CrossGen

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CrossGen was an American comic book publisher founded in 1998 by Mark Alessi. The company was known for its unique approach to storytelling and its attempt to create a cohesive universe across its various titles. CrossGen's comics were characterized by their high-quality artwork and intricate plots, often blending elements of fantasy, science fiction, and superhero genres.

History

CrossGen was established in Tampa, Florida, and quickly gained attention for its ambitious publishing strategy. Unlike many other comic book publishers, CrossGen focused on creating a shared universe where characters and storylines from different titles could intersect and influence each other. This approach was intended to create a more immersive and interconnected reading experience.

The company launched its first titles in 2000, including Sigil, Mystic, and Scion. These titles were part of the "Sigilverse," the shared universe that formed the backbone of CrossGen's storytelling.

Notable Titles

Some of the most notable titles published by CrossGen include:

• Sigil - A science fiction series centered around a group of humans with mysterious sigils that grant them extraordinary powers.
• Mystic - A fantasy series following the adventures of a young woman who becomes the most powerful sorceress in her world.
• Scion - A blend of fantasy and science fiction, focusing on a young prince who must navigate a world of political intrigue and warfare.
• Sojourn - A high fantasy series about a woman on a quest to defeat an evil warlord.
• Ruse - A detective series set in a Victorian-inspired world, featuring a brilliant detective and his loyal assistant.

Business Model

CrossGen's business model was innovative for its time. The company employed its writers and artists as full-time staff, providing them with salaries and benefits. This was in contrast to the freelance model used by most other comic book publishers. CrossGen also invested heavily in digital technology, offering its comics online through a subscription service called "Comics on the Web."

Decline and Bankruptcy

Despite its initial success, CrossGen faced financial difficulties in the early 2000s. The company struggled to maintain its ambitious publishing schedule and faced competition from established publishers like Marvel Comics and DC Comics. In 2004, CrossGen filed for bankruptcy and ceased operations. Many of its assets, including its intellectual properties, were later acquired by The Walt Disney Company.

Legacy

CrossGen's influence can still be seen in the comic book industry today. The company's emphasis on high-quality artwork and interconnected storytelling has been adopted by other publishers. Additionally, some of CrossGen's titles and characters have been revived by other publishers, keeping the spirit of the Sigilverse alive.

Related Pages

• Mark Alessi
• Sigil (comics)
• Mystic (comics)
• Scion (comics)
• Sojourn (comics)
• Ruse (comics)
• The Walt Disney Company
• Marvel Comics
• DC Comics