If you're a fan of DC Comics, you've likely heard about DC’s All In publishing initiative—a bold new direction that gives top-tier creators the freedom to reimagine some of the publisher's most legendary characters outside the boundaries of established continuity. Spearheaded by acclaimed writers Scott Snyder and Joshua Williamson—both known for their iconic runs on Batman and The Flash respectively—the initiative includes the launch of the Absolute Universe, a major narrative evolution following the events of the Absolute Power arc from late 2024.
This groundbreaking storyline ushers in a fresh status quo for DC’s Trinity: Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, offering stories that challenge everything fans think they know about these beloved heroes. But with multiple titles launching throughout 2024 and into 2025, it can be tricky to keep track of what comes when and in which order. To help you stay on top of all the action, here’s the definitive chronological reading guide for DC’s Absolute Universe in 2025.
Note: Don’t confuse the Absolute Universe series with DC’s "Absolute Editions"—those premium hardcover collections like Absolute Batman: Zero Year. They’re entirely separate!
The Reading Order
All ongoing series in the Absolute Universe follow a six-issue arc structure and will eventually be collected into trade paperbacks. For the best experience, start with our recommended reading order below and then continue with each title’s subsequent issues as they release.
1. DC All In Special #1 – Scott Snyder, Joshua Williamson, Wes Craig, Daniel Sampere
### DC All In Special #1
0See it at AmazonThis oversized one-shot sets the stage for the entire Absolute Universe, introducing key themes and plot threads that will ripple through every series. Think of it as your essential starting point before diving into Absolute Batman.
2. Absolute Batman #1 – Scott Snyder & Nick Dragotta
### Absolute Batman #1
1See it at AmazonLaunched in October 2024, this is where the Absolute Universe officially begins. This gritty reimagining asks a compelling question: What if Bruce Wayne had no wealth, no Batcave, and no Alfred? It’s a raw, grounded take on the Dark Knight that strips away the legend to reveal the man beneath the mask.
3. Absolute Wonder Woman #1 – Kelly Thompson & Hayden Sherman
### Absolute Wonder Woman #1
0See it at AmazonReleased just weeks after Absolute Batman #1, this version of Wonder Woman breaks away from traditional Greek mythology. Here, Diana emerges as a fierce, battle-hardened Amazon warrior searching for her place in a world that may not understand her strength—or her mission.
4. Absolute Superman #1 – Jason Aaron & Rafa Sandoval
### Absolute Superman #1
0See it at AmazonFrom comics legend Jason Aaron (known for Southern Bastards and Marvel’s Thor) comes a grounded retelling of the Man of Steel. This Superman is more human than ever, navigating life without his familiar comforts, making for a deeply emotional and relatable origin story.
5. Absolute Flash #1 – Jeff Lemire & Nick Robles
### Absolute Flash #1
0See it at AmazonKicking off the second wave of Absolute Universe titles in 2025, this issue follows Wally West as he grapples with the limits of speed. Without the Flash family or the Speed Force to back him up, this version of the Flash explores isolation, discovery, and the cost of power.
6. Absolute Martian Manhunter #1 – Deniz Camp & Javier Rodriguez
### Absolute Martian Manhunter #1
0See it at AmazonAlso part of the 2025 rollout, this story takes a dramatic turn from the original character concept. FBI agent John Jones finds himself slowly being overtaken by an alien presence, thrusting him into a cosmic conflict far beyond anything he’s ever encountered.
7. Absolute Green Lantern #1 – Al Ewing & Jahnoy Lindsay
### Absolute Green Lantern #1
0See it at AmazonThis unique take features four past bearers of the Green Lantern mantle—Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and Jo Mullein—as they confront the aftermath of a mysterious crash landing in a small American town. It’s a fresh start for the Green Lantern mythos within the Absolute Universe.
Upcoming Collected Editions
So far, only the first three Absolute Universe titles have announced paperback collections:
- Absolute Batman Vol. 1: The Zoo – August 5
- Absolute Wonder Woman Vol. 1: The Last Amazon – August 12
- Absolute Superman Vol. 1: The Last Dust of Krypton – August 19
While this marks the current scope of the Absolute Universe, don't be surprised if these interconnected stories lead to a larger crossover event or finale sometime toward the end of 2025—or even beyond. With plans already in motion to bring more heroes into the Absolute fold, this is only the beginning of a bold new era for DC Comics.
Stay tuned for updates, and get ready to see your favorite heroes like never before.
