We are in an exciting new chapter of the Godzilla universe, specifically the Kai-Sei era, which dives a bit deeper into the world of the King of the Monsters. Godzilla: Escape the Deadzone is one such tale, where writers Ethan S. Parker and Griffin Sheridan along with artist Pablo Tunica focus on a half kaiju, half man in an “uninhabitable” Pacific Northwest following destruction by Godzilla.

Inside the new IDW Godzilla universe, there exists a mystery larger than any other… what is the Deadzone? Inhabitants of this new world know the Deadzone to be a walled-off portion of the Pacific Northwest, sequestered after the most disastrous Godzilla attack the country has ever faced. The government would have its citizens believe that nothing is still alive inside the Deadzone… but do you believe that?

There are stories of a man. Or rather… a half kaiju, half man… who travels freely throughout the Deadzone. Some say he can even kill a kaiju. Some say… he’s not the only of his kind.

Following the announcement of the Kai-Sei era of Godzilla, I was excited to jump into the main series. I was however a bit hesitant to try the other titles in this new universe, including Godzilla: Escape the Deadzone, but I took a chance and damn I’m so glad I did. Not really knowing what to expect was part of the thrill, and that’s exactly why I liked the premiere issue as much as I did.

Ethan S. Parker and Griffin Sheridan have crafted a new Godzilla story that combines a post-apocalyptic backdrop with a mutant monster vibe. Unlike the massive kaiju battles many have come to expect from the long history of the Godzilla franchise, this is more of a survival tale for us craving something fresh in the universe. Escape the Deadzone follows along with a nameless wanderer trying to navigate a hostile, unforgiving world. While not a really groundbreaking premise, it is gripping and pack adrenaline-fueled action, making for an outstanding start.

The artwork by Pablo Tunica brings a grim and gritty atmosphere to Godzilla: Escape the Deadzone. His unique illustrations and character designs immersed me in this inhospitable world, creating a desolate, end-of-the-world vibe. You can almost feel the action in each panel, and the gruesome illustrations left me squirming in the best way possible. Tunica leaves it all on the page.

Ethan S. Parker and Griffin Sheridan craft a new kaiju tale, pushing the boundaries of what I was expecting. Along with Pablo Tunica’s gritty artwork, the creative team delivered a fantastic addition to the Godzilla comics legacy, where we can expect the unexpected. Godzilla: Escape the Deadzone is a testament to why I shouldn’t underestimate series like these. It is a thrilling must-read for those looking for more from the Godzilla universe.

Godzilla: Escape the Deadzone #1 hits local comic shops on August 6, 2025 (FOC: June 30) from IDW Publishing.