DC's All In publishing initiative offers a unique opportunity for acclaimed creators to redefine some of the publisher's most iconic characters, free from the shackles of established continuity. Led by the visionary duo of Scott Snyder, a Batman veteran, and Joshua Williamson, a long-time Flash writer, the initiative includes the Absolute Universe. This ambitious arc follows the Absolute Power storyline that concluded in late 2024, setting a new stage for Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, promising to challenge fans' preconceptions about these legendary figures.
Since its launch in October, the Absolute Universe has been expanding across multiple titles, which can make following the storyline a bit challenging. To help fans navigate this expansive universe, here's a comprehensive guide to the chronology and recommended reading order for DC's Absolute Universe in 2025.
Note: Don't confuse the Absolute Universe titles with DC's "Absolute" line of collected editions, such as the new Absolute Batman: Zero Year. These are entirely separate!
The Reading Order
For all ongoing series within the Absolute Universe, start with our suggested reading order and then follow the subsequent issues in their release sequence. Each main series will consist of six issues, later collected in trade paperback editions.
1. DC All In Special #1 by Scott Snyder, Joshua Williamson, Wes Craig, and Daniel Sampere
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This oversized one-shot, crafted by the mastermind Scott Snyder, lays the groundwork for the Absolute Universe. It's essential to start here before diving into Absolute Batman.
2. Absolute Batman #1 by Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta
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Launched in October 2024, Absolute Batman #1 marks the official beginning of the Absolute Universe, presenting a raw and gritty reinterpretation of the Dark Knight. Imagine a Bruce Wayne who is not wealthy, lacks the high-tech Batcave, and has no Alfred to keep him anchored.
3. Absolute Wonder Woman #1 by Kelly Thompson and Hayden Sherman
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Released just weeks after Absolute Batman #1, this issue reimagines Wonder Woman by subverting traditional Greek mythology. Here, Diana is depicted as a fierce, heavily armed Amazon warrior on a quest for purpose.
4. Absolute Superman #1 by Jason Aaron and Rafa Sandoval
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Penned by Jason Aaron, renowned for Southern Bastards and Thor, Absolute Superman #1 explores the Man of Steel's journey if he started from humble beginnings, making him more relatable to readers.
5. Absolute Flash #1 by Jeff Lemire and Nick Robles
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Kicking off the second wave of the initiative in 2025, Absolute Flash #1 sees Wally West mastering the art of speed without the support of the Flash family or the Speed Force.
6. Absolute Martian Manhunter #1 by Deniz Camp and Javier Rodriguez
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The second title of the 2025 wave, this series presents a radical departure from the classic Martian Manhunter. FBI agent John Jones finds himself increasingly possessed by a Martian, leading him into a vast, unexpected conflict.
7. Absolute Green Lantern #1 by Al Ewing and Jahnoy Lindsay
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This innovative take on the Green Lantern mythos follows four individuals who have previously held the title: Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and Jo Mullein. They must handle the aftermath of a large Green Lantern crash-landing in a small town.
Upcoming Collected Editions
Currently, release dates have been announced for the collected editions of the first three Absolute titles:
- Absolute Batman Vol. 1: The Zoo, releasing on August 5
- Absolute Wonder Woman Vol. 1: The Last Amazon, releasing on August 12
- Absolute Superman Vol. 1: The Last Dust of Krypton, releasing on August 19
For now, these are the highlights of what the Absolute Universe has to offer. However, fans can anticipate these stories potentially culminating in a grand finale or event towards the end of 2025 or later, with more heroes possibly receiving the Absolute treatment in the future.
