Sneak Peek: 'Zombie King' Arthur Suydam Variant Cover for George Romero 'Empire Of The Dead' Comic

Having George A. Romero working in comics is good enough, but adding a celebrated zombie artist to the mix? Well that's more than our poor reanimated corpse brains could hope for.

But it's true. According to a press release, Romero's "Empire Of The Dead" Marvel comic is continuing its variant cover treatment for issues #2 and #3, once again with art by "Zombie King" Arthur Suydam. Fans know Suydam as the master behind zombie cover art seen in "Marvel Zombies," "Marvel Zombies vs. Army Of Darkness," "Marvel Zombies 2," "Deadpool: Merc With A Mouth," "Thor #1," the Misfits' "Land Of The Dead" single and more. So pairing with Romero (with interior art by Alex Maleev) makes this a pretty awesome zombie duo.

In the variant covers, Suydam will be zombifying New York City and turning the Big Apple into a rotten one. Issue #2 hits today, while #3 will be released March 26. Take a look at some of his variants for the first two issues of "Empire," along with a sneak peek at the zombie subway from #3 (after the jump).

-Aaron Sagers

Take a Peek Into George Romero's 'Empire of the Dead #3'

If you haven't checked out George Romero's "Empire of the Dead" comics yet, you should definitely get on it. The grisly tales of post apocalyptic New York being overtaken by zombies and vampires is brought to life by artist Alex Maleev.

The third installment will be hitting shops on March 23, so don't forget to shuffle to your local store and pick it up! While you wait, here's a preview of the next issue:

"This March, the pulse-pounding horror epic continues in 'Empire of the Dead #3' – from the mind of Zombie Godfather George Romero and drawn by critically acclaimed artist Alex Maleev! Zombies roam the streets of a plague-ridden Manhattan by day. And Vampires feast on humans by night! Something is rotten in the big apple. Someone moves to strike against the mayor from the shadows. Who is the firecracker known as Dixie Peach? And as whispers of a full-scale zombie uprising stir – where does that leave the last remaining humans? Find out when George Romero's 'Empire of the Dead #3' shambles its way into comic shops this March!"

-Nowal Massari

The Battle Continues in Romero's 'Empire of the Dead #2'

This February, Marvel along with Zombie King George A. Romero and artist Alex Maleev are bringing fans the second issue of their comic "Empire of the Dead." The story takes place in quarantine zone NYC, years after a horrific outbreak spreads across the nation. Though locked away, the inhabitants of the city are far from safe, for lurking amongst the masses are blood sucking vampires and brain eating zombies!

A press release reveals, "Something is rotten in the big apple. And it’s not just the rotten flesh of the Zombies overrunning Manhattan! Deep in the pit of the bloody Circus Maximus – the undead battle for the amusement of the living. But not all here is as it seems. Amid the fury of the arena, vampires roam New York City, hiding in plain sight! What menacing secrets lie in the dark corners of the once bustling metropolis? And when the zombies and vampires prowl – where does that leave the humans? Find out in George Romero's 'Empire of the Dead #2!'"

Be sure to shamble on in to your local comic book shop on February 26 and snag your own copy.

-Nowal Massari

Romero's 'Empire of the Dead' Invades NYC

Courtesy IMDB

Marvel has recently announced that the “Godfather of the Zombie Apocalypse” George A. Romero, is writing a brand new comic series called “Empire of the Dead.”

According to editor-in-chief, Axel Alonso, “George A. Romero singlehandedly created the zombie genre that’s captured the public imagination for decades. Now, his unique vision for the silver screen comes to life on the comic book page – a chilling rumination on human nature and man’s place in the food chain, served with a terrifying twist.”

It’s years after the plague has hit and Manhattan may be quarantined but flesh eaters still roam and pose a threat. There is also another predator on the loose and unfortunately, we have to wait until January to learn about this new threat.

However, a lucky few can not only attend a panel but get a signed "Empire of the Dead" mini poster signed by the man himself. How? You'll have to attend this weekend's New York Comic Con.

Details from the press release:
All will be revealed when George A. Romero himself comes to New York Comic Con for Saturday’s fan-favorite 'Cup O’ Joe' panel (4pm in Room 1E)! Before the panel, George A. Romero will be signing in-person at the Marvel Booth (Booth #1354) from 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.! Don’t miss your chance to get an exclusive signed 'Empire of the Dead' mini-poster (while supplies last)!

George A. Romero’s “Empire of the Dead” #1 will be on sale this January.

-Larissa Mrykalo