DC's All In publishing initiative provides top-tier creators with the opportunity to explore some of the label's most iconic heroes without the limitations of established continuity. Spearheaded by comics legends Scott Snyder and Joshua Williamson, the initiative includes the Absolute Universe, a follow-up to the Absolute Power arc that concluded in late 2024. This new ongoing series introduces a fresh status quo for the beloved trio of Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, promising to subvert expectations for fans familiar with these characters.
Since its launch in October, the Absolute Universe has gained momentum, though keeping up with its multiple ongoing titles can be challenging. To help you stay on track, we're here to break down 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. These are distinct and unrelated.
The Reading Order
For all ongoing series, begin with our recommended reading order, then follow with subsequent issues in release order. Each main Absolute series will consist of a six-issue run and will eventually be collected in trade paperback editions.
1. DC All In Special #1 by Scott Snyder, Joshua Williamson, Wes Craig, and Daniel Sampere
DC All In Special #1
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This oversized one-shot by architect Scott Snyder sets the stage for the Absolute Universe. It's the perfect starting point before diving into Absolute Batman.
2. Absolute Batman #1 by Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta
Absolute Batman #1
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First published in October 2024, Absolute Batman #1 marks the true beginning of the Absolute Universe. It presents a gritty, fresh take on the Dark Knight, exploring a world where Bruce Wayne isn't wealthy, lacks a high-tech Batcave, and doesn't have Alfred to keep him grounded.
3. Absolute Wonder Woman #1 by Kelly Thompson and Hayden Sherman
Absolute Wonder Woman #1
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Released at the end of October, just weeks after Absolute Batman #1, this issue reimagines Wonder Woman, turning Greek mythos on its head. It portrays Diana as a heavily armed Amazon warrior on a quest for purpose.
4. Absolute Superman #1 by Jason Aaron and Rafa Sandoval
Absolute Superman #1
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Written by 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
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Kicking off the second wave of the initiative in 2025, Absolute Flash presents a world where Wally West must master 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
Absolute Martian Manhunter #1
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The second entry in the 2025 wave, this title significantly deviates from the original character. FBI agent John Jones finds himself overtaken by a Martian, drawing him into a conflict much larger than he anticipated.
7. Absolute Green Lantern #1 by Al Ewing and Jahnoy Lindsay
Absolute Green Lantern #1
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This issue features four individuals who have previously donned the Green Lantern mantle: Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and Jo Mullein. They must handle the aftermath of a Green Lantern crash-landing in a small town.
Upcoming Collected Editions
Currently, only the first three Absolute titles have announced release dates for collected editions:
- 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
For the foreseeable future, this is what the Absolute Universe has to offer. However, we wouldn't be surprised if these stories lead to a grand finale or event by the end of 2025 or beyond, potentially introducing more heroes to the Absolute treatment.
