix View stated that "now that Buffy is off the tube, one of the best places for horror comics fans to head is down ROUTE 666!"

Go-Girl.com said "Look out Wolverine, Cassie from ROUTE 666 has a sixth sense and fights werewolves and spirits -- and does so in style. She, like the other (CrossGen female heroes), shows girls how to face up to their fears and stand up for what they believe in."

Finally, decreeing that it "offers more solid bang for the buck than any other horror comic on the market, bar none, " ComicBookGalaxy.com said "whether your taste for terror leans more toward Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Lucifer or Hellboy, this is one comic that all fans of the genre should be reading."

So if you're ready to let writer Tony Bedard, Fray penciler Karl Moline, inker Drew Geraci and colorist Nick Bell take you for a wild ride, you should grab ROUTE 666 #13. On sale June 18th, the latest chapter in the life of Cassie Starkweather -- the troubled teen who's either a psycho killer or psychic savior -- opens with a quick recap supplying everything you need to know to head down this horrific and hilarious highway!

SCION SURPRISES IN SEPTEMBER!

New Writer...New Penciler...New Key Issue!

Mysterious power courses through his body. An island of escaped slaves look to him for protection. But now Ethan, the troubled prince caught between two warring kingdoms, will gain two new allies as writer Ian Edginton (X-Force) and penciler Luke Ross (Spectacular Spider-Man) join the SCION creative team. Both creators leap onboard in September with SCION #40, a new-reader-friendly "Key Issue" that opens a fresh chapter on the dangerous techno-medieval world of Avalon.

"Swords, sorcery and science fiction! Come on, how could I pass this up?" stated Edginton, who, as previously announced, is also joining SOJOURN as ongoing writer. "SCION is steeped in mythic overtones which I love. The warring houses, the youngest prince who makes good, the love of his life who is the sister of his enemy...it encompasses everything from Shakespeare to Wagner to Star Wars!"

"The thing that clinched it for me was just a single panel showing a warrior riding a flying dragon with computer controls built into the saddle and a free-floating heads-up display in front of him. It was so cool," explained Edginton. "And now I want to move things one step further. Broaden the canvas. After all, how do two conflicted realms act when they're faced by a massive mutual threat? Is my enemy's enemy my friend...or still my enemy?"

"SCION mixes science fiction and medieval culture, two subjects I've always been fond of," echoed Ross. "I'm deeply grateful to be joining the team behind one of CrossGen's premiere titles. I also admire the wonderful work of inker John Dell and colorist Jason Keith, and I'm sure that we'll create lots of wild visuals in SCION!"

"Joining CrossGen gives me the opportunity to have closer communication with the team ultimately responsible for the book, which is an opportunity I've craved since I started working in comics," continued Ross. "I love the pleasant attitude inside CrossGen Studios. Especially for someone who's used to working alone at home, it's very exciting to be in a place where everyone talks the same 'comic book' language!"

SCION #39, on sale August 20th, will be the final issue by the original creative team of writer Ron Marz and penciler Jim Cheung. As a special "farewell" to their fans, this issue will offer a revealing tour of Avalon with all double-page spreads, presented in the classic "Prince Valiant" comic strip style.

"Now that I'm taking on additional responsibilities for CrossGen--as well as developing new projects to write--something had to give. With Jim also shifting to new undertakings, it only seemed fitting that after three years we ride off into the sunset together," explained Marz. "Readers are going to see Ian nurturing some of the seeds we've planted, as well as adding some great new elements. As with SOJOURN, the work he's turned in thus far has already proven that he's the right guy to take the reins on SCION."

"I had a blast working on SCION with so many talented creators," said Cheung. "I've always wanted to draw a fantasy adventure, and SCION gave me the rare opportunity to help build one from the ground floor up. Now Luke gets to expand the blueprints."

"So what will be my next CrossGen project?" Cheung asked. "Things are cooking, so stay tuned! In the meantime, it's going to be fun seeing whether the Heron and Raven kingdoms can stop fighting long enough to survive an attack by the robotic Tigris empire!"

SCION #40, a 32-page "Key Issue" on sale September 17th, will be available for order in the July 2003 issue of Diamond Comics Distributors' Previews catalog.

BABES AND BEASTS!

Land Delivers The Good, The Bad And The Ugly!

It's no secret: Greg Land knows how to draw beautiful people like Arwyn and Gareth. But one look at the first three pages of SOJOURN #24 will reveal that he's also skilled at delivering brutal beasts! So be there on June 11th as Land, writer Ron Marz, inker Jay Leisten and colorist Justin Ponsor deliver more hot heroes and malevolent monsters!

THE EAGLE SOARS!

Dale Eaglesham Delivers The Sizzle On SIGIL #37!

You know how they say that joining the CrossGen team seems to bring out the best in some creators? Well, one look at the following art and you'll see that penciler Dale Eaglesham sure seems to be flourishing! Here's the cover and first seven pages from SIGIL #37 -- on sale June 11th -- courtesy of Dale, writer Chuck Dixon, inker Andrew Hennessy, colorist Andrew Crossley and letterer Dave Lanphear! Can space soldier Sam survive the might of a lethal Lawbringer? Who knows...but the fight sure will look cool!

TRY THE TRAVELERS! Portable & Affordable Graphic Novels Are Here! Laptops, CD players, cell phones... in this age of evolving consumer products, smaller is better. Which is exactly what we were thinking when we developed the Traveler format. Measuring 8" by 5", these full-color graphic novels deliver a handy size at a nice price. In fact, Wizard magazine said, "The new CrossGen Travelers are simply amazing...they're the perfect size to stuff in a book bag or even a back pocket." And with a price of only $9.95--for 192 pages--they won't break your wallet either! Yesterday MERIDIAN TRAVELER Vol. 2: GOING TO GROUND and MYSTIC TRAVELER Vol. 1: RITE OF PASSAGE hit the stage, while SCION TRAVELER Vol. 2: BLOOD FOR BLOOD and THE PATH TRAVELER Vol. 1: CRISIS OF FAITH will arrive on June 11th. And if your local retailer ordered the TRAVELER DISPLAY UNIT, you may also find RUSE TRAVELER Vol. 1: ENTER THE DETECTIVE and SOJOURN TRAVELER Vol. 1: FROM THE ASHES waiting for you right now! So if you ever wanted to give a CrossGen series a try--or if you like big adventure for a small price--then try the Travelers!

CHIMERA...THE CONCLUSION!

The Finale To Brandon Peterson's Sci-Fi Thriller Hits Next Week!

If you stopped by the CrossGen booth at Wizard World: East then you saw with your own eyes the glory that is the 3D animation adaptation of CHIMERA. Created by the maestros from the D.A.V.E. School of Animation (in Orlando, FL), the action-packed video wowed all who viewed it...and now the mini-series that inspired it is coming to its star-spanning conclusion!

In one short week, Brandon Peterson and Ron Marz deliver the fiery finale of the adventure that NewType USA called "Stunning"! Will Sara master her newly-discovered powers? Can one woman possibly withstand an all-out assault by the Chimeran Imperium? And how many amazing images can Brandon throw at us, anyway? Find out on June 11th!

LAURA MARTIN "THREE-PEATS" AS FAVORITE COLORIST!

RUSE Colorist Claims Crown In 2003 CBG Fan Awards!

For the third year running, Laura Martin was named "Favorite Colorist" in the Comics Buyer's Guide Fan Awards. Fellow CrossGen colorists Justin Ponsor and Rob Schwager also made the 2003 list in comics industry's longest running awards.

"Wow! What a surprise and honor. I want to give a big thank-you to all the folks who voted," stated Laura. "I also want to say that I'm lucky to be surrounded by such a great group of color artists who always keep me on my toes. Also, I want to thank writer Scott Beatty, penciler Butch Guice and inker Mike Perkins for bringing out the best in me."

Every month, readers can enjoy Laura's work on RUSE, Justin's hues on SOJOURN and Rob's colors on BRATH. CrossGen thanks every fan that voted for these talented artists.

RETAILER ALERT: CROSSGEN IN THE MEDIA!

Publisher's Weekly, BPM and Cinescape Spotlight ROUTE 666, RUSE and THE CROSSOVERS!

Retailers should check their inventory and be prepared for curious customers who've read recent articles in the following internationally-distributed magazines:

PUBLISHER'S WEEKLY: The May 26 issue of "The International News Magazine Of Book Publishing and Bookselling" reviews both ROUTE 666 Vol. 1: HIGHWAY TO HORROR and RUSE Vol. 2: THE SILENT PARTNER. First, the 160-page chiller by Tony Bedard, Karl Moline, John Dell and Nick Bell is praised as "A canny blend of action, menace and horror... (that) will make readers uncertain whether to flinch or chuckle...an enjoyably creepy road trip." Then, the 160-page whodunit by Mark Waid, Scott Beatty, Butch Guice, Mike Perkins and Laura DePuy-Martin is hailed as "A highly entertaining mix of mystery and humor...(whose) pages burst with detail and atmosphere."

BPM: The June issue of "The Electronic Lifestyle" glossy also shines a spotlight on ROUTE 666 Vol. 1: HIGHWAY TO HORROR, dubbing it "happy retro horror," and crowning it "way more fun than freeze-framing gory scenes from Return of the Living Dead."

CINESCAPE: In an article titled "Crossing Over With Robert Rodi," the June issue of the genre magazine that goes "Beyond Entertainment" celebrates the Code 6 series THE CROSSOVERS. Pointing readers towards THE CROSSOVERS #7, which kicks off a three-part story-arc featuring art by legendary penciler Joe Staton, writer Arnold T. Blumberg says "It's tough to maintain family values in today's complicated world, and it doesn't make it any easier if every member of your family comes from a different comic book genre!"

MERIDIAN METAMORPHOSIS!

Another Associate Penciler Program Graduate Takes Flight With MERIDIAN!

With another school year over, it's time for a new graduate to spread his wings. Beginning with August's MERIDIAN #39, Vincenzo Cucca, another success story of CrossGen's Associate Penciler program, will join the acclaimed fantasy series as its ongoing illustrator. Steve McNiven, after flying high with Sephie for nearly two years, is rocketing on to new CrossGen projects after MERIDIAN #36.

"I've seen a lot of artists grow on the job, but I've never seen as accelerated an evolution as that which Steve McNiven displayed on MERIDIAN," stated writer Barbara Kesel. "Steve impressed us with his sample work, and continued to impress legions of readers ever since. Steve brought invention and innovation to his work on this book, and he's always going to be one to watch."

"So what's next for MERIDIAN?" asked Kesel. "Readers already have a hint if they've seen the lovely cover to the direct market version of the MERIDIAN Vol. 2 graphic novel. Vincenzo 'Enzo' Cucca, the latest graduate of our Associate Penciler program, is already making MERIDIAN his own, aided and abetted by inker Don Hillsman II and colorist Sumi Pak New art team, same old writer, and some incredible surprises coming up!"

And to give you a taste of the excitement on the way, feast your eyes on these two covers -- MERIDIAN #39 and #40 -- by the new team of Enzo Cucca, Don Hillsman II and Sumi Pak!

CROSSGEN INVADES PHILLY!

Come Meet Your Favorite CrossGen Creators This Weekend At Wizard World:
East!

A league of extraordinary comics creators are bidding farewell to the warm Florida sun for a weekend...but it'll all be worth it when we see all of the cool fans at Wizard World: East! Yes, the CrossGen crew is invading the Philadelphia Convention Center from Friday, May 30th through Sunday, June 1st!

Here's who will be waiting to sign your comics and draw you sketches -- for
free -- at the colossal CrossGen booth:
Scott Beatty (writer: Ruse)
Tony Bedard (writer: Negation, Mystic and Route 666)
Sergio Cariello (penciler: Crux)
Jim Cheung (penciler: Scion)
Scott Ciencin (writer: DemonWars)
Ernie Colon (inker: The Crossovers)
Chuck Dixon (writer: Sigil, Crux, Way of the Rat and El Cazador)
Steve Epting (penciler: Crux and El Cazador)
Fabrizio Fiorentino (guest penciler: Lady Death)
Butch Guice (penciler: Ruse)
Jeff Johnson (penciler: Way of the Rat)
Barbara Kesel (writer: Meridian, The First and Solus)
Greg Land (penciler: Sojourn)
Aaron Lopresti (penciler: Mystic)
Ron Marz (writer: Sojourn, The Path and Scion)
Mark McNabb (colorist: The Crossovers)
Steve McNiven (penciler: Meridian)
Karl Moline (penciler: Route 666)
Paul Pelletier (penciler: Negation)
Brandon Peterson (illustrator: Chimera)
Brian Pulido (writer: Lady Death)
Robert Rodi (writer: The Crossovers)
Bart Sears (vp art director)
Andy Smith (penciler: The First)
Matt Smith (penciler: The Path)
Joe Staton (penciler: The Crossovers)

In addition, CrossGen will be participating in the following power-packed
panels:

FRIDAY, MAY 30TH

1:00 - 2:00: The CrossGen Writers! 
What's next for Arwyn, Simon Archard, and the rest of your favorite CrossGen characters? Find out-straight from Ron Marz, Barbara Kesel, Tony Bedard & Chuck Dixon! (Room 105)

2:30 - 3:30 Wizard School -- Tony Bedard: Taking Notes In A Group 
Comic books are truly a collaborative effort between writer and artists...so how does each creator impact the finished product? Find out from Tony Bedard, writer of Route 666, Mystic and Negation! (Room 107)

SATURDAY, MAY 31ST

11:00 - 12:00: 1-On-1 With Mark Alessi!
What does CrossGen have planned for 2003? Find out as we show you the future...then open the floor to your questions for the founder of CrossGen! Wait'll you see what Mark has up his sleeve now! (Room 105)

2:00 - 3:00: Wizard School -- Scott Beatty: Period Writing!
Setting your adventures during a specific time period isn't easy...so learn the tricks of the trade from Scott Beatty, writer of CrossGen's Victorian mystery series Ruse! (Room 107)

3:30 - 4:30: Wizard School 
Brian Pulido: The Pros & Cons Of Your Own Business! Thinking about starting up your own comic book or toy company? Then you owe it to yourself to learn from Brian Pulido, the man behind Lady Death! (Room 107)


SUNDAY, JUNE 1ST

11:00 - 12:00: Wizard School
Chuck Dixon: Beyond Formula - Beyond Comic Clichés & Genre Fixtures! Sick of the same old settings, speeches and situations? So is writer Chuck Dixon...and now he'll tell you how to avoid the ordinary! Be there as the master of amazing action scenes lays out the 411! (Room 107)

2:00 - 3:00: Code 6!
Lady Death! The Crossovers! DemonWars! Be there to hear the latest about CrossGen's action-packed imprint from editors Ian Feller & Ron Marz, and creators Rob Rodi, Scott Ciencin, Joe Staton, Ernie Colon, and Brian Pulido! (Room 105)

See you at the big booth!

SNAKE STRIKES EARLY!

JOHN CARPENTER'S SNAKE PLISSKEN CHRONICLES #1 Hits The Streets One Month Early!

JOHN CARPENTER'S SNAKE PLISSKEN CHRONICLES #1, originally scheduled for a June 25th release, will now reach comics shops on May 29th. The all-new bi-monthly series, written by William O'Neill and illustrated by Tone Rodriguez, is the creation of CrossGen publishing client Hurricane Entertainment.

"Once again, Snake is surprising everyone," said Hurricane CEO Jan Utstein-O'Neill. "Striking suddenly, the anti-hero is now making his debut nearly a full month early. And that means that we'll be able to sign copies at the WizardWorld: East comic convention in Philadelphia on May 30th. We will also be premiering a special Convention Exclusive cover that will only be available during the 2003 con season."

"In the new series, Snake will tear his way through New York, Atlantic City and Philadelphia," added writer William O'Neill. "Now, we'll do the same!"

While on the East Coast, writer William O'Neill, artist Tone Rodriguez and Jan Utstein-O'Neill will participate in a tour of local comics shops. Appearances to date include Zap Comics in Freehold, NJ on May 29th; WizardWorld: East at the Philadelphia Convention Center from May 30th - June 1st; and Jester's Playhouse in Northfield, NJ, on June 4th. Jester's is located just outside Atlantic City, where the first Snake story begins. Finally, on June 5th, the Hurricane crew will be at Midtown Comics right in the heart of New York City. Copies of JOHN CARPENTER'S SNAKE PLISSKEN CHRONICLES #1 and VIOLENT MESSIAHS will be available, as well as plenty of fun giveaways. Readers are advised to contact the comics shops for exact location and times.

The first issue of JOHN CARPENTER'S SNAKE PLISSKEN CHRONICLES will also contain extras, such as a bonus sketchbook that includes the first artwork Rodriguez drew of Snake Plissken that landed the partnership with John Carpenter, Debra Hill and Kurt Russell. As another added bonus, issue #1 also includes a four-page sneak preview of Hurricane's newest project THE DIPLOMATS, written and drawn by William O'Neill.

And now you can check out the first five pages from the debut issue!

MCNIVEN THE MAGNIFICENT!

Steve Soars To New Heights In MERIDIAN #36!

Sometimes comic book art makes you go "Whoa!" Usually, it's a wide screen shot of big brutes slugging each other through buildings. But once in a while, it's an artist's subtle touch that does the trick. Take Steve McNiven's art in MERIDIAN #36, for instance. Month after month, Steve's raised his game...and this time he takes us soaring through the sky right along with Sephie. And Steve will be the first one to say that inker Tom Simmons and colorist Morry Hollowell made it all happen...not to mention the story that Barbara Kesel gave him to draw.

So if you're ready to glide through the clouds, check out Steve's art in MERIDIAN #36 on May 28th -- and then you'll see why HeroRealm.com said "Just because the lead character is a young woman doesn't mean that only young women can read and enjoy MERIDIAN!"

CROSSGEN CUTS CANADIAN PRICES AGAIN!

$0.70CAN Reduction Per Issue Starting In June!

Here's another Canadian price update that will hopefully make our friends from the Great White North smile.

Due to the U.S. Dollar exchange rate, CrossGen's $2.95US titles--beginning with all issues on sale June 2003--will now be priced at $4.00CAN. This is a further reduction on our earlier announced price change of $4.50CAN.

Combining both adjustments, that's a $0.70CAN change per issue, from $4.75CAN down to $4.00CAN.

CROSSGEN TRAVELERS DISPLAY!

New Full-Color Retail Unit Ships In June!

The TRAVELER line, which introduces six new 8" x 5" volumes in June, is one of CrossGen's major launches for 2003. Now, to help readers find the "manga-sized" books, we've created the new CROSSGEN TRAVELERS DISPLAY (APR032095J), which features full-color illustrations of two of our coolest characters, RUSE's Simon Archard and SOJOURN's Arwyn!

Shipping on June 4th, the sturdy display will come pre-packed with five copies each of MERIDIAN TRAVELER Vol. 2, MYSTIC TRAVELER Vol. 1, THE PATH TRAVELER Vol. 1, SCION TRAVELER Vol. 2, RUSE TRAVELER VOL. 1 and SOJOURN TRAVELER Vol. 1. Each 192-page collection is now open for Advance Reorders through Diamond Comics Distributors.

Portable and affordable, this is the format that Wizard hailed as "simply amazing...they're the perfect size to stuff in a book bag or even a back pocket." And now a store near you can gather them in one convenient spot!

Here's the solicitation text for our August 2003 offerings.

This information is embargoed until tomorrow, Wednesday the 21st.

All art will be available on Friday, the 23rd at crossgen.com (via the media section).

BRATH #7
Chuck Dixon (w), Andrea DiVito (p), 
Roland Paris (i), Rob Schwager (c)
Brath in chains! He was betrayed on the battlefield, his wife has been kidnapped, and his son is missing. Now, his life in shambles, the Man-Killer is summoned by the Emperor himself! But will the barbarian leader's arrival in the capital city spell victory for the Empire…or its utter defeat? Find out as a new story begins! "Like historical adventure with a barbaric fantasy edge? Then check out BRATH!" -Comic Shop News
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 27 $2.95

CRUX #29
Chuck Dixon (w), Sergio Cariello (p),
Rob Hunter (i), Laura Villari (c)
Status quo-changing issue! With his city facing annihilation both from human and Negation invaders, Tug makes a decision that will rock Atlantis-and the entire CrossGen Universe-to its core!
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 20 $2.95

THE FIRST #34
Barbara Kesel (w), Andy Smith (p),
Rob Hunter (i), Morry Hollowell (c)
The secret of the First: revealed! When Andra-straight from the pages of SOLUS #5-exposes the origin of the First to Pyrem, even a god can break! And the Houses aren't going to like the results! Be there as the seeds of destruction finally explode! "Political drama + power struggles + gods = THE FIRST!" 
-411Mania.com
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 6 $2.95

MERIDIAN #39
Barbara Kesel (w), Vincenzo Cucca (p),
Don Hillsman II (i), Sumi Pak (c)
Future star Vincenzo Cucca makes his CrossGen debut! Jad searches for Sephie, but finds something deadly instead! Meanwhile, Sephie's in danger, too…but she may not want to be rescued! "Remarkable stuff…Just because the lead character is a young woman doesn't mean that only young women can read and enjoy MERIDIAN!" -HeroRealm.com
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 27 $2.95

MYSTIC #39
Tony Bedard (w), Aaron Lopresti (p),
Matt Ryan (i), Wil Quintana (c)
This is it, the culmination of a year long saga! Battered and bruised, Giselle must use every magical lesson she's learned to escape her imprisonment and bring down the evil Geometer Guild! "Tony Bedard has brought a great deal of intrigue and mystery to this title…a delightful comic!" -BrokenFrontier.com
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 6 $2.95

MYSTIC GRAPHIC NOVEL VOL. 5: MASTER CLASS
Tony Bedard (w), Fabrizio Fiorentino & Aaron Lopresti (p), 
Matt Ryan (i), Wil Quintana (c)
A new volume collecting MYSTIC #27 - 32! On a world where society is based upon magic, ultimate power rests in the hands of the last person who wants it: Giselle Villard, professional party girl! Now attempting to embrace her new responsibilities, Giselle visits each Guild Land to learn their magic…but trouble awaits! 
160 pgs, full color, trade paperback, on sale August 20 $15.95

NEGATION #21
Tony Bedard (w), Paul Pelletier (p),
Dave Meikis (i), James Rochelle (c)
A turning point in the cosmic conflict! Deep within the bowels of a Negation prison, the fugitives take on their greatest challenge-and pay the price! They can free the leader of the Resistance…but is it worth the sacrifice? "Whoa! CrossGen gets hardcore! Great setting, characters, premise, and action!" -FanBoyRadio.com
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 13 $2.95

THE PATH #18
Ron Marz (w), Ron Wagner (p),
Armando Durruthy (i), Frank D'Armata (c)
While the monk-turned-warrior Obo-san gathers his troops for revolt, the mad Emperor Mitsumune rebuilds his own samurai army, spelling certain doom for Obo-san's rebellion! "Beautiful…mysterious…" -BPM Magazine
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 27 $2.95

ROUTE 666 #15
Tony Bedard (w), 
John McCrea (guest penciler & inker), Justin Ponsor (c)
Featuring the guest-art of John McCrea (Hitman, Jenny Sparks) - and the introduction of a major new character! Meet Brion, the toughest, cruelest, most unpredictable foe yet to set his eyes on Cassie Starkweather! Who is this wandering demon, and how will he change both Cassie's life and her struggle against the forces of darkness? "ROUTE 666 offers more solid bang for your buck than any other horror comic on the market, bar none." -ComicBookGalaxy.com
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 20 $2.95 

RUSE #23
Scott Beatty (w), Butch Guice (p),
Mike Perkins (i), Laura Martin (c)
Simon Archard returns to his alma mater-for a very final exam! To rebuild his shattered reputation, our daring detective returns to Partington University! But can he solve the riddle of his premature graduation…not to mention the mystery of the stealthy sniper stalking his school? "Rollicking, hysterical, rewarding, unexpected…a fine gem of a comic." -The Ragged Edge
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 27 $2.95 

SCION #39
Ron Marz (w), Jim Cheung (p),
TBD (i), Jason Keith (c)
A special stand-alone, all double-page spread issue! Told in the tradition of Hal Foster's legendary Prince Valiant Sunday pages, this issue's amazingly detailed double-page spreads will bring to breathtaking life the story of Prince Ethan and the techno-medieval world of Avalon! If you've ever wanted to check out SCION-or if you're just a lover of great art-this is the issue for you! "SCION mixes the feel of Arthurian fantasy with the technological sizzle of Star Wars." -The Daily Oklahoman
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 20 $2.95

SIGIL #39
Chuck Dixon (w), Ron Wagner (guest penciler),
Armando Durruthy (i), Andrew Crossley (c) 
It's the Saurians vs. the Negation in the most intense space battle yet! The universe you love to hate has engulfed a Saurian outworld, and now it's up to Tchlusarud and his most wicked warriors to save the planet! But no one told the Negation to fight fair-so expect writer Chuck "Mr. Action" Dixon to pull out all the stops!
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 13 $2.95

SILKEN GHOST #4 (of 5)
Chuck Dixon (w), Will Rosado (p),
James Hodgkins (i), Michael Atiyeh (c)
From the pages of WAY OF THE RAT! As the Silken Ghost and her comrades near their goal, the stakes rise and the true nature of the Laughing Ghost-and Tei Su herself-is revealed! If you crave martial arts action, the seductive Silken Ghost delivers!
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 13 $2.95

SOJOURN #26
Ian Edginton (w), Lewis LaRosa (guest penciler),
Rick Magyar (i), Dean White (c)
Mordath grabs the spotlight! CrossGen's ultimate villain, the undead terror known as Mordath, takes center stage-and tightens his iron grip on the Five Lands! "One of the most interesting and entertaining books CrossGen publishes…and one of the most accessible to new readers."-Comix View
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 13 $2.95

SOLUS #6
Barbara Kesel (w), George Pérez (p),
Rick Magyar (i), Larry Molinar (c)
Pérez is back! Andra Radiant thinks she has control of Elysia…but power is a deceptive commodity in the land of the First! "SOLUS is a mysterious, puzzling, maddening, beautiful book… Pérez fans should run out and buy this!" -4ColorReview.com
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 20 $2.95

WAY OF THE RAT #16
Chuck Dixon (w), Jeff Johnson (p),
Tom Ryder (i), Chris Garcia (c) 
Someone dies this issue…but who? The spirit of Judge X'ain now inhabits the body of the deadliest assassin in the empire! Will he use this newfound host to bring peace to Zhumar or to settle old scores? What do you think? Be there as another cast member falls beneath the blade of an assassin! "WAY OF THE RAT continues to impress on just about every level! Dixon's instilled it with humor, mysticism, and excitement…mesmerizing!" -TheFourthRail.com
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 6 $2.95

WAY OF THE RAT GRAPHIC NOVEL VOL. 2: THE DRAGON'S WAKE
Chuck Dixon (w), Jeff Johnson (p),
Tom Ryder (i), Chris Garcia (c) 
A new volume collecting WAY OF THE RAT #7 - #12! Boon Sai Hong, a.k.a. "The Jade Rat", never aspired to be more than a thief…but that was before the wisecracking monkey known as Po Po dragged him kicking and screaming towards his destiny! Now Boon is after the infamous Book of Hells…but the horror he unleashes may engulf the city of Zhumar in a sea of flames! 
160 pgs, full color, trade paperback, on sale August 6 $15.95

THE CROSSOVERS #8
Robert Rodi (w), Joe Staton (p), 
Ernie Colon (i), Mark McNabb (c)
Will the Crossovers get divorced?! The Greek goddess of discord spreads more romantic havoc in Crosstown, deepening the rift between Carter and Calista! Plus: Eradika's tribe rebels, and Archetype's young partner swoops in! All this and Cubby, too! "A nice, entertaining story for both genders and all ages...THE CROSSOVERS should have crossover appeal." -Peter David
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 20 $2.95

R.A. SALVATORE'S DEMONWARS: EYE FOR AN EYE #4 (of 5)
R.A. Salvatore & Scott Ciencin (w), Greg Tocchini (p),
Jon Holdredge (i), Tad Ehrlich (c)
Continuing the DemonWars tale that reveals what happened before the novels! The barbarian ranger Andacanavar is tempted by what he wants most in life-but at what cost? Meanwhile, can Grave Mungo, Sagara, and Ketsuo defeat an army backed by the otherworldly power of a demon djinn? 
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 6 $2.95

BRIAN PULIDO'S LADY DEATH: A MEDIEVAL TALE #7
Brian Pulido (w), Ivan Reis (p),
Marc Campos (i), Chris Blythe (c)
Jump on here as a new story begins! In the aftermath of the devastating battle of Novgorod, Hope's Eldritch half-sister delivers horrifying news! Now, against Wolfram von Bach's demands, Lady Death embarks on a quest into the dangerous Borderlands - and into the mysterious Eldritch realm of Aglarond itself! Does treachery lie in wait? Count on it as a new epic begins! "The biggest hit of 2003!" -ComicWorldNews.com
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 13 $2.95

JOHN CARPENTER'S SNAKE PLISSKEN CHRONICLES #2
William O'Neill (w), Tone Rodriguez (p), 
Digital Chameleon (i), Chris Blythe (c)
Cover A By Tone Rodriguez
Cover B by Travis Smith 
Will Plissken role snake eyes in Atlantic City? Double-crossed and left for dead, Snake is driven by one sole purpose: revenge! But first he's got one small obstacle to overcome: he's locked in a steel cage thrown into the Atlantic Ocean! People say that Snake can escape from anything, and now he'll prove it…or die trying!
32 pgs, full color, on sale August 6 $2.99

MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE - ICONS OF EVIL: TRAPJAW #1
Robert Kirkman (w), Carlo Pagulayan (p & i), Mike Pedro (c)
Cover by E.J. Su & Val Staples 
Continuing the ICONS OF EVIL one-shots, revealing key chapters in the lives of He-Man's most fearsome foes! Who is Kronis? How did this once-proud warrior become the mechanized minion known as Trapjaw? Find out as Kronis, at odds with the newly disfigured Skeletor, sets out on his own path, which will lead him to oblivion! Invincible writer Robert Kirkman delivers a stand-alone epic great for fans of the new toys and cartoon!
48 pgs, full color, on sale August 13 $4.95

 

CG SNEAK PEEK: ROUTE 666 #12

Can Cassie Go Home Again?

Spring Break '03 may have come and gone, but that doesn't mean that you still can't take a road trip down ROUTE 666! On May 21st, the creepy creative team of writer Tony Bedard, penciler Karl Moline, inker Drew Geraci and colorist Nick Bell ask: who's in more danger, Cassie -- who's returned home despite the fact that she's a wanted fugitive -- or Mantus and Rimmon -- the two clueless creatures posing as her parents?

Trust me, this issue is a great jump-on point for those curious about the book that ComicBookGalaxy.com says "offers more solid bang for your buck than any other horror comic on the market, bar none." In fact, after missing a few issues, Don MacPherson of TheFourthRail.com stated this week that "the property seems even stronger than before. Sure, the same Buffy vibe is in play, but the book is wickedly funny and twisted, and it was surprisingly easy to delve back into Cassie Starkweather's weird and witty world, even after so many months (away)."

So whaddya waiting for? Find out what all the buzz is about this Wednesday in ROUTE 666 #12!

CROSSGEN CANADIAN PRICES GO SOUTH! Fri, 16 May 2003 15:07:57 -0400

Here's a bit of news that should make our pals up in the Great White North happy: Beginning with our June on sale titles, CrossGen is lowering its Canadian cover prices to $4.50CAN (from $4.75CAN)!

ENTER DRAGON'S LAIR... YOUR QUEST AWAITS!

MVCreations And CrossGen Celebrate Don Bluth's Sword & Sorcery Sensation!

Celebrating the 20th anniversary of master animator Don Bluth's Dragon's Lair, the heroes and villains of the history-making arcade game make their comic book debut this summer! The six-issue DRAGON'S LAIR miniseries, joining SPACE ACE as the second title based on Bluth's cult hit video games, follows the exploits of Dirk the Daring, his beloved Princess Daphne and the diabolical dragon Singe! In the debut issue, Singe, swearing revenge on his hated arch-nemesis, swoops up the Princess in his cruel claws! Now the brave knight must survive the dangers of the Dark Kingdom to save his true love! Brought to you by CrossGen publishing client MVCreations, the six-issue all-ages adventure thunders your way on August 6th.

"We're absolutely thrilled to bring this best-selling video game to comics! And working with Don Bluth is a dream come true!" said MVCreations president Val Staples. "The game made a huge impression on me as a kid, as the beautifully drawn game graphics really pushed the envelope of what was being done in the early '80s. And in my humble opinion, Dragon's Lair set a benchmark for other video games to follow."

"I can't think of any Gen-Xer out there who hasn't played or enjoyed watching the game as a kid," stated MVCreations marketing director Jonboy Meyers. "We wanted to stay true to the look and feel that Don established and repackage it for a whole new generation of fans! Don has such a timeless style and look to his work that is so identifiable; it exudes mass appeal to people of all ages. We're really proud to be working on a comic book that we can sit down and read with our kids."

"We've lined up some really talented people for the series," said Staples. "Penning the book will be Star Wars and Star Trek novelist Andy Mangels, with art by the talented Fabio Laguna. Newcomer Tony Washington will supply the colors for the series. Creatively, the comic book stays faithful to the story established in the original game, but puts a modern twist on things. So expect a lot of high action and comedy to drive the story!"

"I can't tell you how many hours I spent standing slack-jawed in the Wildwood boardwalk arcade, watching lines of gamers play Dragon's Lair," added CrossGen director of marketing & communications Bill Rosemann. "When I saw the art from MVCreations, I had the exact same reaction...the game looked like a lushly animated cartoon, and so does the comic book! They nailed that trademark Bluth look!"

Retailers and readers can order DRAGON'S LAIR #1 in the next edition of Diamond Comics Distributor's Previews catalog. Lead on, adventurer . . . your quest awaits!

CG SNEAK PEEK: SCION #6!

After The Marriage...A Honeymoon From Hell!

Despite Prince Ethan's attempts to halt events, the unthinkable has occurred: his beloved sister Ylena has married his hated arch-nemesis Bron, King of the rival Raven Dynasty! Well, he may have arrived too late to stop the wedding, but that doesn't mean Ethan can't stop the honeymoon! R.S.V.P. for the wild reception on May 21st when writer Ron Marz, penciler Jim Cheung, inker Don Hillsman II and colorist Jason Keith deliver SCION #36!

SOJOURN #23: GREG LAND GOES UNDERGROUND!

Dark & Dangerous Kingdoms Never Looked So Good!

Fantasy fans love maps of faraway lands, as well as the action-packed stories that explore every nook and cranny of those worlds. So far, SOJOURN certainly is delivering, whisking us away to the green valleys of Middelyn and the panoramic cliffs of Ankhara. Recently, the determined duo of Arwyn and Gareth--joined by the sexy thief known as Cassidy--have entered the desert wastes of Oudubai on the hunt for the weapon that will bring down the dread warlord Mordath.

Now, on May 14th, writer Ron Marz will take them beneath the sands and into the shadowed realm of the enigmatic Urnethi...with the troll warrior Bohr hot on their tails! Take a look at the following pages by the superstar art team of penciler Greg Land, inker Jay Leisten, and colorist Justin Ponsor and you'll see that dark and dangerous kingdoms never looked so good!

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL AND BETTER HOMES & GARDENS TOUT CROSSGEN'S BRIDGES!

Popular Magazines Introduce Educational Program To Thousands Of Teachers & Librarians!

CrossGen's innovative educational program BRIDGES has generated coverage in the May 2003 edition of School Library Journal and the June 2003 issue of Better Homes & Gardens. Combined, these two publications introduce the BRIDGES program to thousands of teachers and librarians across North America.

The BRIDGES program offers teachers and parents the opportunity to re-ignite students' interest in reading through exciting visuals and stories provided by CrossGen's comics and one-of-a-kind Teachers Guides. Using MERIDIAN as the basis for intermediate elementary students (grades 4-8), and RUSE for high school students (9-12), CrossGen has engaged the help of seven teachers with more than 100 combined years of classroom teaching experience to create a truly universal supplemental reading program.

In an article entitled "Comics For The Classroom," School Library Journal writes: "The new reading program takes advantage of two of the publisher's graphic novel series: MERIDIAN, a fantasy series that reminds some readers of The Chronicles of Narnia, C.S. Lewis's popular kids' series, and RUSE, a Sherlock Holmesian mystery series. The MERIDIAN series is aimed at middle school students, and RUSE is appropriate for high schoolers. The BRIDGES program comes with graphic novels, teacher's guides, and CD-ROMs with skill activities. Some educators may be pleased to know that the school versions of MERIDIAN and RUSE have been edited for language and occasional sexual innuendo. Currently, the BRIDGES package is part of a pilot program in seven states nationwide. 'This program was developed to embody the whole language approach,' says Beth Widera, CrossGen's education consultant. For more information, contact Widera at bwidera@crossgen.com."

In an article entitled "Comics With Class," Better Homes & Gardens writer Stephen C. George discusses the educational value of comic books. George focuses extensively on BRIDGES, writing:

"When Michelle Tregoning was in grammar school, comic books were something you hid behind your math text. If you got caught with a comic, the teacher threw it out.

"Now, teachers are handing them out. Tregoning should know. She's one of the teachers doing it, as part of an extracurricular reading program she coordinates at LeConte Middle School in Los Angeles. That program, dubbed BRIDGES, is a nationwide initiative designed for elementary, middle, and high school students. BRIDGES was designed by CrossGen, a Florida-based publisher of comic books.

"'Child literacy is in a real crisis situation today. Kids just aren't reading. As a literacy coach, I wanted to find materials that would really engage the students,' says Tregoning. Comics turned out to be an ideal solution, but not for the reasons you might think.

"'There's a persistent belief out there that comics are the lowest form of literature, so of course kids will read them--they're forbidden fruit. But the truth is, comics are a natural tool for reaching the current generation of kids,' says Tony Panaccio, senior vice president of product development for CrossGen.

"CrossGen's BRIDGES program was based on two of its most literate titles: MERIDIAN, the fantasy adventure saga of a young girl who fights to save her peaceful kingdom, and RUSE, a mystery series about a brilliant investigator and his amazing team of associates. CrossGen hired a team of their own: education experts who crafted teacher's guides for use in either a classroom or home schooling environment (for more information, go to www.crossgen.com/education )."

Better Homes & Gardens also praised MERIDIAN as "grand adventure with a strong female lead," while also hailing RUSE as "a must read."

Available in June, the MERIDIAN CLASSROOM PACK (1-59314-018-5, $299.95) comes with a Teacher's Guide, 35 copies of MERIDIAN TRAVELER Vol. 1, and a CD-ROM containing all the exercises and comics pages. School and libraries can also order additional copies of the MERIDIAN TEACHER'S GUIDE (1-59314-020-7, $19.95) and the MERIDIAN 5-PACK (1-59314-019-3, $45.00).

Also available in June, the RUSE CLASSROOM PACK (1-59314-021-5, $299.95) comes with a Teacher's Guide, 35 copies of RUSE TRAVELER Vol. 1, and a CD-ROM containing all the exercises and comics pages. School and libraries can also order additional copies of the RUSE TEACHER'S GUIDE (1-59314-023-1, $19.95) and the RUSE 5-PACK (1-59314-022-3, $45.00).

NEGATION #18: WHAT WILL THEY DO NEXT?

A Standalone Story That Will Knock You Off Your Feet!

When it comes to entertainment -- especially comic books -- we all love being surprised. There's nothing like turning the page and being smacked upside the head by some crazy visual or plot twist. Which might explain why NEGATION is the #1 read title at comicsontheweb.com. It might also be why reviewers are saying things like:

"Whoa! CrossGen gets hardcore! Great setting, characters, premise and action!" -FanboyRadio.com

"Wild widescreen battles...that will keep readers hooked!" -Publisher's Weekly

"Relentless pacing, sharp characterization, a real sense of urgency, and the imaginative, superior pencils of Paul Pelletier... (make NEGATION) another of CrossGen's second wave winners." -4ColorReview.com

"NEGATION is one of those titles that always keeps you off balance...Highly recommended." -411Mania.com

On May 14th you've got the perfect chance to get blown away as writer Tony Bedard, penciler Paul Pelletier, inker Dave Meikis and colorist James Rochelle throw the spotlight on two of the title's most enigmatic characters in NEGATION #18. In a desperate need to jump across the Negation empire, the ferocious Lizard Lady and the scam artist Westin head off to a dangerous world to acquire spare parts for their damaged starship. But when Westin wanders into the wrong bar, he may end up damaged! The question is, will Lizard Lady expose her secret to rescue her often annoying teammate? Find out in this standalone issue that guarantees a surprise...or three!

READ DEMONWARS #1...FOR FREE!
TAMPA, FL., May 12, 2003

Debut Issue Of R.A. Salvatore's Series Can Now Be Read Online At No Cost!

The first issue of R.A. SALVATORE'S DEMONWARS: TRIAL BY FIRE, the adventure that expands the famed fantasy writer's best-selling series of novels, is now available at CrossGen's comicsontheweb.com. As with all of CrossGen's first issues, DEMONWARS: TRIAL BY FIRE #1 can be read online for free.

"With the TRIAL BY FIRE graphic novel now available, and with the first issue of EYE FOR AN EYE just reaching comics shops, this is a great way for readers to enter R.A. Salvatore's amazing world," said DEMONWARS editor Ron Marz.

R.A. SALVATORE'S DEMONWARS: TRIAL BY FIRE is the first comic book that further explores the New York Times best-selling author's fantasy series. Scripted by novelist Scott Ciencin and drawn by Ron Wagner, the five-issue saga stars the barbarian Ranger Andacanavar, one of the most popular continuing characters from Salvatore's novels. When the wild-haired warrior uncovers a plot to wipe mankind from the face of Corona, Andacanavar, along with the heroic Abellican nun Moira and the devious Red Cap Dwarf Grave Mungo, must face the magic-wielding Frost Giants and their terrifying demonic masters. The Traveler-sized graphic novel, which features a new cover by Brandon Peterson, also contains a brand new short story by Salvatore, with spot illustrations by Butch Guice.

Every month, a new issue of the series will be posted for subscribers. A subscription to Comics on the Web, which only costs two dollars per month, gives readers access to over 250 CrossGen Comics, and will eventually include all issues of the DEMONWARS series. The first issue of R.A. SALVATORE'S DEMONWARS: EYE FOR AN EYE, penciled by superstar-in-the-making Greg Tocchini, is now on sale.

CrossGen Entertainment is based just outside of Tampa, Florida. Since its initial publication launch on May 24, 2000, CrossGen has grown into the comic industry's fourth largest print publisher, with its entire line of stories represented in 34 countries and 12 languages, and multiple imprints - CrossGen Publishing, CrossGen Comics, and Code 6 Comics - expanding the scope and reach of the worldwide comics marketplace. In its efforts to expand comic book readership, CrossGen has incorporated tried and true methods, while at the same time has created new practices to meet the ever-changing consumer interest. The company has a long-term exclusive development deal with Branded Entertainment, a film and television production company helmed by long-time Batman film and animated feature executive producer Michael Uslan. The CrossGen comics Brath, Crux, The First, Meridian, Mystic, Negation, The Path, Route 666, Ruse, Scion, Sigil, Sojourn, Solus, and Way of the Rat, and the Code 6 comics The Crossovers, DemonWars, and Lady Death are available as comic books and graphic novels in comic book specialty stores and bookstores everywhere, with a different title on sale each Wednesday. CrossGen has launched its landmark Internet publication, www.comicsontheweb.com, with partners including Lycos, Ifilm, Clear Channel Radio Interactive, YOUtopia.com, ucomics.com, and many others. Most recently, CrossGen announced 11 film and television deals that will see many of its properties developed over the next few years by such talent as Oscar® winning director Robert Zemeckis, Wes Craven (Scream, Nightmare on Elm Street), Chuck Russell (The Mask, Eraser, The Scorpion King), Frank Darabont (The Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile), Bob Gale (Back to the Future), Threshold Entertainment (Mortal Kombat) and many others.

Additional information about CrossGen can be found at www.crossgen.com.