In advance of Comic Con International: San Diego, the biggest pop culture event of the year, Archie Comics and SEGA announced plans for a third ongoing Sonic the Hedgehog comic book series – SONIC BOOM – based on the eagerly-anticipated franchise extension that will include two new video games, a Cartoon Network CG-animated TV series, and an extensive merchandising program.

Written by bestselling Sonic comic scribe Ian Flynn, the comic series will reside in the same story universe as the TV series and games, featuring a different take on the Sonic the Hedgehog universe, with a new look and feel. Sonic and his friends Tails, Amy, Knuckles and new member Sticks, must come together as a team to explore a new world full of comedy and adventure.

The first issue will have four linking variant covers featuring the different characters. Check out the gallery above to view the five covers (click to enlarge) to SONIC BOOM #1 – hitting comic shops and digital in October!

For more details, read IGN’s interview with Flynn and series editor Paul Kaminski.