Each copy of Boom! Studios’ upcoming Warhammer:  Crown of Destruction trade paperback will include an exclusive in-game item for the Warhammer Online:  Age of Reckoning MMORPG, according to an announcement from the publisher.  The unique code will allow the purchaser to unlock the “Book of BOOM!,” which will have “an explosive effect on a player’s character.” 

Warhammer:  Crown of Destruction collects Boom’s third comic series based on the Warhammer universe.  The book is written by Kieron Gillen, with art by Dwayne Harris.   

Warhammer Online had a great launch for a new MMORPG, racking up over 750,000 paying subscribers in just over two weeks (see “Warhammer Online Up to 750k”).  While that’s no World of Warcraft (which has over 11 million subscribers), it’s a strong sign than an in-game item may be a strong incentive for fans of the MMORPG to buy the graphic novel.  Upper Deck’s Loot Cards, in-game items for its World of Warcraft Trading Card Game,  have fueled sales of the TCG, so it’s a proven strategy.