“Record-Breaking Sales: Transformers #1 Nears 200K – Duke #1 Set to Rewrite History?”

Transformers #1 is on the brink of selling 200,000 units worldwide after three printings, solidifying its position as the best-selling launch of any Hasbro-related comic to date. Back in September, BleedingCool.com highlighted the historic success of Robert Kirkman’s Energon Universe, declaring Transformers #1 as the best-selling comic book launch from Hasbro in the 21st century. This groundbreaking achievement has shifted the landscape of comic universes, challenging the dominance of Marvel and DC.

Now, the spotlight turns to Joshua Williamson, Tom Reilly, and Jordie Bellaire’s Duke #1, poised to make its mark in modern comics history. Transformers #1’s unprecedented success, coupled with Kirkman and Lorenzo De Felici’s Void Rivals #1 selling nearly 150,000 copies, sets the stage for Duke #1 to potentially rewrite the records.

Transformers #1 has outperformed even the comic launches promoted by Hasbro in the 1980s, reaching close to 200,000 units. Kirkman and De Felici continue their success with Void Rivals #1, a new IP for Hasbro that has sold impressively in the 2023 market. Now, Duke #1 introduces G.I. Joe and Cobra characters to the Energon Universe, aiming to surpass the 100K pre-order mark.

If Duke #1 achieves this milestone, the Energon Universe will not only become the highest-selling shared universe launch since DC’s New 52 in 2011 but also the largest non-superhero shared universe launch in modern comics history. Skybound has incentivized retailers with video incentives and high-ratio offerings like a 1:100 foil cover by Jonboy Meyers and a 1:250 by David Mack.

While retailers have kept details under wraps as per Skybound’s request, insider information suggests that G.I. Joe launches, including Cobra Commander #1 in January, will bring significant surprises for Transformers fans. This anticipation raises the possibility of Duke #1 generating substantial hype, especially as spoilers inevitably leak closer to the on-sale date.

Duke #1 hits comic shops on Wednesday, December 27th, followed by Cobra Commander #1 on Wednesday, January 17th. Stay tuned for more updates on both books and the unfolding success of the Energon Universe.