Jason Jones and Margaret Stohl Launch Stone Kite to Develop Transmedia Universe 'One Zero One'

Key points

• Stone Kite was founded by Jason Jones (Halo/Destiny creator) and Margaret Stohl (author) in Los Angeles.
• The studio's first project, 'One Zero One,' is a sci-fi story about humanity vs. rogue AI robotic soldiers.
• The narrative launches as a four-part comic series in October 2026, with digital and print editions.
• The studio's model involves creators from multiple disciplines (film, TV, comics, games) from day one.
• Over 200 creators, including Eric Heisserer and Christina Strain, are contributing to the 'One Zero One' universe.
• Future expansions of the 'One Zero One' world will include prose, audio, and screen projects in 2027.

Background

This launch follows a broader industry trend toward transmedia storytelling, where narratives expand across various platforms. While some previous attempts, like Reflector Entertainment's 'Unknown 9' universe, faced challenges after initial game releases, Stone Kite aims to build a more integrated approach from the outset. The theme of rogue AI in 'One Zero One' also resonates with recent real-world developments in AI safety and robotics, such as the increased safeguards in Anthropic's Claude Opus 5.5 and advancements in humanoid robotics showcased in Beijing.

How outlets are covering it

Game Informer emphasizes the personal connection between Jones and Stohl, highlighting Jones's lifelong desire to write and Stohl's role in supporting his literary ambitions. GamesBeat focuses on the business and structural aspects, noting the involvement of high-profile industry figures like Stephen Wacker (now Marvel Editor-in-Chief) and Lewis Peterson, and comparing the strategy to Dan Houser's recent focus on comics. Both sources agree on the core premise of breaking media silos, but GamesBeat provides more detail on the extensive roster of contributors and the financial scale of Jones's previous franchises.

Why it matters

Stone Kite's launch represents a significant shift in how major entertainment IP is developed, moving away from single-medium origins to a collaborative, multi-disciplinary model. The success of 'One Zero One' could set a new standard for transmedia storytelling, potentially influencing how other studios approach world-building and audience engagement in an era where consumers expect seamless experiences across comics, games, film, and literature.

What to watch

The first issue of 'One Zero One' is available now, with subsequent issues releasing through early 2027. The studio plans to expand the universe with prose, audio, and screen projects throughout the year. The long-term success of Stone Kite will depend on its ability to sustain audience interest across multiple formats and deliver on its promise of a cohesive, decades-long narrative experience.