"Guide to Reading DC's Absolute Universe Chronologically"

DC's All In publishing initiative is a thrilling venture that allows top-tier creators to redefine the iconic heroes of the DC universe without the shackles of established continuity. Spearheaded by the legendary Scott Snyder and Joshua Williamson, this initiative includes the groundbreaking Absolute Universe, which builds on the momentum of the Absolute Power arc from late 2024. Starting in October, Absolute Universe ushers in a new era for the beloved trio of Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, promising to defy all expectations for these well-known characters.

With multiple ongoing titles, it's easy to lose track of the narrative threads, release dates, and character developments. Here's a comprehensive guide to 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 Absolute Batman: Zero Year omnibus, as they are entirely separate.

The Reading Order

Begin with the suggested reading order for each ongoing series, then continue with subsequent issues in their release sequence. Each main Absolute series is slated for a six-issue run and will eventually be available in trade paperback collections.

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

DC All In Special #1

0See it at Amazon 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 the Absolute Batman series.

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

Absolute Batman #1

1See it at Amazon Launched in October 2024, Absolute Batman #1 marks the true beginning of the Absolute Universe. It presents a gritty, reimagined Batman where Bruce Wayne is far from wealthy, lacks the high-tech Batcave, and has no Alfred to keep him grounded.

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

Absolute Wonder Woman #1

0See it at Amazon Published shortly after Absolute Batman #1 at the end of October, this rendition of Wonder Woman turns traditional Greek mythology on its head. Diana emerges as a fierce, heavily armed Amazon warrior in search of her purpose.

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

Absolute Superman #1

0See it at Amazon Penned by the acclaimed Jason Aaron, known for Southern Bastards and Thor, Absolute Superman explores the Man of Steel's journey from humble beginnings, making him more relatable than ever.

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

Absolute Flash #1

0See it at Amazon Kicking off the second wave of the initiative in 2025, Absolute Flash introduces a universe where Wally West must navigate the complexities of speed without the support of the Flash family or the Speed Force.

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

Absolute Martian Manhunter #1

0See it at Amazon The second title in the 2025 wave, Absolute Martian Manhunter presents a radical departure from the original character. FBI agent John Jones finds himself increasingly possessed by a Martian, pulling him into a larger conflict.

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

Absolute Green Lantern #1

0See it at Amazon This fresh take on the Green Lantern mythos focuses on four individuals who have previously held the mantle: Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and Jo Mullein. They must navigate the aftermath of a crashed Green Lantern 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 releases on August 5
• Absolute Wonder Woman Vol. 1: The Last Amazon releases on August 12
• Absolute Superman Vol. 1: The Last Dust of Krypton releases on August 19

While this is the current lineup for the Absolute Universe, we anticipate that these narratives may lead to a grand finale or event by the end of 2025 or later, potentially featuring more heroes in the Absolute style.