Skybound and Image Comics, in partnership with Hasbro, have officially unveiled the first appearance of ROM in the Energon Universe.
The beloved space knight makes his long-awaited debut in ROM #1, a surprise comic available exclusively through the newly launched M.A.S.K. #1 Blind Bag program. The standalone issue reunites Void Rivals co-creators Robert Kirkman and Lorenzo De Felici, delivering the first chapter in what appears to be a much larger role for the fan-favorite character.
Since the Energon Universe launched, readers have speculated about whether ROM would eventually join the shared continuity alongside Transformers, G.I. Joe, Void Rivals, and now M.A.S.K. That answer has finally arrived.
“Nothing is more exciting to me than an unexpected comic drop! Getting to a store and finding out a brand-new book exists is just the coolest thing. The only thing that could make it better… is if it was ROM!” said Robert Kirkman. “ROM is such an iconic character with a rich history spanning decades. He’s been a constant request for the Energon Universe. Getting to develop him for the Energon Universe alongside my pal Lorenzo De Felici was an absolute blast and I can’t wait for fans to see our long-range plans for the character! ROM! WOO!!”
The issue introduces ROM alongside his alien companion Carpet as they continue their hunt for the Dire Wraiths. Skybound also confirmed that readers will not have to wait long to see the character again, with future appearances already planned in Void Rivals.
Executive Editor Ben Abernathy celebrated the reveal while teasing what’s next.
“I can finally say it—ROM HAS JOINED THE ENERGON UNIVERSE!” Abernathy said. “And will we see him again? You’ll have to read Void Rivals #33 to find out!”
ROM is not the only surprise hidden inside the M.A.S.K. #1 blind bags.
Skybound revealed two additional exclusive comics that readers may discover. M.A.S.K. Origins #1 collects the first Energon Universe appearances of M.A.S.K. and V.E.N.O.M., while a special advance edition of M.A.S.K. #2 gives fans the opportunity to read the entire second issue weeks ahead of its official release.
The blind bag program also includes all previously solicited covers for M.A.S.K. #1, distributed at varying levels of rarity. For more on M.A.S.K. don’t miss our exclusive interview.
The launch comes alongside the debut of M.A.S.K. #1, which introduces Matt Trakker and his global network of specialists equipped with advanced transforming vehicles. Standing in their way is Miles Mayhem and the forces of V.E.N.O.M., who are racing to acquire dangerous technology capable of threatening the entire planet.
With ROM finally entering the fold, the Energon Universe has added another major piece to its growing roster of heroes, villains, and cosmic mysteries. Judging by the reaction from fans since the reveal, this may be one of the biggest surprises the shared universe has delivered yet.
M.A.S.K. #1 is available now in comic shops and on digital platforms.
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