DC's All In publishing initiative is a thrilling venture that allows powerhouse creators to explore iconic heroes free from the shackles of pre-existing continuity. Spearheaded by the renowned Scott Snyder, a Batman veteran, and Joshua Williamson, a long-time Flash writer, the initiative features the Absolute Universe, which follows and expands upon the Absolute Power arc from late 2024. This new ongoing arc sets a fresh status quo for the beloved trio of Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, promising to subvert all expectations for fans of these legendary characters.
Since its launch in October, the Absolute Universe has been captivating readers, though keeping up with its multiple ongoing titles can be challenging. To help you navigate this expansive universe, we've compiled the chronology and reading order for DC's Absolute Universe in 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, we recommend starting with our suggested reading order and then following with subsequent issues as they are released. Each main Absolute series will consist of a six-issue run and will eventually be collected into trade paperback editions.
1. DC All In Special #1 by Scott Snyder, Joshua Williamson, Wes Craig, and Daniel Sampere
This oversized one-shot, crafted by the visionary Scott Snyder, lays the groundwork for the Absolute Universe. It's the essential starting point before diving into Absolute Batman.
2. Absolute Batman #1 by Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta
Launched in October 2024, Absolute Batman #1 marks the true beginning of the Absolute Universe. It presents a gritty new perspective on the Dark Knight, exploring a scenario where Bruce Wayne is not wealthy, lacks a high-tech Batcave, and is without Alfred's stabilizing influence.
3. Absolute Wonder Woman #1 by Kelly Thompson and Hayden Sherman
Released shortly after Absolute Batman #1, this reimagining of Wonder Woman flips the Greek mythos on its head. It portrays Diana as a formidable, heavily armed Amazon warrior on a quest for purpose.
4. Absolute Superman #1 by Jason Aaron and Rafa Sandoval
Penned by comics legend Jason Aaron, known for Southern Bastards and Thor, Absolute Superman delves into what life would be like for the Man of Steel if he started from nothing, making him more relatable to readers.
5. Absolute Flash #1 by Jeff Lemire and Nick Robles
Kicking off the 2025 wave of the initiative, Absolute Flash sees Wally West mastering the art of speed without the support of his Flash family or the Speed Force, presenting a fresh challenge for the hero.
6. Absolute Martian Manhunter #1 by Deniz Camp and Javier Rodriguez
The second entry in the 2025 wave, this title takes a significant departure from the original character. FBI agent John Jones finds himself battling for control of his mind and body as a Martian entity draws him into a conflict far beyond his initial understanding.
7. Absolute Green Lantern #1 by Al Ewing and Jahnoy Lindsay
This innovative take on the Green Lantern mythos introduces not one, but four individuals who have previously donned the Green Lantern mantle. Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and Jo Mullein tackle the aftermath of a massive Green Lantern crash-landing in a small town.
Upcoming Collected Editions
Currently, release dates for collected editions have been announced for the first three Absolute titles:
- 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 are the immediate offerings from the Absolute Universe, but fans can anticipate more developments, possibly culminating in a major event or finale towards the end of 2025, with additional heroes receiving the Absolute treatment in future narratives.
