Energon Universe Special 2026 Unveiled with Variant Covers

Skybound, Image & Hasbro collaborate on all-new stories from TRANSFORMERS, G.I. JOE, VOID RIVALS, and M.A.S.K.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 7:06pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A striking abstract illustration composed of bold, angular shapes in primary colors, conceptually representing the diverse cast of characters and stories featured in the Energon Universe Special 2026.The Energon Universe Special 2026 promises an action-packed introduction to new stories and characters in this expanding shared comic book world.Los Angeles Today

Skybound and Image Comics, in collaboration with Hasbro, have revealed the lineup of variant covers for the highly anticipated Energon Universe Special 2026. This special issue will serve as the introductory chapter of the upcoming new Energon Universe series M.A.S.K. and feature all-new stories from the worlds of TRANSFORMERS, G.I. JOE, VOID RIVALS, and M.A.S.K. from top comics talent.

Why it matters

The Energon Universe is the crown jewel of the historic collaboration between Hasbro and Skybound, introducing a brand-new era of the TRANSFORMERS and G.I. JOE franchises in one shared comic book universe. This special issue will provide a perfect jumping-on point for new readers as well as a can't-miss experience for long-time fans.

The details

The Energon Universe Special 2026 will be available with an exclusive cover as part of Free Comic Book Day on May 2, 2026, and then released in comic book shops on May 6, 2026 with all-new variant covers. The special issue includes four all-new stories from the worlds of TRANSFORMERS, G.I. JOE, VOID RIVALS, and M.A.S.K. written by top comics talent like Robert Kirkman, Joshua Williamson, and Dan Watters, with art by Jason Howard, Tom Reilly, Conor Hughes, and Pye Parr.

  • The Energon Universe Special 2026 will be available with an exclusive cover as part of Free Comic Book Day on Saturday, May 2, 2026.
  • The retail version of Energon Universe Special 2026 will be available for purchase in comic book shops on Wednesday, May 6, 2026.

The players

Skybound

A leading entertainment company that collaborates with Hasbro on the Energon Universe comic book series.

Image Comics

A comic book publisher that is collaborating with Skybound and Hasbro on the Energon Universe Special 2026.

Hasbro

A leading games, IP and toy company that is partnering with Skybound and Image Comics on the Energon Universe comic book universe.

Robert Kirkman

A writer who is penning stories for the TRANSFORMERS, VOID RIVALS, and Energon Universe Special 2026.

Joshua Williamson

A writer who is penning a story for the G.I. JOE series in the Energon Universe Special 2026.

Dan Watters

A writer who is penning a story for the new M.A.S.K. series in the Energon Universe Special 2026.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The release of the Energon Universe Special is an exciting annual event in the E.U. We bring the best talent together to tell exciting short stories that help seed the future of the Energon Universe...and the stories get more exciting each year!”

— Ben Abernathy, Executive Editor

What’s next

The Energon Universe Special 2026 will serve as the introductory chapter for the new M.A.S.K. series launching in June 2026, setting the stage for further adventures in the Energon Universe.

The takeaway

The Energon Universe Special 2026 represents an exciting collaboration between top comics talent and iconic Hasbro properties, delivering a can't-miss experience for longtime fans and new readers alike as the shared universe continues to expand.