Comic book collectors will find something special at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con. New-Gen Universe, Inc. has introduced its first consumer product: an exclusive trading card collection created in partnership with Cryptozoic Entertainment.
The release celebrates the Marvel-distributed “New-Gen” comic series and builds interest in the upcoming animated series, “New-Gen Nanobot Heroes.”
Only 300 collector boxes are available worldwide for the July 23–26 convention. This limited release makes the trading cards one of the rarest “New-Gen” collectibles to date. The collection also connects the original comics with the franchise’s next chapter.
Story Behind “New-Gen”
“New-Gen” follows twin brothers Sean and Chris after nanotechnology changes their lives. The technology gives them extraordinary abilities and places them in a battle against the villain Deadalus.
The story takes place in a futuristic world where nature and advanced technology exist together. It combines superhero action with science fiction while exploring the impact of technology on society.
J.D. Matonti, Julia Coppola, and Chris Matonti created “New-Gen.” The franchise started as a Marvel-distributed comic book series. Since then, it has expanded into publishing, animation, and licensed products.
What’s Included in the Collector Box?
Each convention-exclusive box contains 13 collectible cards inspired by artwork from the comic series.
The collection includes:
1. 11 base cards
2. One rainbow foil card
3. One autograph card signed by J.D. Matonti, Molly Fahey, or Tony Oliver
Each autograph card features an authentic on-card signature and has a limited print run of only 100 copies. Some base cards and rainbow foil cards are unique one-of-one editions, making them especially rare.
Comic-Con buyers will also receive a free “New-Gen” graphic novel. The book includes a foreword written by Mark Hamill and explains the franchise’s origin story.
Consumer Products Initiative
Debra Joester, President of Joester Loria Group, leads the expanding consumer products program for “New-Gen.”
J.D. Matonti said, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Debra Joester and Cryptozoic Entertainment on this first New-Gen consumer products initiative. We envision many more imaginative opportunities like these as we work with Joester Loria Group, Toonz Media Group, and world-class talent to bring our New-Gen Nanobot Heroes story to children of all ages.”
Debra Joester also commented on the partnership. She said, “We are delighted to partner with J.D. Matonti, Toonz Media Group, and the extraordinary talent behind New-Gen Nanobot Heroes. Fans are craving the next evolution of superheroes, and J.D. has created the gripping storytelling, compelling characters, and rich, imaginative new world that delivers just that.”
Animated Series Moves Closer to Release
Comic-Con visitors can also view new artwork from “New-Gen Nanobot Heroes” before the animated series premieres. The preview features the heroes arriving by spaceship in the series’ futuristic setting. Fans can also enter a giveaway for a “New-Gen” graphic novel signed by Mark Hamill.
The animated series includes 13 episodes, each running 22 minutes. J.D. Matonti serves as the writer and director. Evan Anglin and Eric Williams at Zero Gravity Management represent him. New-Gen Universe and Toonz Media Group produce the series. Chris Matonti, Julia Coppola, Brad Heisman, and J.D. Matonti serve as executive producers.
The writing team includes Brent Friedman, known for “Star Wars: The Clone Wars,” and Eugene Son, who worked on “Avengers Assemble.” Four additional writers also contribute to the project. Toonz Media Group will distribute the series internationally. Ketchup Entertainment will manage its domestic release.
The voice cast features Finn Wolfhard, Nick Wolfhard, Anya Chalotra, Luke Wilson, Henry Rollins, Taylor Gray, Molly Fahey, Lena Headey, and Tony Oliver. John Loeffler composed the series score.
About the Companies
New-Gen Universe develops entertainment projects based on the “New-Gen” intellectual property and other original creations. Its advisory board includes the franchise creators, former Marvel CFO Ken West, and Bonnie Arnold, producer of “How to Train Your Dragon.”
Toonz Media Group has worked in animation for more than 25 years. The company produces about 5,000 minutes of CGI and 2D programming each year. Its previous projects include “Wolverine and the X-Men” for Marvel, “Speed Racer: The Next Generation” for Lionsgate, and “Mostly Ghostly” for Universal.
The Comic-Con trading card release marks another milestone for the “New-Gen” franchise. It links the original comic series with the upcoming “New-Gen Nanobot Heroes” animated show. The limited-edition cards, experienced creative team, and expanding entertainment lineup highlight the franchise’s steady growth across comics, animation, and licensed collectibles.
