Dark Horse Comics is one of the largest independent comic book publishers. Founded in 1986 by Mike Richardson in Oregon, the company was built on giving creators more control over their work, attracting talent looking for an alternative to the major publishers.
Dark Horse publishes comics, graphic novels, and manga across science fiction, horror, fantasy, action, and drama. The company supports creator-owned comics, meaning writers and artists keep the rights to their creations. This philosophy attracted creators like Frank Miller, Mike Mignola, and Brian Wood.
Major titles include Hellboy by Mike Mignola, Sin City and 300 by Frank Miller, and The Umbrella Academy by Gerard Way and Gabriel Bá. The company has published licensed properties including Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Alien, Predator, and Terminator, and previously held the Star Wars comics license. Manga publishing includes Berserk, Blade of the Immortal, and Gantz.
Through Dark Horse Entertainment, many properties have been adapted into film and television.