It was 25 years ago that we decided to put a comic book together with a simple idea in mind...to give comics creators the chance to work outside mainstream superhero fare and create the projects they really wanted to do. We thought that, given that chance, these artists and writers would welcome the opportunity to get away from capes and long underwear, and stretch their creative bones. We also had a notion that if comics creators were allowed to own the work they did, we’d get the best they had to offer. Dark Horse Presents was launched with that in mind, and to our amazement, it caught on in a big way. The book ran for over 150 issues and was the launch pad for dozens of creators and characters. Our simple idea proved successful, and a comics company was born. Now, 25 years later, we are going back to our roots and relaunching that storied title. But there’s more...

We’ve created a home for creators where we can extend and expand the original Dark Horse Presents idea. We’re calling it Dark Horse Originals. This imprint is not a “universe,” and you won’t find a single unifying theme except this: unique creators with unique visions expressed in quality graphic novels. You’ll see a variety of styles and formats. You’ll meet creators attempting to stretch the traditional definitions of comics and others working their magic within familiar boundaries. Well-known talents will mix with amazing new discoveries. Nothing is certain except the excitement and surprises coming your way.

This anniversary year is a special one for those of us at Dark Horse. It is a time to reflect on where we’ve been and where we are headed. With that in mind, the Dark Horse Originals line encompasses both, presenting the ideals upon which we were founded all those years ago, while at the same time showing us where comics are going as we head into the future. Once again, it’s a simple idea: great comics creators given the chance to do the comics they want to do in the format they desire. Wow! Sounds exciting...and original. I’ll be there. I hope you will too.

— Mike Richardson