BOOM! Studios is preparing for this summer Vampyrates, a series that blends horror and pirate adventure. Created by Fred Van Lente and Luca Pizzari, the plot follows Nira, Empress of Vampirium, seeking revenge after being dethroned by her cousin. Disguised as a cabin boy on a pirate ship, this young swordswoman promises supernatural action.
The art of drawing undead on deck 🎨
Luca Pizzari, known for his work at Marvel, applies a dynamic style here with bold lines and dense shadows. Nira's design balances elements of pirate attire with gothic details, such as sharp fangs and dark capes. Van Lente structures the narrative with flashbacks explaining the fall of the vampire empire, while the ship sails between islands full of creatures. The color palette uses intense reds for blood and cold blues for the night sea, creating visual contrast in every panel.
Leadership lessons: don't steal your vampire cousin's throne 🏴☠️
If anything teaches Vampyrates, it's that dethroning your vampire cousin is a terrible business idea. Nira, disguised as a cabin boy, will likely learn that scrubbing decks is less glamorous than ruling, but more effective for spying. That said, if you're a human pirate, be careful with nighttime snacks: you could be the menu. At least the usurping cousin will have to deal with a furious and hungry empress.