Unpopular Studio, known for its innovative storytelling, is thrilled to announce its Kickstarter campaign for the eagerly awaited comic series, Pinochia. Running from July 18th to August 18th, 2024, this campaign invites supporters to immerse themselves in an epic journey through a post-apocalyptic world where the line between humanity and machinery is blurred and the future of mankind teeters on the edge.
Pinochia, also known as Pia, is not just a tale but a deep exploration of human nature, technological evolution, and the quest for redemption. Set in a dystopian reality following a catastrophic war between humans and machines, the surviving remnants of humanity are scattered and concealed in the last remaining enclaves: Liberty City, a hidden underwater sanctuary, and NewTown, an underground refuge. Pia, a machine crafted from recycled and spare parts, is designed to restore peace and balance in this fractured world. As Pia undergoes training and modifications, she evolves, becoming increasingly formidable while learning about human nature and uncovering the true causes of the conflict. She is faced with a profound question: Do humans deserve a second chance, or are they doomed to be subjects of research and labor?
The story unfolds with Pia, a 12-year-old girl-like machine created by Geppetto, a robotics engineer and a descendant of survivors from the tremendous human-robot conflict. In a bid to save humanity, Geppetto constructs Pia, an advanced android with lifelike camouflage and state-of-the-art AI. Her mission is to locate and aid the remaining human survivors and restore equilibrium between humans and robots. Along the way, mentors will train and guide Pia to complete this monumental task.
The comic series introduces a cast of intriguing characters. Pia herself is a fierce, curious, and driven android, evolving through her journey with new parts, enhanced armor, and simulated skin and hair. Lex, an ex-personal assistant house robot extensively modified, becomes Pia’s loyal companion. Little Man, an industrial robot designed for heavy machinery, values simplicity and honor. Ishtar, an ex-sex worker android with human flesh imitation prostheses, offers unique insights with her classiness and eloquence. E2, the first of several AI programs integrated into Pia’s BIOS, aids her in combat, speed, and training.
The narrative of Pinochia is divided into four captivating issues, with the first issue titled “The Dumpster.” This initial installment introduces Pia to her key allies, including Lex, Ishtar, Little Man, and Sio, a half-robot striving to become more human. Pia undergoes significant upgrades and tests her newfound skills in a critical battle.
The creative team behind Pinochia includes Christian Douglas, a writer with a rich cultural background and a storytelling style influenced by masters like Alan Moore and Frank Miller. Claudio Sanchez Viveros, an accomplished artist from Almería, Spain, brings vivid detail and emotion to the series with his artistic expertise.
Pinochia is a compelling addition to the cyberpunk and sci-fi genres, echoing themes from classics like Bicentennial Man, Alita: Battle Angel, and Blade Runner. The series addresses contemporary fears about artificial intelligence, exploring what it means to be human and raising questions about AI rights, coexistence, and existential risks. The first issue, part of Unpopular Tales Volume II, spans 32 pages and is intended for readers aged 12 and up, with subsequent issues planned for release approximately every six months.
Unpopular Studio invites you to join this groundbreaking project by backing Pinochia on Kickstarter. Supporting this campaign means becoming part of a community dedicated to stories that push beyond mainstream entertainment. For more information and to support the project, visit Kickstarter Campaign for Pinochia.
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