Defenders, Decepticons and Dredd. Welcome to Wednesday Comics. Each week, we will highlight our Comic of the Week, along with other notable releases, classic favourites, and industry news. Please note the links to Forbidden Planet are not affilate links, and we receive no revenue from them. They are provided as an alternative if you don’t have access to a local comic shop. You can also pick up most of these books digitally from a number of online sources.
If you want to send any comics or details of any comic related events we should feature, feel free to reach out to me at keith@geekybrummie.com or comics@geekybrummie.com
Now on with the comics…
Defenders of the Earth: Dark Destiny #1
MAD CAVE STUDIOS
By Dan DiDio, Alex Sanchez, Juancho Vélez and Carlos M. Mangual
Buy from Forbidden Planet – Defenders of the Earth: Dark Destiny #1 (Link)
THE DEFENDERS ON TRIAL! Mongo is a shattered empire — and it’s at least partly Flash Gordon’s fault. The Defenders of the Earth may have saved their home planet, but Mongo paid a hefty price for Ming the Merciless’s games. Now the toll’s come due — and it’s the Defenders who will pay it. And while the Defenders face their former friends and allies, their offspring face challenges of their own. Determined to find Rick’s missing mother, Dale, the Gordon child and his friends K’Shin, Zuffy, LJ, and Jedda investigate a former secret base held by the son of Ming. Kro-Tan may be gone, but the danger is not. A fan-favorite villain goes after the Second Gen Defenders! Writer Dan DiDio and artist Alex Sanchez pick up the beloved characters from the classic animated series and spin a whole new adventure!
Defenders of the Earth: Dark Destiny #1 is a bold, nostalgic yet modern revival for pulp icons Flash Gordon, The Phantom, Mandrake, and Lothar, and as a lifelong fan of these heroes, and I’m thrilled that Mad Cave Studios is reintroducing them to a new generation. As someone who grew up loving these characters, I’m delighted to see them treated with respect yet reimagined with fresh stakes. The Phantom’s stoicism, Flash Gordon’s burden of leadership, Mandrake’s mystique, and Lothar’s strength all resonate within these pages, reminding me why these characters have endured for so long. This first issue doesn’t just rely on nostalgia—it builds a foundation for a saga that feels urgent and relevant, while still honouring the characters pulp roots.
Transformers #27
IMAGE COMICS • SKYBOUND
By Robert Kirkman, Dan Mora, Mike Spicer and Rus Wooton
Buy from Forbidden Planet – Transformers #27 (Link)
MEGATRON STRIKES BACK! The Decepticons make their move to rescue one of their most powerful members from the Autobots.
Transformers #27 promises to be a high-stakes chapter that pushes the Energon Universe into thrilling new territory. Written by Kirkman, with art by Mora, this issue delivers cinematic action and emotional depth. The story centers on Megatron striking back, as the Decepticons launch a daring mission to rescue one of their most powerful members from Autobot control. The dynamic visuals and bold palette heighten the tension, while the script balances explosive battles with character-driven drama. It’s a gripping continuation that promises escalating conflict and unforgettable consequences for the Robots in Disguise.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #13
IDW PUBLISHING
By Gene Luen Yang, Freddie E. Williams II, Andrew Dalhouse and Shawn Lee
Buy from Forbidden Planet – Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #13 (Link)
A new era of TMNT begins! Acclaimed Eisner-winning writer Gene Luen Yang (American Born Chinese, Avatar: The Last Airbender, Superman Smashes the Klan) takes on writing duties for TMNT! Following the stunning events of TMNT #12, the Turtles face a different New York… one where they are viewed as heroes! The celebration will be short-lived as new threats vie for control. The mutant yak Papa Beng is determined to widen the power base for his gang. Yet little does he know that he and other TMNT villains are being stalked by a powerful new assassin… Ujigami!
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #13 kicks off a bold new era, blending heartfelt family dynamics with fresh threats in New York. With the new incoming creative team of Gene Luen Yang and Freddie E. Williams II, this issue follows the Turtles as they step into a city that now views them as heroes. Yang’s script emphasizes brotherly banter and family bonds, while Williams’ always energetic visuals keep the action lively. With new villains like Papa Beng and the assassin Ujigami lurking, this debut promises humour, heart, and danger in equal measure.
Miss Truesdale and the Rise of Man #1
DARK HORSE COMICS
By Mike Mignola, Jesse Lonergan and Clem Robins
Buy from Forbidden Planet – Miss Truesdale and the Rise of Man #1 (Link)
The gladiator Anum Yassa wanders the forest to learn about her lives — past, present, and future. But she isn’t a hero to all, as one darker entity will hunt her until she can be stopped — and the fate of man stopped with her.
Miss Truesdale and the Rise of Man #1 is a hauntingly beautiful new tale from the mind of Mike Mignola. With evocative art by Lonergan, this debut issue blends gothic atmosphere with mythic storytelling. Mignola introduces Augusta Truesdale, a Victorian woman whose fate intertwines with ancient forces, pulling her into a cosmic struggle that spans eras. Lonergan’s stark, textured visuals perfectly complement the unsettling tone. This first chapter promises a dark, layered journey—one that expands Mignola’s universe with mystery, history, and supernatural dread.
2000AD Annual 2026 HC
2000AD • REBELLION
By Rob Williams. Joe Currie, Rob Steen, Gordon Rennie, Colin MacNeil, Ellie de Ville, Steve Dillon, Tom Frame, Jim Alexander, John Hicklenton, Gordon Robson, Tom Eglington, Staz Johnson, C. Smith, Glenn Fabry, Jack Potter, Hayden Nash, Dylan Teague, Steve Potter, Garth Ennis, Martin Edmond, Roger Langridge, Alex de Campi, Silvia Califano, Matt Soffe, Maura McHugh and Petitecreme
Buy from 2000AD Webshop – 2000AD Annual 2026 HC (Link)
The 2000 AD Annual returns just in time for 2000 AD’s 49th year.
This celebratory Annual contains several all-new stories, featuring Judge Dredd, Rogue Trooper, and PSI, Anderson. The book also contains a few 2000 AD classics from the thrill-archive which have never been reprinted before.
The creative line-up bringing their talents to this tome include Rob Williams, Maura McHugh, Joe Currie, T.C. Eglington, Staz Johnson, Crom, Jake Lynch.
The 2000AD Annual 2026 returns for another year with a powerhouse celebration of British comics, brimming with talent and legacy. I’ve already sung this books praises on a recent issue of the podcast, but it launches in the US today and you’ve still got time here in the UK to grab a copy for your Christmas stocking.
This oversized collection brings together an astonishing roster of creators—Rob Williams, Joe Currie, Rob Steen, Gordon Rennie, Colin MacNeil, Ellie de Ville, Steve Dillon, Tom Frame, Jim Alexander, John Hicklenton, Gordon Robson, Tom Eglington, Staz Johnson, Glenn Fabry, Garth Ennis, Roger Langridge, Alex de Campi, Silvia Califano, Maura McHugh, and many more—each contributing to the rich tapestry of 2000AD’s mythos. From Judge Dredd’s uncompromising justice to surreal, satirical strips, the annual balances nostalgia with fresh storytelling.
Visually, the book is a feast: MacNeil’s gritty realism, Hicklenton’s visceral intensity, and Califano’s sleek dynamism showcase the breadth of styles that define 2000AD. The writing ranges from sharp political allegory to dark humor, reminding us why this anthology remains a cornerstone of British comics. For longtime fans and newcomers alike, the 2026 Annual is both a tribute to the past and a bold step into the future.
Your Local Comics Shops
Britain has some of the best comics shops in the world. This updated lists features just a few of the shops you can pop in to for your geek fix. Check out you own local shops and if they don’t appear on this list let me know and we can add them.
WORLDS APART BIRMINGHAM (part of FPI)
Birmingham’s premier comic book store and Pokestop.
Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 09:30 – 17:00
Wednesday, Friday: 09:30 – 18:00
Saturday: 09:30 – 18:00
Sunday: 11:00 – 17:00
14-16 Smallbrook Queensway, Birmingham B5 4EN Tel: 0121 643 0143
Website: Forbidden Planet International and Twitter: @WorldsApart_Bir
FORBIDDEN PLANET (BIRMINGHAM)
Graphic novel/comic store with merchandise & T-shirts, plus character figures & toys.
Monday to Saturday: 09:30 – 17:30
Sunday: 11:00 – 17:00
74 Bull St, Birmingham B4 6AD Tel: 0121 236 3026
Website: Forbidden Planet and Twitter: @ForbiddenPlanet
GOSH! COMICS (LONDON)
A mean little comics shop in the heart of London.
Open Daily: 10:30 – 19.00
1 Berwick St, London W1F 0DR Tel: 0207 437 0187
Website: Gosh! Comics and Twitter: @GoshComics
OK COMICS (LEEDS)
Twenty Year Old, Eisner Award Nominated Comic Book Shop in the beating heart of Leeds City Centre, UK.
Open Monday to Saturday: 11.00 – 17.00
Sunday: 11.00 – 15.00
19 Thornton’s Arcade, Briggate, Leeds LS1 6LQ Tel: 0113 246 9366
Website: OK Comics and Twitter: @OKComics
PAGE 45 (NOTTINGHAM)
UK Comic Shop created & curated since 1994 by Stephen Holland, Comics Laureate 2021-23.
Open Monday to Saturday: 09.00 – 18.00
Sunday: 11.00 – 16.00
Closed on Bank Holiday Mondays, Easter Sunday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
9 Market St, Nottingham NG1 6HY Tel: (0115) 9508045
Website: Page 45 and Twitter: @PageFortyFive
TRAVELLING MAN (VARIOUS)
Travelling Man Is The UK’s Friendliest Comic & Games Shop Since 1991. Shop Online Now! Explore The Rich Genres & Worlds That Games, Comics & Independent Press Have To Offer. Since 1991.
Open Monday to Saturday: 10.00 – 18.00
Sunday: 11.00 -17.00
LEEDS
32 Central Road, Leeds LS1 6DE Tel: 0113 245 0822
YORK
74 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LF Tel: 01904628787
NEWCASTLE
43 Grainger Street, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 5JE Tel: 0191 261 4993
MANCHESTER
4 Dale Street, Manchester M1 1JW Tel: 0161 237 1877
Website: Travelling Man and Twitter: @TravellingManUK
MEGA CITY COMICS (LONDON)
Mega City Comics, was established in 1981, initially as a mail-order business, supplying comics, graphic novels, and collecting supplies. After 6 years of mail-order and trading through the comic marts, we opened our shop in Camden Town in 1987.
Open Monday to Friday: 11.00 -18.00
Saturday: 10.30 – 18.00
Sunday: 11.00 – 18.00
18 Inverness Street, Camden Town, London NW1 7HJ Tel: 020 7485 9320
Website: Mega City Comics and Twitter: @MegaCityComics
MEGA CITY COMICS LIVES
Mega City Comics was aquired by Forbidden Planet in February 2025 and will now continue to be one of the best comic shops in the UK.
CLOSE ENCOUNTERS (VARIOUS)
A trio of comic shops in Bedford, Northampton and Peterborough.
BEDFORD
20 Allhallows, Bedford MK40 1LJ Tel: 01234 270777
Open Monday to Friday: 10:00 – 17.30
Saturday: 09:30 – 17:30
Sunday: 11:00 – 16:00
NORTHAMPTON
29 Abington Square, Northampton NN1 4AE Tel: 01604 602311
Monday: CLOSED
Open Tuesday: 10:00 – 17:30
Wednesday: 10:00 – 19.00
Thursday to Friday: 10:00 – 17:30
Saturday: 09:30 – 17:30
Sunday: 11:00 – 16:00
PETERBOROUGH
25 Broadway, Peterborough PE1 1SQ Tel: 01733 892827
Monday: CLOSED
Open Tuesday: 10:30 – 17:30
Wednesday: 10:30 – 18:00
Thursday to Friday : 10:30 – 17:30
Saturday: 09:30 – 17:30
Sunday: CLOSED
Website: Close Encounters and Twitter: @CEncountersUK
THAT COMIC SHOP (PRESTON)
Retailers of new Comics weekly, Magic the Gathering Card Games, Board Games, Toys, T-Shirts plus loads more.
Monday: CLOSED
Open Tuesday to Thursday: 10:00 – 17:00
Friday: 10:00 – 21:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 16:00
Sunday: CLOSED
116 Friargate, Preston PR1 2EE Tel: 01772 204287
Website: That Comic Shop and Twitter: @ThatComicShop
PARADOX COMICS (DORSET)
Comic book shop in Dorset, dealing in graphic novels, statues, action figures, card games, limited edition comics and more
Monday: Closed
Open Tuesday to Friday: 10:30 – 17:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00
Sunday: 11:00 – 16:00
19 High Street, Poole, Dorset BH15 1AB Tel: 01202 661346
Website: Paradox Comics and Twitter: @ParadoxComicsUK
WAKEFIELD COMICS 616 (WAKEFIELD)
Comic Book Shop in the centre of Wakefield. Stocking the latest comics direct from the US.
Open Monday: 9:00 – 17:00
Tuesday: 9:00 – 16:30
Wednesday to Saturday: 9:00 – 17:00
Sunday: CLOSED
3 The Springs, Wakefield West Yorkshire WF1 1PU Tel: 01924 375234
Website: Wakefield Comics 616 and Twitter: @wakeycomics616
COMIC BOOK GUYS (BELFAST)
Comic Book Guys – Northern Ireland’s newest independent comic book store also stocking movie memorabilia, toys & other collectibles… excelsior!
Open Monday to Saturday: 10.00 to 17.00
Sunday: CLOSED
130 Great Victoria Street, Belfast BT2 7BG Tel: 02890 080169
Website: Comic Book Guys and Twitter: @comicbookguysni
RAYGUN COMICS (RICHMOND)
A welcoming and friendly comic book shop. Comics, toys, books, games and merchandise for all ages.
Open Monday to Saturday: 10:00 – 18:00
Sunday: 11:00 – 17:00
26 Red Lion Street, Richmond TW9 1RW Tel: 0208 948 8476
Website: Raygun Comics and Twitter: @Raygun_comics
DAVE’S COMCIS (BRIGHTON)
Dave’s Comics, The Graphic Novel Shop.
Open Monday to Friday: 10:00 – 18:00
Saturday: 09:30 – 18:00
Sunday: 11.00 – 17:00
5 Sydney St, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4EN Tel: 01273 691012
Website: Dave’s Comics and Twitter: @DavesComics
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