In a notable development for enthusiasts of tabletop gaming and fantasy lore, Dark Horse Comics has announced an exciting new partnership with Hasbro’s Wizards of the Coast. This collaboration will introduce a fresh slate of graphic novels and comic books inspired by two of Wizards of the Coast’s flagship intellectual properties: Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons. The forthcoming series will feature original narratives, expanding the rich universes of these beloved franchises.
A Storied Partnership Reimagined
Dark Horse Comics and Wizards of the Coast have enjoyed a longstanding relationship, dating back to their initial collaboration on the renowned 1990s comic series Magic: The Gathering: Gerrard’s Quest. This partnership has endured through the decades, marked by notable projects including the recent Stranger Things and Dungeons & Dragons miniseries that premiered in July 2021.
With a history rooted in successful joint ventures, this latest announcement promises to rejuvenate their collaboration. The new publishing line aims to deliver an array of original content that will delve deeper into the lore of Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons. According to Dark Horse Comics, the new series and graphic novels will be released beginning in the summer of 2025, with the initial wave set to debut during that period.
Expanding the Universes
The new line is set to comprise both comic book series and graphic novels, alongside a selection of art books. While details remain sparse, Dark Horse has hinted that the initiative could extend beyond the first set of releases, potentially continuing into 2026. Marianne James, Senior Vice President of Licensed Consumer Products at Hasbro, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “We anticipate a lot of excitement to come with new artwork and creative storytelling.”
This publishing programme is poised to continue the legacy of Dark Horse and Wizards of the Coast’s previous collaborations while introducing new dimensions to their respective worlds. Though specifics about the line up are yet to be disclosed, the announcement marks a significant moment for fans eager to explore new stories within these iconic realms.
Marking a New Era
This new publishing initiative also underscores Wizards of the Coast’s ongoing commitment to expanding and enriching its intellectual properties. The forthcoming series represents the first major project announced under the leadership of John Hight, who was appointed President of Wizards of the Coast and Digital Gaming in mid-July 2024. Hight, a former Blizzard executive, brings a fresh perspective to the role and is expected to drive further innovations in the company’s approach to IP licensing.
The new comics line, while missing the 50th anniversary celebrations of Dungeons & Dragons—which commenced in March 2023—will nonetheless contribute to the broader year-long festivities marking the milestone. This effort aligns with Wizards of the Coast’s strategy to maintain relevance and engagement with their audience through diverse and creative storytelling.
As fans await further details about the forthcoming series, Dark Horse Comics and Wizards of the Coast have promised that more information will be revealed in the coming months. The anticipation surrounding the new publications is already building, with enthusiasts eager to discover how these new narratives will expand upon the rich legacies of Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons.
In summary, the new collaboration between Dark Horse Comics and Wizards of the Coast heralds an exciting chapter for both franchises. With a history of successful projects and a promising array of new content on the horizon, this partnership is set to deliver engaging new experiences for fans and readers alike. As the summer of 2025 approaches, attention will undoubtedly turn to the first releases of this eagerly awaited series, which promises to bring fresh storytelling and artistry to the beloved worlds of Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons.
