Mattel Press sets Rock 'Em, Sock 'Em Robots graphic novel for 2027
Dustin Brady writes and Dave Bardin illustrates We're Gonna Need a Bigger Bot, the first graphic novel in a new line based on the toy, aimed at readers aged 5 to 8.
Mattel Press has announced a graphic novel titled Rock 'Em, Sock 'Em Robots: We're Gonna Need a Bigger Bot, the first in a line of graphic novels based on the Rock 'Em, Sock 'Em Robots franchise. The book is set for a Summer 2027 release and targets readers aged five through eight, according to screenrant.com.
The story reimagines the Blue Bomber and Red Rocker as independent creations built by two competing inventors seeking control over a city called Downs Town. Dustin Brady is writing the book, with Dave Bardin as artist.
Mattel Press also announced three other titles due in 2027: Moonspell School for Witches, Chatty Cathy and Planet Silent.
Older franchise, new publishing line
The toy behind the book launched in 1964, designed by the Marx Toy Company as a boxing game. Marx Toys went out of business in the early 1980s, and Mattel resurrected the franchise in the 2000s.
Mattel's move into publishing follows its wider push into screen adaptations. In 2023, Barbie, directed by Greta Gerwig and starring Margot Robbie, was released and became a hit with fans and critics, after which Mattel began developing films and TV shows based on other franchises it owns. A live-action Masters of the Universe film was released in 2026 and is developing a following on streaming.
Quick answers
When does Rock 'Em, Sock 'Em Robots: We're Gonna Need a Bigger Bot come out?
Mattel Press has set a Summer 2027 release for the graphic novel.
Who is making the Rock 'Em, Sock 'Em Robots graphic novel?
Dustin Brady is writing it and Dave Bardin is the artist.
What age group is the graphic novel for?
It targets readers aged five through eight.