The following is an interview with writer Josh Viola (co-founder, Bit Bot Media) regarding the recent Kickstarter campaign launch for the prequel graphic novel, Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver – The Dead Shall Rise, in collaboration with Crystal Dynamics and Bit Bot Media. In this interview, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief Barbra Dillon chats with Viola about his shared creative process in working with co-writer Angie Hodapp and artist Juan Samu to bring the franchise to the sequential art medium, the exciting backer rewards available to supporters, and more!
Barbra Dillon, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief: Congratulations on the Kickstarter campaign launch for Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver – The Dead Shall Rise! How would you describe this prequel chapter in the franchise’s history?
Josh Viola: Our story dives deep into Raziel’s past with a focus on pivotal moments that shaped him into the character we recognize in the games. It answers questions about his transformation—exploring the reasons behind his ruthless nature as a Sarafan inquisitor and reveals the events that led to the manifestation of his wings.
BD: What can you tell us about your shared creative process in working with co-writer Angie Hodapp and artist Juan Samu to bring this epic world to life on the page?
JV: I’ve collaborated with both of them many times before and have always been thrilled with both the process and the final results—this time is no different. We’re bringing everything we’ve learned from our previous experiences to create something truly special for readers. Angie and I have a clear vision for the story, and our writing process is very collaborative. With Juan, I work closely to ensure the art captures exactly what we envisioned, and as always, he surpasses our expectations. Zac Atkinson’s colors and Jeremiah Lambert’s lettering add that final polish that brings it all together.
BD: Adapting a prior work to a new medium can be a daunting process, especially in the instance of a video game, where its story may be told through a singular (or multiplayer) experience. What, if any, challenges did you experience in adapting this work in terms of its narrative and visual storytelling?
JV: This is an incredibly complex world, but, thankfully, I was already pretty familiar with it. Crystal Dynamics has also been a tremendous help, providing tons of resources and actively participating in the creative process. The biggest challenge has been racing against the clock—there’s never enough hours in the day. Without such an amazing team, this project would have been far more daunting.
BD: This marks the first book published by Bit Bot Media! What can you share with us about your experience in launching the multimedia company and your collaboration with Crystal Dynamics?
JV: This is the first book published by Bit Bot, but it’s actually around the 49th book I’ve published, counting work for my other companies Hex Publishers and Metal X Entertainment. Even so, it’s a thrill to launch with a series I hold so close to my heart. Crystal Dynamics has been a fantastic partner throughout this process, and I’m hopeful that this is just the beginning of many future collaborations with them. I still can’t believe I’ve had the incredible opportunity to be part of something this awesome.
BD: In light of the Kickstarter campaign, are there any backer rewards or exciting announcements that you would like to highlight for our readers?
JV: We’ve put together a pretty amazing lineup of rewards, and they’re all incredible. Aside from the graphic novel itself, my personal favorites are the high-end latex masks of Kain and Raziel, the Reaver sword replica, and the vinyl soundtrack by Celldweller featuring Matt Heafy of Trivium.
BD: Lastly, what is the best way for our readers to find more information about Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver – The Dead Shall Rise?
JV: You can sign up to get notified when we launch here.
