DC's Absolute Universe: Chronological Reading Guide

DC's All In publishing initiative offers renowned creators the opportunity to reimagine some of the label's most iconic heroes, free from the shackles of established continuity. Spearheaded by comics legends Scott Snyder and Joshua Williamson, the initiative includes the Absolute Universe, a groundbreaking arc following the Absolute Power storyline from late 2024. This new ongoing narrative redefines the status quo for beloved characters like Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, delivering unexpected twists that will captivate fans familiar with these heroes.

Since its launch in October, the Absolute Universe has been expanding across multiple titles, making it challenging to follow the storyline. Here, we provide a comprehensive guide to the chronology and reading order for DC's Absolute Universe in 2025.

Note: Be aware that the Absolute Universe titles are distinct from DC's "Absolute" collected editions, such as the new Absolute Batman: Zero Year, which are omnibuses or compendiums and not related to the All In initiative.

The Reading Order

Begin with our recommended sequence for the ongoing series, then proceed with subsequent issues according to their release dates. Each main Absolute series will consist of six issues, eventually collected into trade paperback editions.

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

### DC All In Special #1

0See it at AmazonThis oversized one-shot, crafted by the visionary 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

### Absolute Batman #1

1See it at AmazonLaunched in October 2024, Absolute Batman #1 marks the true beginning of the Absolute Universe. It offers a gritty, fresh take on the Dark Knight, imagining a Bruce Wayne without wealth, high-tech gadgets, or the stabilizing presence of Alfred.

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

### Absolute Wonder Woman #1

0See it at AmazonReleased shortly after Absolute Batman #1, this issue reimagines Wonder Woman, flipping the Greek mythos on its head. Diana is depicted as a formidable, heavily armed Amazon warrior seeking her purpose.

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

### Absolute Superman #1

0See it at AmazonPenned by Jason Aaron, renowned for Southern Bastards and Thor, Absolute Superman explores how the Man of Steel would cope if he came from humble beginnings, making him more relatable to readers.

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

### Absolute Flash #1

0See it at AmazonKicking off the second wave of the initiative in 2025, Absolute Flash delves into Wally West's journey as he learns to navigate the complexities and limitations of speed without the support of his Flash family or the Speed Force.

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

### Absolute Martian Manhunter #1

0See it at AmazonThe second title in the 2025 wave, this series presents a dramatic departure from the original character. FBI agent John Jones faces a terrifying transformation as a Martian slowly takes over his body and mind, drawing him into a vast conflict.

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

### Absolute Green Lantern #1

0See it at AmazonThis innovative take on the Green Lantern mythos involves four former bearers of the title: Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and Jo Mullein. They must manage the aftermath of a 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 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

Looking ahead, the Absolute Universe promises more exciting developments. We anticipate these narratives might converge in a grand finale or event toward the end of 2025, with additional heroes potentially receiving the Absolute treatment in the future.