Dead by Daylight: The Hillbilly #1 is the horrifying new addition to the world of survival horror comics that fans have been dying to read. Titan Comics has officially pulled back the curtain on this terrifying expansion of the Fog, bringing one of the game’s most iconic slashers to the printed page. As the debut issue in a four-part miniseries, this book promises to dive deep into the tragic and grotesque history of Max Thompson Jr.
Titan Comics, in collaboration with renowned developer Behaviour Interactive, continues to build immense authority in the niche of video game adaptations. By bringing in veteran talent, they ensure that the transition from the computer screen to the comic panel feels authentic and visceral. Horror enthusiasts will likely find this series to be a fresh perspective on the lore they thought they knew.
What to Expect in Dead by Daylight: The Hillbilly #1
In this opening chapter, we follow the story of Officer Darnell Hollis. After making the largest drug bust in the history of his small town, Hollis finds himself on a fast track to professional success. However, his upward mobility is hampered by waking nightmares—horrific visions of viscera and violence that seem to haunt his every move. This psychological tension is a hallmark of the franchise, and it sets a grim stage for what is to come.
Meanwhile, the narrative shifts to the infamous Coldwind Farm. It is here that we are introduced to “Boy,” a monster kept in a dark basement who lives for the slaughter. In addition to the character study of the rookie cop, the story explores the physical and mental chains that bind the creature who will eventually become The Hillbilly. As the dense fog rolls in, the line between reality and nightmare begins to blur.
The Creative Team and Publishing Details
To capture the specific atmosphere of the game, Titan Comics has assembled a top-tier creative team. Their collective experience ensures that the “Entity’s” influence is felt on every page.
- Writer: Derek Fridolfs (Batman: Arkham City)
- Artist: Dean Kotz (Black Hammer, The Savage Sword of Conan)
- Colorist: Allison Hu (Corvus)
- Letterer: Titan Staff / TBA
- Editor: Titan Comics Editorial
- Publisher: Titan Comics
The artwork by Dean Kotz is particularly noteworthy, capturing the gritty reality of the farm while maintaining the kinetic energy required for a horror chase. Allison Hu’s colors bring a muted, oppressive palette that mirrors the in-game experience perfectly.
A Must-Have for Collectors and Gamers
One of the biggest draws for this series is the inclusion of an exclusive in-game code inside every issue. This bridge between the physical comic and the digital game world is a brilliant move by the publisher. Furthermore, the variety of comic book covers available for this debut is staggering.
From Alex Horley’s haunting Cover A to Ilan Sheady’s “Gory Bagged” variant, there is something for every type of collector. There is even a glow-in-the-dark variant by Niclas Mortensen that is sure to stand out on any shelf. If you are looking for new comics to add to your pull list this April, this should be at the very top.
The debut of Dead by Daylight: The Hillbilly #1 marks a significant moment for the franchise. It proves that the lore of the Killers is deep enough to sustain long-form storytelling. For those who enjoy the “slasher” genre, this book provides the gore, the tension, and the backstory necessary to satisfy even the most hardened horror aficionados.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Dead by Daylight: The Hillbilly #1
In conclusion, Dead by Daylight: The Hillbilly #1 is a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling that successfully translates a beloved gaming property into a new medium. By focusing on the dual paths of a rookie cop and a burgeoning monster, Derek Fridolfs creates a narrative that is both personal and terrifying. Whether you are a fan of the game or just a lover of dark fiction, this 32-page journey into pure evil is not to be missed.
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