Den – Fantastic Adventures #1–10 (1988–1989)
đ§♂️ Genre
Fantasy | Science Fiction | Adventure | Erotic Comics
Rooted in sword-and-sorcery storytelling with a heavy dose of science fiction and eroticism, Den – Fantastic Adventures transports readers into an alternate dimension where mythology, desire, and danger collide in a vivid, dreamlike landscape. The comic explores themes of power, identity, transformation, and rebellion.
đ Main Characters
-
Den – A muscular, near-nude hero transported from Earth to the strange world of Neverwhere. Courageous, powerful, and morally complex.
-
Kath – Den’s companion, whose journey mirrors his in many ways. She undergoes a transformation that challenges gender roles and identity.
-
Zeg – A tyrant with magical powers who rules over parts of Neverwhere with cruelty and ambition.
-
Queen Ardra – A powerful and seductive ruler with her own agenda in the battle for domination over Neverwhere.
-
The Red Queen – A malevolent sorceress who serves as one of Den’s primary antagonists.
✍️ Writer
Richard Corben – Known for his mastery of underground and fantasy comics, Corben brought Den to life with a unique blend of pulp storytelling, philosophical undertones, and adult content. His storytelling was influenced by Edgar Rice Burroughs and H.P. Lovecraft, though filtered through his distinct artistic and narrative voice.
đš Artist
Richard Corben – As both writer and artist, Corben’s signature airbrushed art style, rich textures, and detailed anatomy defined the comic. His visuals were surreal, sensual, and powerfully immersive, creating a world both alien and visceral.
đ§đŒ Editor Details
While Corben independently managed much of the creative direction, the editorial oversight was minimal, preserving his creative freedom. The series was largely self-contained under Corben’s own imprint and later supported by underground and fantasy publishers that favored artistic freedom.
đą Publisher and Brand
Fantagor Press
Den – Fantastic Adventures was published under Fantagor Press, Richard Corben’s independent publishing company, which specialized in adult fantasy and science fiction titles.
đ Release Year
1988 – 1989
The ten-issue series ran for two years, continuing and expanding the Den mythos that first began in Heavy Metal magazine.
đ Brief Plot Summary
Den – Fantastic Adventures follows the exploits of Den, a man from Earth who is mysteriously transported to Neverwhere—a strange, sensual, and savage dimension. Stripped of his former self and reborn as a heroic, muscular figure, Den embarks on dangerous quests involving ancient relics, magic, tyrannical rulers, and mythical beasts. Alongside him is Kath, who undergoes her own transformation and becomes both ally and enigma. Together, they navigate the dark politics, shifting allegiances, and erotic energy of Neverwhere.
The series blends action, eroticism, and existential reflection in a world where the line between good and evil blurs, and survival means evolving—or dying.
𧩠Notable Arcs or Storylines
-
The Search for the Locnar – A powerful orb capable of altering reality, serving as a recurring object of desire and destruction.
-
Kath’s Transformation – A pivotal storyline exploring themes of identity, gender, and power dynamics.
-
Battle Against the Red Queen – One of the most visually intense and narratively gripping arcs in the series, highlighting Den’s moral dilemmas.
đ§ Fan Theories or Interpretations
-
Neverwhere as a Metaphor – Many readers interpret Neverwhere as a representation of the subconscious—a dream realm shaped by human desire, fear, and creativity.
-
Den’s Rebirth = Transcendence – Den’s transformation is often seen as symbolic of escaping societal constraints and embracing a raw, unfiltered existence.
-
Gender Fluidity – Kath’s arc has inspired interpretations of gender identity and fluidity, making the comic a subject of academic and LGBTQ+ discussions.
đ Review Summary
đŹ Den – Fantastic Adventures is a visually stunning, daringly adult fantasy that remains one of the most distinctive works in independent comics. Richard Corben’s lush, muscular art style is both beautiful and grotesque, perfectly suiting the surreal tone of the narrative. While some may find the erotic elements excessive, others praise the way they intertwine with the mythos and personal transformation of the characters. The story balances pulpy adventure with philosophical depth, making it more than just fantasy—it’s an exploration of power, identity, and human nature.
⭐ Art: 9.5/10
⭐ Story: 8.5/10
⭐ Character Depth: 8/10
đ§♀️ A must-read for fans of mature fantasy who crave both visual spectacle and thematic richness.
Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)
