DC's All In publishing initiative offers top-tier creators the opportunity to write some of the label's most legendary characters, free from the constraints of established continuity. Championed by comic book legend and Batman veteran Scott Snyder alongside longtime Flash writer Joshua Williamson, All In introduces the Absolute Universe, the culmination and continuation of the Absolute Power storyline that concluded in 2024. This new, ongoing narrative establishes a fresh status quo for the iconic trinity of Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, defying expectations for readers familiar with these heroes.
The Absolute Universe launched in October and continues to expand, but with multiple series running concurrently, it can be challenging to follow the timeline and reading sequence. This guide breaks down the chronological reading order for DC's Absolute Universe in 2025.
Note: Do not confuse Absolute Universe comic titles with DC's "Absolute" collected editions, such as omnibuses or compendiums like the new Absolute Batman: Zero Year. They are unrelated.
The Reading Order
For all ongoing series, begin with our recommended reading order, then follow with subsequent issues in the sequence of their release. Each main Absolute series is planned as a six-issue run, with future trade paperback collections to follow.
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, crafted by architect Scott Snyder, lays the foundation for the Absolute Universe. Start your journey here before diving into Absolute Batman.
2. Absolute Batman #1 by Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta
Absolute Batman #1
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First released in October 2024, Absolute Batman #1 marks the true beginning of the Absolute Universe, presenting a gritty new vision of the Dark Knight. This story explores a world where Bruce Wayne isn't wealthy, lacks a high-tech Batcave, and must navigate his mission without the guidance of his trusted butler, Alfred.
3. Absolute Wonder Woman #1 by Kelly Thompson and Hayden Sherman
Absolute Wonder Woman #1
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Arriving in late October, just weeks after Absolute Batman #1, this interpretation of Wonder Woman reimagines her mythos, portraying Diana as a formidable, heavily-armed Amazon warrior in search of her destiny.
4. Absolute Superman #1 by Jason Aaron and Rafa Sandoval
Absolute Superman #1
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Written by acclaimed comics writer Jason Aaron, known for Southern Bastards and Thor, Absolute Superman continues the theme of reimagining heroes with humble beginnings. This version of the Man of Steel is crafted to be more grounded and relatable.
5. Absolute Flash #1 by Jeff Lemire and Nick Robles
Absolute Flash #1
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Kicking off the initiative's second wave in 2025, Absolute Flash follows Wally West as he masters the powers and limitations of super-speed. The twist: he has no Flash family or Speed Force to support him in this universe.
6. Absolute Martian Manhunter #1 by Deniz Camp and Javier Rodriguez
Absolute Martian Manhunter #1
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The second release of the 2025 wave presents perhaps the most radical reinterpretation. FBI agent John Jones finds his body and mind slowly assimilated by a Martian, pulling him into an interstellar conflict far beyond his comprehension.
7. Absolute Green Lantern #1 by Al Ewing and Jahnoy Lindsay
Absolute Green Lantern #1
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This reimagining of the Green Lantern legend brings together not one, but four individuals who have held the title: Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and the newer recruit, Jo Mullein. They must confront the aftermath of a massive Green Lantern crash-landing in a small town.
Upcoming Collected Editions
Currently, only the first three Absolute titles have scheduled release dates for their collected editions:
Absolute Batman Vol. 1: The Zoo releases August 5Absolute Wonder Woman Vol. 1: The Last Amazon releases August 12Absolute Superman Vol. 1: The Last Dust of Krypton releases August 19
For the time being, this constitutes the full scope of the Absolute Universe. However, it would not be surprising to see these narratives build toward their own climactic event by the end of 2025 or later, potentially introducing more heroes re-envisioned through the Absolute lens.
