Skybound and Image Comics, in collaboration with Hasbro, have announced an open-to-order release of ROM Special #1. The issue reprints the surprise first appearance of the pop culture icon in the Energon Universe.
The release will arrive alongside M.A.S.K. Origins #1. Both issues originally appeared through the M.A.S.K. #1 Blind Bag program and will reach comic book shops on August 26, 2026.
Robert Kirkman and Lorenzo De Felici Reunite for ROM
Void Rivals co-creators Robert Kirkman and Lorenzo De Felici reunited to bring ROM into the Energon Universe. Kirkman, known for Invincible and The Walking Dead, writes the standalone special, while Red Roots artist De Felici handles the artwork.
The issue introduces the legendary space knight to Skybound’s expanding shared universe. ROM’s arrival adds another major Hasbro character to the growing Energon Universe lineup.
ROM Special #1 Gets an Expanded Cover Lineup
ROM Special #1 features a main cover by Lorenzo De Felici. The variant program includes open-to-order covers by Christian Ward (Killing Red Sonja), E.J. Su (Blood & Thunder), and Nick Bradshaw (Wolverine and X-Men) with Jim Charalampidis (Amazing Spider-Man).
The issue will also feature a foil, die-cut mask cover by John Amor (Phantom 2040). A blank sketch cover will also be available for fans and collectors.
ROM and Carpet Will Return in Void Rivals
ROM’s Energon Universe story will continue beyond the special. Fans can expect to see more of ROM and his alien companion, “Carpet,” in upcoming issues of Void Rivals.
The new open-to-order release gives readers another opportunity to experience ROM’s surprise debut. ROM Special #1and M.A.S.K. Origins #1 arrive at comic book shops on August 26, 2026.
