Brilliant Sci-Fi Manga Planetes Is Getting New Deluxe Edition Omnibuses

Much like other Deluxe Edition manga from Dark Horse, these 7 x 10-inch hardcover versions of Planetes feature elegant, subtle cover designs inspired by the International Space Station’s various motifs. To enhance the tactile experience, Dark Horse has imprinted some of the patterns and texts on both the front and back covers. Book 1 contains 528 pages with copper accents on the edges. Most significantly, readers will discover 44 pages presented in vivid color on glossy art stock.

Planetes marks the debut of Makoto Yukimura, the mangaka now celebrated for Vinland Saga. The series started in 1999 and concluded in 2004, encompassing 26 chapters over four volumes. The Deluxe Edition: Book 1 presents the initial segment of the narrative arc.

If you haven’t yet delved into it, Planetes is set in the late 21st century, revolving around working-class astronauts assigned to remove debris and other human-made threats from orbit. Plans are also in motion for the first crewed journey to Jupiter, as the planet holds resources pivotal for humanity’s quest to explore the wider solar system. This scenario sets multiple characters on a collision path, as the race to Jupiter is fraught with danger, personal struggles, and other challenges that could derail the mission.

The distinctiveness of Planetes lies in Yukimura’s thorough research, which imbues the series with a sense of authenticity. It’s rich with real-world technology and science, all set against the backdrop of compelling developments involving the characters and their surroundings. If you appreciate science-focused films like Christopher Nolan’s Interstellar, this series is a must-read.

From a design standpoint, the Planetes Deluxe Edition: Book 2 closely resembles Book 1. The primary distinction is that the porthole on the front cover showcases a different celestial body. Furthermore, you can expect to find similar premium enhancements when Book 2 launches on December 2: Embossed front and back cover designs, copper metallic gilded edges, and 44 shiny pages of vibrant artwork.

Book 2 comprises 536 pages—slightly more than the 2016 paperback compilation—and encompasses the latter section of Planetes’ unforgettable sci-fi narrative. As previously noted, the paperback edition is no longer in circulation, making it exciting to see the entire Planetes saga available once more in physical omnibus format.

As previously stated, Yukimura continued with Vinland Saga following Planetes, a project he has dedicated 20 years to. While Planetes examined the connection between humanity and space, Vinland Saga presents an epic narrative that centers on Thorfinn in the Viking Era. Although it begins as a revenge-driven thriller, focusing on a boy fixated on avenging his father’s killer, Vinland Saga evolves into an expansive story of redemption, forgiveness, and fresh starts.

Vinland Saga’s ongoing Deluxe Edition project is progressing swiftly, with Dark Horse publishing six hardcover editions since the first Deluxe Edition debuted in early 2024. Book 8 is expected to launch on August 5.

These hardback editions compile three volumes of the series on top-quality paper, featuring oversized editions that let you appreciate the artwork in all its stunning detail. You will also discover many bonus materials.

Here, you will find insights and analytical notes from Yukimura that showcase his thorough attention to specifics, unique artwork, interviews, and special illustrations.

1. Vinland Saga Deluxe Edition: Volume 1 — $47 ($55)
2. Vinland Saga Deluxe Edition: Volume 2 — $32 ($55)
3. Vinland Saga Deluxe Edition: Volume 3 — $43 ($55)
4. Vinland Saga Deluxe Edition: Volume 4 — $32 ($55)
5. Vinland Saga Deluxe Edition: Volume 5 — $26 ($55)
6. Vinland Saga Deluxe Edition: Volume 6 — $32 ($55)
7. Vinland Saga Deluxe Edition: Volume 7 — $39 ($55)
8. Vinland Saga Deluxe Edition: Volume 8 — $55 | Launches August 5