It is remarkable to note that two decades have passed since Marvel first introduced the iconic Planet Hulk storyline. This groundbreaking narrative saw the Hulk transported across the cosmos to fight for his survival on the war-torn planet of Sakaar, ultimately transforming from a mere gladiator to a revered king. The repercussions of this saga have significantly shaped the Marvel Comics universe, paving the way for the notable World War Hulk crossover in 2007, and its impact continues to resonate within the Marvel Cinematic Universe to this day.
In recognition of the 20th anniversary of Planet Hulk, Marvel has reunited some of the original creative team, including writer Greg Pak, artist Carlo Pagulayan, and editor Mark Paniccia, to craft a new saga set on Sakaar. Return to Planet Hulk #1 is a one-shot special that unfolds during the events of the original storyline, promising to enrich an already modern classic.
To delve deeper into how this special connects with the original run, IGN reached out to Pak for insights. An exclusive preview of Return to Planet Hulk #1 is available in the slideshow gallery below, and we invite you to read on for further details:
Pak reflected on the profound impact Planet Hulk has had on the Marvel Universe. “It’s always a bit presumptuous for a writer to discuss what makes their work popular, ha ha!” Pak stated. “However, we certainly wouldn’t be where we are without the incredible contributions from the artists, colorists, and letterers who worked alongside us, including Carlo Pagulayan, Aaron Lopresti, and others.”
He further explained, “There’s always a captivating element in a story where the mightiest hero emerges as the ultimate outcast and underdog. Additionally, it embodies a struggle where a character often perceived as a monster rises to become a true hero. This inherent tragedy—the price of righteous anger—is a crucial aspect of its appeal. Readers resonate with its emotional rawness, and I extend my gratitude to all the writers and artists who laid the foundation for this narrative.”
Pak confirmed that he was the impetus behind Return to Planet Hulk, having contacted Marvel as the 20th anniversary approached with an idea to revisit the original narrative. “The world of Planet Hulk always lingers in the back of my mind,” Pak admitted. “Upon realizing the anniversary was approaching, I reached out to Marvel. Mark Paniccia, the brilliant editor from the original run, responded, and we were able to get this one-shot approved. The challenge was finding the right moment within the tightly woven original storyline where an untold tale could fit seamlessly.”
He elaborated, “Ultimately, we found an ideal moment shortly after the conclusion of issue #95, where the Hulk has liberated the enslaved gladiators but has yet to embrace his role as a leader. This creates an opportunity to explore his conflicted ideas and the possibility of refusing the call to adventure, amidst the shadowy depths of the Twisted Wood.”
As eager as Pak was to return to Sakaar, he emphasized the importance of collaborating with his original team. “This was essential,” Pak remarked. “Mark and I were inseperable during the original run, and it was impossible for me to conceive of this project without him. Having Carlo, who illustrated the first four issues, back on board for this new one-shot was surreal—like time traveling back two decades.”
While the premise allows for reconnecting with key characters from the initial saga, readers should not anticipate appearances from major figures like the Red King or Hulk’s betrothed, Caiera. Given the timeline of this one-shot, they are not feasible characters for this particular narrative.
“The current story does not include Caiera or the Red King since it occurs earlier in the epic,” Pak explained. “However, we will delve into an entire community of creatures on Sakaar that was not deeply previously explored, adding new layers to how the Hulk is perceived and how he sees himself.”
Return to Planet Hulk #1 is set to debut on October 8, 2025. Preorder your copy at your local comic shop.
In related Hulk news, Mark Ruffalo recently disclosed that he has not yet read a script for Spider-Man: Brand New Day, despite rumors circulating about the Hulk’s potential appearance in the sequel.
Based on reporting by Jesse Schedeen. Read the full story at IGN.