Robert Kirkman expands Energon Universe with ‘80s icon reboot

Nostalgia meets explosive comic comeback

February 24, 2026 – Robert Kirkman’s Skybound Entertainment has officially unveiled a M.A.S.K. comic book series, thrusting the beloved 1980s Mobile Armored Strike Kommand franchise into the heart of the shared Energon Universe alongside Transformers and G.I. Joe. The announcement came during Kirkman’s keynote at the ComicsPRO retailer event in Glendale, California, marking one of the most talked-about industry reveals of 2026.

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New creative team revs the engines

The ongoing comic book series is penned by Dan Watters (Batman: Dark Patterns) with dynamic visuals by artist Pye Parr (New Gods), colors from Pierluigi Casolino, and lettering by Rus Wooton. This powerhouse creative lineup aims to blend high-octane action with deep lore as M.A.S.K.’s elite task force returns to battle the villainous V.E.N.O.M. in a world spiraling toward global catastrophe.

Image Credit: Skybound Entertainment

Classic toys and characters rebooted

Originally a hit animated series and Kenner toy line in the mid-1980s, M.A.S.K. became a cult favorite for its transforming vehicles and high-tech masks. The franchise’s revival through Skybound taps both nostalgia and modern comic storytelling, with the first issue slated for release on June 3, 2026 at comic book stores and digital platforms.

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Epic variants and crossover potential

M.A.S.K. #1 will feature a wide range of variant covers from acclaimed artists like J. Scott Campbell and Cedric Poulat, as well as a first-ever blind bag program offering rare surprise editions. The series also sets up potential story intersections with other Energon Universe titles, fueling fan speculation about future crossovers.

Image Credit: Al Seib / Los Angeles Times

Final thoughts

Skybound’s launch of M.A.S.K. isn’t just a nostalgic callback — it’s a strategic expansion that may reshape comic book crossovers in 2026. Whether long-time fans and new readers embrace this reboot could define the franchise’s legacy for years to come.

FAQs

Q1: What is the new M.A.S.K. series?
It’s an ongoing comic from Skybound and Image Comics that revives the classic M.A.S.K. franchise.

Q2: When does the first issue release?
M.A.S.K. #1 is scheduled for June 3, 2026.

Q3: Who are the main creative team members?
Writer Dan Watters, artist Pye Parr, colorist Pierluigi Casolino, and letterer Rus Wooton.

Q4: What universe does this comic exist in?
It’s part of Skybound’s Energon Universe with Transformers and G.I. Joe titles.

Q5: Will there be special covers?
Yes — including variants by major comic artists and a blind bag program.