The U.S. based publishing house Mad Cave Studios has opened pre-orders for comic book number three in their second series featuring the Defenders of the Earth team.

The comic book series is based around the Defenders of the Earth cartoon series, whose main characters are Flash Gordon, the Phantom, Mandrake the Magician, and Lothar, who are all licensed by King Features Syndicate. 

Titled ‘Defenders of the Earth: Dark Destiny‘, the all original comic book series is authored by Dan DiDio, illustrated by Alex Sanchez, colored by Juancho Velez and lettering by Carlos M. Mangual. The second edition is due for released on the 21st of January 2026, with this newly listed third edition due for release on the 4th of March 2026.

The description seen in the advertisement reads:

THE LAST WAR OF MONGO?!

Flash Gordon’s trial ended in chaos! The citizens of Mongo want someone held responsible for the devastation of their planet — but the Defenders won’t let their friend take the fall. Will they risk a war of the worlds to save him? And what of Dale Arden, the woman they came to Mongo to find? Plus, the young gen unmasks the Weather Demon — only to find themselves tested anew!

At this stage, Defenders of the Earth: Dark Destiny edition number three is only available in the one cover design, an illustration by Marco Santucci as can be seen below.

The front cover illustration presents a chaotic, high-stakes battle scene featuring the full Defenders of the Earth team, overwhelmed by a monstrous horde. In the foreground, a determined Flash Gordon lunges forward with a shout, his face illuminated by a warm glow, while Lothar stands back-to-back with him, bracing for impact against a group of snarling, grey-skinned mutants and a reptilian creature. Mid-ground, The Phantom delivers a powerful punch into the fray, and Mandrake the Magician stands poised in his signature top hat and cape, wielding magical blue energy to hold back the advancing enemies.

Defenders of the Earth: Dark Destiny edition number three is available for pre-order in both physical and digital formats on the Mad Cave Studios website HERE.

---