It’s been a few years since our last dosage of undead from the Godfather of Zombies. While his past few films have been hit or miss with fans, Romero now turns to comics with the help of Marvel and artist Alex Maleev to tell the latest instalment in his zombie universe. “Empire of the Dead” will be a five-issue limited that sees New York City infested, not only with zombies, but vampires as well.

Take your first look at “Empire of the Dead” #1 below. The issue is slated for a January release.

When the dead fight the dead – where does that leave the living? Marvel is pleased to present your very first look at Empire of the Dead #1 – from zombie godfather and horror visionary George Romero and Eisner Award winning artist Alex Maleev!

Welcome to New York City years after a horrifying plague has swept the nation. The Big Apple is a quarantine zone – but that doesn’t guarantee safety inside! Flesh-eating zombies roam within the remains of Manhattan – and they are not alone. Vampires lurk in the shadows as well, feasting on the living and the undead alike – and no one is safe!

“Like a surgeon, George Romero is once again using the horror genre as a scalpel, cutting through the surface of everyday life to expose society’s undercurrents,” said editor Bill Rosemann. “One could say that the vampires are the Haves and the zombies are the Have-Nots. And us poor humans? We’re the ones getting caught in the crossfire of their escalating war. It’s a violent clash indeed, and Alex Maleev is bringing this undead battle to horrifying – but beautiful – life!”

What happens when the undead invade the city that never sleeps? Find out when Empire of the Dead #1 shambles into a comic shop near you this January!

GEORGE A. ROMERO EMPIRE OF THE DEAD #1 (NOV130635)

Written by GEORGE A. ROMERO

Art by ALEX MALEEV

Cover by ALEX MALEEV

Variant Cover by ARTHUR SUYDAM

FOC – 12/09/13 On-Sale – 01/08/14