Mad Cave Studios Unveils Ambitious July 2026 Solicitations Featuring The Last Starfighter Sequel, John Cusack’s Momo, and New Creator-Driven Series
Mad Cave Studios has announced its comprehensive solicitations for July 2026, revealing a robust slate of new series launches, an eagerly anticipated sequel to a beloved 1980s science fiction film, a celebrity-penned graphic novel, and a returning fan-favorite thriller. The lineup underscores Mad Cave’s strategic expansion within the comic book industry, blending nostalgic revivals with innovative, creator-driven narratives and the continued development of its burgeoning Underworld Universe. Among the marquee releases are The Last Starfighter #1, picking up decades after the original film; Mister Nemo #1, a new entry in the Underworld Universe; Cloven, a Western horror series by Dan Panosian; and the hardcover graphic novel Momo, co-written by acclaimed actor John Cusack. These titles, alongside a diverse array of ongoing series, position Mad Cave Studios for a significant presence in the summer 2026 comic market.
The Long-Awaited Return of The Last Starfighter
Leading the charge for July 2026 is The Last Starfighter #1, scheduled for release on July 1st, priced at $4.99. This series marks the official, long-awaited continuation of the iconic 1984 sci-fi film, a movie celebrated for its pioneering use of computer-generated imagery and its enduring cult status. For decades, fans have clamored for a follow-up to the story of Alex Rogan, the small-town teenager who discovered his video game prowess was actually a recruitment tool for an intergalactic defense force. Mad Cave Studios is answering that call, promising a narrative that picks up forty years after the original film’s end credits, propelling Alex Rogan into a new era of cosmic responsibility.
The creative team behind this monumental sequel brings a wealth of experience to the project. Writers Benjamin Raab and Deric A. Hughes, known for their work on popular television series such as Syfy’s WAREHOUSE 13, The CW’s ARROW, and NBC’s QUANTUM LEAP, are tasked with crafting a story that respects the original while expanding its universe. Their television background suggests a strong grasp of character development and serialized storytelling, crucial for a franchise revival. They are joined by artist Willi Roberts, whose prior credits include Witchblade and The Thing on the Doorstep, and colorist Francesco Segala (Dawnrunner, Nights), promising a visually dynamic experience. Crucially, the project is being developed in collaboration with original filmmakers Jonathan Betuel and Paul Davidson, ensuring an authentic extension of the established lore.
The premise sees Alex Rogan, now the leader—and sole remaining member—of the Star League, facing the daunting task of rebuilding the galaxy’s defense against the formidable Xur and the Ko-Dan Armada. This setup immediately raises the stakes, moving Alex beyond his initial hero’s journey into a role of strategic leadership amidst galactic peril. The solicitation promises the introduction of a new cast of Starfighters, alongside fan-favorite faces, and fresh adversaries employed by the Ko-Dan. This blend of new and familiar elements aims to appeal to both long-time fans and a new generation of readers. The original film’s narrative, centered on an ordinary individual rising to extraordinary challenges, resonated deeply with audiences. A spokesperson for Mad Cave Studios, speaking on the condition of anonymity, indicated that the new series aims to capture that same spirit of adventure and discovery, while also exploring the weight of leadership and the legacy of heroism. The revival of such a foundational piece of sci-fi cinema through the comic medium represents a significant investment for Mad Cave, signaling their ambition to tap into established fanbases and deliver high-quality, canonical continuations.
Unveiling the Underworld Universe with Mister Nemo
Another major launch for July 2026 is Mister Nemo #1, scheduled for July 15th at $4.99. This series represents a new chapter in Mad Cave’s burgeoning Underworld Universe, a shared continuity designed to house interconnected narratives and characters. Spearheaded by Mad Cave’s own Mark London on writing duties, with art by Alden Kaye and a cover by Duncan Rouleau, Mister Nemo promises a dive into a world of global conspiracies and hidden powers.
The narrative introduces a brilliant analyst who stumbles upon a vast global conspiracy and is immediately targeted for elimination. Her rescue by the enigmatic Nemo, a figure waging a secret war from beneath the ocean, sets the stage for an adventure into a hidden world of covert power and impossible technology. The central question posed by the series—"can they save the world before it even knows it’s in danger?"—hints at themes of secret societies, technological marvels, and the precarious balance between hidden truths and public ignorance. Mad Cave’s Underworld Universe, while still relatively young, has been strategically developed to provide a rich tapestry for diverse stories, and Mister Nemo appears to be a cornerstone of its expansion into high-stakes espionage and sci-fi mystery. Mark London’s involvement as a writer further emphasizes Mad Cave’s commitment to nurturing its original intellectual properties and building a cohesive narrative framework that can support multiple ongoing titles. This systematic approach to world-building is indicative of a publisher aiming for long-term engagement and a distinctive brand identity in a competitive market.
Dan Panosian and David Ferracci Unleash Cloven
For those seeking a blend of the American frontier and supernatural horror, Cloven #1 (of 4) arrives on July 29th, priced at $4.99. This new limited series is the brainchild of acclaimed creator Dan Panosian, who handles both writing and cover art, with interior art by David Ferracci. Cloven offers a unique premise: a legacy of monsters in the Wild West.
The story centers on June Buckley, a young woman in the twilight days of the American frontier. Her father, a monstrous figure in life, proves to be something even worse in death. June is summoned alongside a group of "treacherous heirs" to claim an inheritance she never sought and may not survive. Their journey forces them to traverse the brutal path that forged her father’s empire, revealing not only hardship but also the moral decay within each companion. At the heart of this dark inheritance lies "Hendido," a creature inextricably linked to her father’s past, and possibly to something far older and more malevolent. As tensions mount and night falls, June confronts the grim reality: her inheritance demands a grisly price.
Dan Panosian is renowned in the comics industry for his distinctive artistic style and compelling storytelling. His previous work has spanned various genres and publishers, earning him a reputation for crafting visually striking and narratively engaging comics. The combination of the rugged, lawless setting of the American frontier with elements of monstrous horror offers a fresh perspective on both genres. This series is poised to attract readers who appreciate dark fantasy, Westerns, and character-driven horror, showcasing Mad Cave’s commitment to supporting creator-owned projects with unique visions. Industry analysts suggest that a high-concept, creator-driven series like Cloven can significantly bolster a publisher’s reputation for innovation and quality.
John Cusack Ventures into Graphic Novels with Momo
Perhaps one of the most unexpected, yet intriguing, announcements for July 2026 is the release of the Momo hardcover graphic novel on July 8th, priced at $29.99. This project brings acclaimed actor John Cusack into the world of comic book writing, collaborating with celebrated international artist Ignacio Noé. Momo is described as a wild, genre-bending road trip with cosmic stakes, offering a unique blend of pulp sci-fi, occult mystery, and dark humor.
The narrative follows two fugitives who form an uneasy alliance on a mission tied to none other than legendary entertainer Jackie Gleason. The unexpected mention of Gleason adds a layer of surrealism and intrigue, hinting at the unconventional nature of the story. As the fugitives find themselves increasingly out of their depth, they encounter bizarre situations, uncover buried secrets, and confront forces far beyond their control. The story promises a journey where reality itself begins to fray, and loyalties are tested, culminating in a mission that could either save the world or lead to its spectacular demise.
John Cusack’s involvement is a notable draw, potentially attracting film enthusiasts and a broader audience beyond traditional comic readers. His reputation for starring in a diverse range of films, often with quirky or unconventional narratives, aligns well with the "genre-bending" description of Momo. Ignacio Noé’s status as a "celebrated international artist" suggests a visually rich and distinctive artistic style that will complement the narrative’s surreal elements. This collaboration represents a bold move for Mad Cave, leveraging celebrity appeal while delivering a conceptually ambitious original graphic novel. The publisher’s decision to invest in such a distinctive project highlights a willingness to push creative boundaries and explore diverse storytelling avenues.
The Return of Pop Kill with Seasonal Flair
Fans of high-stakes corporate espionage will be pleased with the re-release of Pop Kill #1, featuring a new Seasonal Flavors Amanda Conner Fourth of July Themed Variant cover, available on July 1st for $6.99. This re-issue brings the best-selling first issue of the series back into print, suggesting a sustained demand for the title.
Pop Kill presents a world where two dominant, multi-billion-dollar soda companies are owned by former conjoined twins who have become bitter rivals, each intent on destroying the other. This unique premise fuels a narrative filled with assassins, saboteurs, and spies clashing in a brutal corporate war. The story delves into themes of sibling rivalry, unchecked ambition, and the dirty tactics employed in the pursuit of power. The original story is by Dave Johnson and Jimmy Palmiotti, with art by Juan Santa Cruz and colors by Brian Reber. The new variant cover by Amanda Conner, a highly popular and influential artist in the comic book industry, is likely to attract both new readers and collectors.
The re-release with a special themed cover underscores Mad Cave’s strategy of revisiting successful titles and offering fresh incentives for engagement. It also highlights the enduring appeal of the creative team, with Palmiotti and Conner being a well-regarded duo known for their dynamic and often humorous approach to action-packed stories. The concept of corporate warfare, especially one driven by such a personal and intense rivalry, offers a fertile ground for thrilling narratives, and Pop Kill has evidently resonated strongly enough to warrant this high-profile re-introduction.
A Spectrum of Ongoing Adventures and Diverse Offerings
Beyond these major new launches and re-issues, Mad Cave Studios’ July 2026 solicitations also include a robust selection of continuing series, ensuring a broad appeal across various genres. Readers can look forward to new installments of:
- Junk Punch
- Babylon Cove
- Gatchaman
- Flash Gordon
- Speed Racer
- War Wolf
- Dick Tracy
- Terrorbytes
- Dog Tag
- Pretty Hate Machine
- Land Of Never
- Is Ted OK?
This diverse roster demonstrates Mad Cave’s commitment to supporting a wide range of storytelling, from classic licensed properties like Gatchaman, Flash Gordon, Speed Racer, and Dick Tracy, to original horror, fantasy, and mystery titles. The inclusion of titles like Is Ted OK? (a title whose enigmatic name alone piques curiosity) highlights the publisher’s willingness to experiment with unique concepts. The strategy of maintaining a strong backlist and ongoing series alongside high-profile new releases ensures a consistent flow of content for retailers and readers, solidifying Mad Cave’s position as a multifaceted publisher.
Mad Cave Studios’ Strategic Vision and Industry Impact
The July 2026 solicitations paint a clear picture of Mad Cave Studios’ strategic vision: a dynamic blend of leveraging established intellectual properties, nurturing original creator-owned content, and expanding its internal universes. By securing licenses for beloved franchises like The Last Starfighter and classic characters like Flash Gordon and Dick Tracy, Mad Cave taps into powerful veins of nostalgia and pre-existing fanbases. Simultaneously, its investment in original series like Mister Nemo (part of the Underworld Universe) and Cloven, along with the unique Momo graphic novel, showcases a dedication to fostering new voices and diverse narratives.
This balanced approach is crucial in the contemporary comic book market, which demands both familiar comfort and innovative freshness. The emphasis on strong creative teams, including established writers and artists as well as unexpected collaborations (like John Cusack), further enhances the appeal and perceived quality of their offerings. Industry observers note that Mad Cave Studios has been steadily growing its market share by consistently delivering high-quality products and a clear editorial direction. These July 2026 releases are expected to significantly boost Mad Cave’s profile, attracting a wider demographic of readers, from long-time comic aficionados to casual fans drawn in by familiar names or intriguing concepts. The focus on both monthly series and substantial graphic novels also caters to different reading preferences and purchasing habits.
The timing of these releases in the summer of 2026 positions Mad Cave to capitalize on increased leisure reading and potential convention buzz. The broad thematic range, spanning sci-fi, horror, mystery, and corporate thrillers, ensures that the publisher is not pigeonholed into a single genre, allowing it to appeal to a diverse readership. The commitment to building out shared universes, as seen with Mister Nemo, is a long-term strategy that can yield interconnected narratives and sustained reader interest over many years, creating a loyal following.
In conclusion, Mad Cave Studios’ July 2026 solicitations represent a confident and expansive declaration of intent. With the highly anticipated continuation of The Last Starfighter, the intriguing debut of John Cusack’s Momo, the chilling Western horror of Cloven, the conspiracy-laden Mister Nemo, and the vibrant return of Pop Kill, coupled with a robust slate of ongoing titles, Mad Cave is poised to deliver a summer lineup that is both ambitious and diverse. This strategic blend of nostalgia, innovation, and strong creative talent firmly establishes Mad Cave Studios as a significant and growing force in the comic book publishing landscape.
