Rocket Raccoon was created by Bill Mantlo and Keith Giffen, first appearing in Marvel Preview #7 (1976). He was enhanced by genetic experiments to become a sentient being and technically proficient. He would eventually team up with Star-Lord to stop the villain Phalanx. This union was a springboard to the two of them forming the Guardians of the Galaxy with teammates Groot, Drax the Destroyer and Gamora.