Fear Planet

Hey there, fellow Squaxx Dek Thargo!

Can you believe it’s been decades since the near-universally beloved British sci-fi mag 2000AD first crash-landed on our earthly doorsteps in 1977? What a time it was. A year that not only introduced us to the thrill-packed pages chock full of some of the greatest sequential sci-fi stories of all time, but also showcased some of the most visually arresting covers that the comic book realm has ever seen.

1977 wasn’t just about the disco, bell bottoms, or the debut of Star Wars on the silver screen. For many of us, it was about that rush of excitement every time a new prog appeared on the newsstands, the vibrant covers promising otherworldly adventures and rebellious futures.

Choosing just ten covers from such an iconic year was no easy feat, my friends. But after much reminiscing, a few nostalgic tears, and perhaps one or two heated debates with fellow fans (all in good fun, of course!), I’ve managed to curate a list that encapsulates the sheer artistic brilliance and revolutionary storytelling of 2000AD’s debut year.

So, whether you’re an old-school fan looking to take a visual stroll down memory lane, or a newer reader curious about the roots of this groundbreaking anthology, this list promises a journey through the vivid tapestry of 2000AD’s artistry. Prepare to be amazed, and let’s dive into the ten best covers of 1977!

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Zarjaz reading ahead! Let the nostalgia trip commence.

Prog #7 (April 9, 1977)

Cover by Massimo Belardinelli

Italian artist supreme Massimo Belardinelli never disappoints. His Dan Dare interiors are just as fine and detailed, and once he starts penciling series such as Slaine and Ace Trucking; well then, the rest, as they say, is history.

Prog #9 (April 23, 1977)

Cover by Dave Gibbons

Before Watchmen, there was Dave Gibbons doing Harlem Heroes and some frighteningly good covers like this one. Cyborg nutter Gruber takes a pot shot at Giant! What more could anyone ask for in a dynamic cover?

Prog #11 (May7, 1977)

Cover by Brian Bolland

Brian Bolland! All I can say is WOW. The cover is a brilliant depiction of Dan Dare’s Mr. Monday, with a fiery death that awaits the crew. Are they wearing red shirts? More than probably.

Prog #12 (May 14, 1977)

Cover by Mike Western

The Mekon, as drawn by classic British comic artist and legend Mike Western.

Prog #18 (June 25, 1977)

Cover by Don Lawrence

Dredd deals with some illegal farming operations.

Prog #20 (July 9, 1977)

Cover by Brian Bolland

Great cover title! And the reaction of the two characters in the background is priceless.

Prog #23 (July 30, 1977)

Cover by Brian Bolland

Brian Bolland excels at putting some real humor into his covers, and into his interiors too. This cover is a particularly memorable one due to the plague of Lilliputian Plutonians erupting from this man’s skin. Yecch!

Prog #27 (August 27, 1977)

Cover by Brian Bolland

I wonder how long it took Brian Bolland to draw the wrinkles on that guy’s forehead. Also, Carnivorous frogs freak me out.

Prog #28 (September 3, 1977)

Cover by Lopez

An absolutely fantastic monster cover by Lopez. Very reminiscent of the old EC Comics publications Weird Science and Weird Fantasy.

Prog #44 (December 1977)

Cover by Kevin O’Neill

Christmas never goes out of style, even if a murderous Santa wants to blow up your pet robot, right Dwedd?

A Galactic Finale: Reflecting on 2000AD’s Stellar Debut Year

As we bring our visual expedition to a close, I’m left with a renewed appreciation for the magic that was 2000AD in 1977. These covers weren’t just pieces of art; they were gateways into worlds unknown, luring us into tales of rebellion, futurism, and uncharted territories. They captured the spirit of an era, both in the comic realm and the world beyond, setting the tone for the legendary status that 2000AD would achieve in the years that followed.

To all my fellow Squaxx Dek Thargo who journeyed with me through this post, a heartfelt thank you. Whether you were there during the initial 1977 rush or discovered these covers today, the essence remains the same: 2000AD is timeless, and its legacy is unmatched.

But now, I turn the conversation over to you. Which cover from ’77 resonated most with you? Are there any you feel should’ve made the cut? Share your thoughts, memories, and even your own personal top 10 in the comments below. The beauty of 2000AD lies not just in its pages but in the community it has nurtured over the years.

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Until our next thrilling dive into the Galaxy’s Greatest Comic, remember to keep the thrill-power levels at max, and as always… Splundig Vur Thrigg!