DC's All In publishing initiative is a groundbreaking venture that allows top-tier creators to explore the universe of DC's iconic heroes without the shackles of continuity. Spearheaded by acclaimed writers Scott Snyder and Joshua Williamson, the initiative includes the Absolute Universe, a thrilling follow-up to the Absolute Power arc from late 2024. This new saga reimagines the status quo for legendary characters such as Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, delivering fresh narratives that defy traditional expectations.
Since its launch in October, the Absolute Universe has captivated readers with multiple ongoing titles. However, keeping track of the story arcs, timelines, and characters can be challenging. 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" collected editions, such as the new Absolute Batman: Zero Year; these are entirely separate projects!
The Reading Order
For the best experience with these ongoing series, follow our suggested reading order before proceeding with subsequent issues in release order. Each main Absolute series is planned 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 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 the core series, such as 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. This issue presents a gritty, new take on the Dark Knight, imagining a Bruce Wayne without wealth, a high-tech Batcave, 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 just weeks after Absolute Batman #1, this issue flips the script on Wonder Woman's Greek mythos, portraying 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
0See it at AmazonPenned by Jason Aaron, known for his work on Southern Bastards and Thor, this issue explores a more relatable Superman, stripped of his usual advantages and starting from humble beginnings.
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 #1 challenges Wally West to master the art 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 offers a radical reinterpretation of the character, with FBI agent John Jones battling a Martian takeover of his body and mind, drawing him into a vast cosmic 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 individuals—Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and Jo Mullein—as they navigate the aftermath of a Green Lantern crash-landing in a small town.
Upcoming Collected Editions
As of now, only the first three Absolute titles have announced release dates for their collected editions:
- Absolute Batman Vol. 1: The Zoo releases August 5
- Absolute Wonder Woman Vol. 1: The Last Amazon releases August 12
- Absolute Superman Vol. 1: The Last Dust of Krypton releases August 19
While this covers the current scope of the Absolute Universe, we anticipate further developments, possibly culminating in a grand finale or another event by the end of 2025 or later, with more heroes likely to receive the Absolute treatment in the future.
