Fans of Soul Reaver will discover the franchise’s untold backstory in an all-new, original graphic novel titled Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver – The Dead Shall Rise headed to Kickstarter later this year. Arriving in time for the 25th Anniversary of the release of the original Soul Reaver game, the publication of Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver – The Dead Shall Rise will mark the first official new Soul Reaver narrative in two decades, since 2003’s Legacy of Kain: Defiance. 

The project is helmed by writers Joshua Viola (True Believers, It Came From the Multiplex) and Angie Hodapp (Unioverse, Shadow Atlas), with interior art by Juan Samu (Star Wars, Godzilla), letters by Jeremiah Lambert (Masters of the Universe, Transformers), covers by Dave Rapoza (Destiny, Magic: The Gathering) and Aaron Lovett (Monster Train, Inkbound), with additional art by Jonny Bush (Rob Zombie, Ghost) and Ninja Jo (Star Wars, Stranger Things). Brent Friedman (Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Call of Duty) provides narrative guidance alongside creative direction and input from Crystal Dynamics, including never-before-seen ideas and elements from unreleased Soul Reaver lore.    

Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver – The Dead Shall Rise delves into Raziel’s past as a human Sarafan warrior and his transformation into a vampire lieutenant under Kain. The story introduces new characters, including a mysterious vampire with deep connections to Raziel and Kain. This compelling tale explores and expands the existing canon while answering long-standing questions. 

Starting today, fans can sign up on the BackerKit prelaunch page to receive an email alert when the project goes live. Everyone who signs up will receive a free digital image from officially approved Crystal Dynamics Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver archives after the project launches. 

“In college, I created a Soul Reaver poster for a class project, never imagining I would one day officially contribute to the franchise,” says co-writer Joshua Viola. “Even today, Raziel graces my tattoo sleeve—a testament to my deep connection with this universe. Fans can expect a project infused with that same passion. Working directly with creatives from Crystal Dynamics and reuniting with former collaborators makes this a truly special endeavor.” 

In collaboration with Crystal Dynamics, this will be the first-ever book published by Bit Bot Media, a new, cutting-edge multimedia company from Klayton (Celldweller, Scandroid), the multifaceted musician known for his contributions to major motion pictures, TV, and video games including Transformers, Malignant, and Killer Instinct, and Denver Post bestselling writer and film producer Joshua Viola.