THE HORROR OF GODZILLA #1 (IDW Publishing)
Since IDW Publishing has launched the Kai-Sei Era of Godzilla, they’ve really taken the franchise to new places. The risks they have taken with new and original stories in this legendary franchise have paid off in big ways. Once again, they have brought us something new, fresh, and horror filled with The Horror of Godzilla! The first issue of this four-issue miniseries from IDW Publishing is set to rumble its way into comic shops on July 29th, 2026. Ahead of the Final Order Cutoff date of Monday June 15th, 2026, IDW Publishing gave us a copy for a SPOILER FREE first look review.
The Horror of Godzilla #1 – Written By Ethan S. Parker & Griffin Sheridan – Art By Tristan Jones – Colors By Josh Burcham - Letters By Tom Napolitano - Edited By Jake Williams -Published By IDW Publishing
Credit: IDW Publishing
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
STORY OVERVIEW:
It’s 1954 in Japan and because of the work of some scientists, a monster has been awoken. This is no regular monster, this is the King of the Monsters, Godzilla. For the first time in human history, Godzilla’s wrath is released upon the world. But the horrors that Godzilla brings is nothing in comparison to what the scientists have unleashed. Now Dr. Morrison is facing a tribunal, as her partner Dr. Shibata appears to be in the wind. What she reveals is that the destruction of Japan is only the tip of the iceberg. As the horrors from the aftermath are far, far worse.
WRITING:
This first issue of The Horror of Godzilla brings us an alternative history of the original Godzilla timeline. Ethan S. Parker & Griffin Sheridan bring not only a different take on the first appearance of Godzilla, but also an origin story for the source of power in this universe, Kai-Sei. They take the horror approach for the story and Godzilla isn’t even the worst of it. How the Kai-Sei energy is released on this unsuspecting world is absolutely terrifying and sets up for things we know from other Kai-Sei Era titles. This tie into the greater universe makes the story more familiar to fans of the current IDW run of Godzilla comics. Parker & Sheridan make this story mean spirited which furthers the horror feel of the story.
ARTWORK:
The artwork in this first issue is simply awe inspiring. Tristan Jones puts great detail into every panel not only bringing this world to life, but also the emotions that go along with it. Just the detailed work on the characters’ faces, let the reader know instantly what they are going through and the emotion they are experiencing. This really makes the horror in parts of the story really stand out. Jones’ design for Godzilla makes the King of the Monsters truly look like a monster. At times Godzilla even looks like a massive emotionless void, which really gives a coldness to the monster and his actions. Additionally, the scenes of destruction are breathtaking and filled with so much detail.
Note: The early version of the book I was given was not colored yet. The final issue will feature colors by Josh Burcham. The book will be in full color, with the Godzilla attack scenes featured in black, white, and green. After seeing how great the artwork is on its own, I can’t wait to see what the colors will add to it. Especially the attack scenes, as that sounds like an awesome idea.
Check Out My Review of Godzilla #11
Final Thoughts:
The Horror of Godzilla #1 is a great addition to not just the Kai-Sei Era of comics, but the legendary franchise as a whole. It gives a fresh and different take on the origin of one of the most legendary monsters. Well at the same time, giving an awesome origin for Kai-Sei which ties into the greater universe. Make sure to rush down to your Local Comic Shop before Monday June 15th and order multiple copies of this amazing issue. While you are there, also make sure to add it to your Pull List so you don’t miss any of the four issues when they drop.
FINAL GRADE: 9.5/10
Let me know your thoughts on The Horror of Godzilla #1 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
