This article introduces the reader to this special issue, by arguing for a critical planetary romanticism. This neo-romanticism (or new materialism) is not local/bioregional, but rather planetary in scope, and understands humans as creatures among creatures. Furthermore, this critical planetary romanticism understands that different bodies experience the worlds in which we live differently: hence, the critical. This Critical Planetary Romanticism is juxtaposed to 5 other options for future planetary becoming that are highly problematic. Finally, the article calls for re-attunement to our shifting planetary contexts in ways that are more connective and recognizes the suffering caused by the worlds we co-create.