In the futuristic, neon-lit cyberpunk landscape, Tokyo has often been a muse for the genre’s aesthetics. This fact was echoed by author William Gibson, who drew inspiration from the 1980s Tokyo for his groundbreaking novel, Neuromancer. Surprisingly, the Blade Runner universe, which shares a similar cyberpunk heritage, had not ventured into depicting Tokyo until now. Titan Comics is set to correct that with their latest series, Blade Runner: Tokyo Nexus.
The narrative arc of Blade Runner: Tokyo Nexus is placed in the year 2015, predating the events of the original movie by four years. The story follows two soldiers, Stix, a combat model Replicant, and Mead, a weathered Marine. They make their way to Tokyo on a quest to track down a former comrade who betrayed their unit. During their search, they establish a detective agency to help in their clandestine pursuit. Their journey plunges them into a tumultuous conflict entangling the Tyrell Corporation, a competing conglomerate known as Cheshire, and the formidable Yakuza.
Below are three preview pages from Blade Runner: Tokyo Nexus Issue #1, provided without lettering.
Meet the Creative Minds Behind Blade Runner: Tokyo Nexus
Since 2019, Titan Comics has been crafting stories set in the Blade Runner world, to much acclaim from both long-time fans and comic book critics alike. The impending series pairs seasoned Blade Runner writer Mellow Brown with emerging talent Kianna Shore, and features the artwork of Rodolfo Taibo, known for his work on Cable.
The inaugural issue of Blade Runner: Tokyo Nexus will be graced by a range of variant covers by different artists. Christian Ward will design the primary cover, with additional contributions from Paul Pope, Andy Belanger, Mariano Taibo, and Fernando Dagnino.
A selection of these variant covers is showcased below, although the cover by Paul Pope is not included in the preview.
Fans can anticipate the release of Blade Runner: Tokyo Nexus #1 in comic shops and online retailers starting July 31, 2024. For those seeking comic book stores, a store locator can be found here.
FAQs about Blade Runner: Tokyo Nexus
- When will Blade Runner: Tokyo Nexus be released?
Blade Runner: Tokyo Nexus #1 is scheduled for release on July 31, 2024. - What is the plot of Blade Runner: Tokyo Nexus?
The plot centers around two soldiers, a Replicant combat model named Stix and a Marine named Mead, who create a detective agency in Tokyo while hunting for a traitor from their unit. - Who is publishing the new Blade Runner comic series?
Titan Comics is the publisher behind the Blade Runner: Tokyo Nexus series. - Can I see the artwork for Blade Runner: Tokyo Nexus before it’s released?
Yes, Titan Comics has released unlettered preview pages for the first issue, as well as several variant covers. - Where can I purchase Blade Runner: Tokyo Nexus comics?
The comics will be available at comic book stores and online retailers. You can use the comic shop locator to find a store near you.
Conclusion
The launch of Blade Runner: Tokyo Nexus by Titan Comics marks an exciting expansion for the Blade Runner universe, bringing a unique twist by setting the story in cyberpunk’s beloved city of Tokyo. The narrative promises fans a dive into the earlier world of Blade Runners, filled with intrigue, betrayal, and the franchise’s classic blend of sci-fi and noir. The collaboration of experienced and new talent in the creative team looks to offer a fresh perspective while maintaining the series’ core themes. Sci-fi enthusiasts and comic book aficionados alike have much to look forward to when this series hits shelves in the summer of 2024.