"DC's Absolute Universe: A Chronological Reading Guide"

DC's All In publishing initiative offers powerhouse creators the opportunity to craft stories about the label's most iconic heroes, free from the shackles of pre-established continuity. Spearheaded by comics legends Scott Snyder and Joshua Williamson, the initiative includes the Absolute Universe, which follows the Absolute Power arc from late 2024. This ongoing series introduces a new status quo for Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, challenging fans' expectations of these beloved characters.

Since its launch in October, the Absolute Universe has been a dynamic narrative with multiple ongoing titles. It can be challenging to keep up with the timeline and characters, so we're here to provide a clear breakdown of the Absolute Universe's chronology and reading order for 2025.

Note: It's important not to confuse the Absolute Universe titles with DC's "Absolute" collected editions, such as the new Absolute Batman: Zero Year, as they are entirely separate entities.

The Reading Order

For all ongoing series, start with our recommended reading order, then follow subsequent issues in release order. Each main Absolute series will consist of a six-issue run and will eventually be compiled into trade paperback editions.

1. DC All In Special #1 by Scott Snyder, Joshua Williamson, Wes Craig, and Daniel Sampere

This oversized one-shot by Scott Snyder serves as the foundation for the Absolute Universe. It's the perfect starting point before delving into Absolute Batman.

2. Absolute Batman #1 by Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta

First published in October 2024, Absolute Batman #1 marks the official start of the Absolute Universe. It presents a gritty take on the Dark Knight, imagining Bruce Wayne without his wealth, high-tech Batcave, or Alfred to keep him grounded.

3. Absolute Wonder Woman #1 by Kelly Thompson and Hayden Sherman

Released at the end of October, this issue reimagines Wonder Woman, turning the Greek mythos upside down. Diana is portrayed as a heavily armed Amazon warrior on a quest for purpose.

4. Absolute Superman #1 by Jason Aaron and Rafa Sandoval

Written by Jason Aaron, known for Southern Bastards and Thor, this issue continues the theme of exploring heroes stripped of their usual advantages. Superman is depicted as more relatable, coming from humble beginnings.

5. Absolute Flash #1 by Jeff Lemire and Nick Robles

Launching the second wave in 2025, this issue focuses on Wally West learning the nuances of speed without the support of the Flash family or the Speed Force.

6. Absolute Martian Manhunter #1 by Deniz Camp and Javier Rodriguez

The second entry in the 2025 wave, this series offers a significant departure from the original character. FBI agent John Jones faces a Martian takeover, drawing him into a vast conflict.

7. Absolute Green Lantern #1 by Al Ewing and Jahnoy Lindsay

This unique take on the Green Lantern mythos involves four former Green Lanterns—Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and Jo Mullein—dealing with the aftermath of a crashed Lantern in a small town.

Upcoming Collected Editions

Currently, only the first three Absolute titles have announced release dates for their collected editions:

• Absolute Batman Vol. 1: The Zoo - August 5
• Absolute Wonder Woman Vol. 1: The Last Amazon - August 12
• Absolute Superman Vol. 1: The Last Dust of Krypton - August 19

These releases represent the current scope of the Absolute Universe, but there's potential for more stories and possibly a culminating event by the end of 2025 or later, with additional heroes receiving the Absolute treatment.