Marvel has a tradition of publishing comic book prequels to its films, and following that tradition, it has released the first issue of a "Guardians of the Galaxy" Infinite Comic via its Marvel Comics Digital Storefront. The issue is written by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning with art by Andrea DiVito, and serves as a prequel to James Gunn's upcoming film.

The storyu, which focuses on Gamora, precedes the release of the "Guardians of the Galaxy Prelude" comic due to hit stores this week, also by Abnett and Lanning with art by Wellington Alves. The Infinite Comic is a somewhat surprising release, given that there's been relatively little fanfare about the project leading up to its debut.

"Tonally I think it's absolutely in keeping with our 'Guardians' run as you would recognize it but it has its own flavor," Abnett said of this week's print prelude in February. "That's something I worked hard to maintain in those Prelude stories."

"Guardians of the Galaxy Prequel Infinite Comic" #1 is available now. "Guardians of the Galaxy Prelude" #1 hits stores later this week.