DC’s All In publishing initiative provides top-tier creators with the freedom to explore some of the label's most iconic heroes without the constraints of established continuity. Spearheaded by comics legends Scott Snyder and Joshua Williamson, a key component of All In is the Absolute Universe, which follows and expands upon the Absolute Power arc from late 2024. This ongoing narrative introduces a fresh status quo for the beloved trio of Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, promising to challenge fans' expectations of these familiar characters.
Since its inception in October, the Absolute Universe has captivated readers, though keeping up with the multiple ongoing titles can be challenging. Here, we provide a comprehensive guide to the chronology and recommended reading order for DC's Absolute Universe in 2025.
Note: Be mindful not to confuse the Absolute Universe titles with DC’s “Absolute” collected editions, such as the new Absolute Batman: Zero Year, as they are distinct entities!
The Reading Order
For all ongoing series, begin with our suggested reading order, then continue with subsequent issues as they are released. Each main Absolute series will feature a six-issue run and be available in future trade paperback collections.
1. DC All In Special #1 by Scott Snyder, Joshua Williamson, Wes Craig, and Daniel Sampere
This oversized one-shot by architect Scott Snyder sets the stage for the Absolute Universe. Start here before delving into Absolute Batman.
2. Absolute Batman #1 by Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta
Launched in October 2024, Absolute Batman #1 marks the official beginning of the Absolute Universe. It presents a gritty take on the Dark Knight, exploring a scenario where Bruce Wayne is not wealthy, lacks a high-tech Batcave, and misses the grounding presence of Alfred.
3. Absolute Wonder Woman #1 by Kelly Thompson and Hayden Sherman
Released shortly after Absolute Batman #1, this issue reimagines Wonder Woman by flipping the Greek mythos, portraying Diana as a formidable, heavily-armed Amazon warrior in search of her purpose.
4. Absolute Superman #1 by Jason Aaron and Rafa Sandoval
Jason Aaron, known for his work on Southern Bastards and Thor, presents a more relatable Superman in a world where he starts from humble beginnings.
5. Absolute Flash #1 by Jeff Lemire and Nick Robles
Kicking off the 2025 wave, Absolute Flash explores Wally West's journey with speed, devoid of the support of his Flash family or the Speed Force.
6. Absolute Martian Manhunter #1 by Deniz Camp and Javier Rodriguez
The second title in the 2025 wave significantly diverges from the original character. FBI agent John Jones faces a gradual takeover by a Martian, drawing him into a larger conflict.
7. Absolute Green Lantern #1 by Al Ewing and Jahnoy Lindsay
This unique take on the Green Lantern mythos involves four individuals—Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and Jo Mullein—who manage the aftermath of a Green Lantern crash-landing in a small town.
Upcoming Collected Editions
Currently, only the first three Absolute titles have announced 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
While this is all the Absolute Universe has planned for now, we anticipate these narratives might converge into a major event or finale by the end of 2025 or later, with more heroes possibly receiving the Absolute treatment in the future.
