DC's Absolute Universe: Chronological Reading Guide

DC's All In publishing initiative offers top creators the opportunity to reimagine the label's most iconic heroes, free from the shackles of pre-existing continuity. Spearheaded by comics legends Scott Snyder and Joshua Williamson, the initiative includes the Absolute Universe, which serves as both the culmination of and a follow-up to the Absolute Power arc from late 2024. This ongoing narrative introduces a fresh status quo for the legendary trio of Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, promising to challenge fans' preconceived notions about these beloved characters.

Since its launch in October, the Absolute Universe has expanded across multiple ongoing titles. Keeping up with the storyline, its timeline, and character developments can be challenging. Therefore, we're here to provide a comprehensive guide to the chronology and reading order of DC's Absolute Universe in 2025.

Note: It's important to differentiate between Absolute Universe titles and DC's "Absolute" line of collected editions, such as the new Absolute Batman: Zero Year. These are distinct and unrelated collections.

The Reading Order

For each ongoing series, begin with our suggested reading order, then follow with subsequent issues as they are released. Each main Absolute series will consist of six issues, which will eventually be compiled into trade paperback collections.

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

This oversized one-shot, crafted by Scott Snyder, lays the groundwork for the Absolute Universe. Start here before diving into Absolute Batman to fully appreciate the new narrative landscape.

2. Absolute Batman #1 by Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta

Launched in October 2024, Absolute Batman #1 marks the official beginning of the Absolute Universe. This issue presents a gritty, reimagined Batman, exploring a scenario where Bruce Wayne lacks wealth, a high-tech Batcave, and the grounding influence of Alfred.

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

Released at the end of October 2024, shortly after Absolute Batman #1, this series offers a bold new take on Wonder Woman. Here, Diana is portrayed as a heavily armed Amazon warrior on a quest for purpose, challenging traditional Greek mythos.

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

Penned by Jason Aaron, known for his work on Southern Bastards and Thor, Absolute Superman #1 delves into the life of a Superman who originates from humble beginnings, making the Man of Steel more relatable than ever.

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

Kicking off the second wave of the initiative in 2025, Absolute Flash #1 reimagines Wally West's journey. Without the support of the Flash family or the Speed Force, Wally must navigate his powers and their limitations alone.

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

The second title in the 2025 wave, Absolute Martian Manhunter #1, presents a dramatic departure from the character's traditional narrative. FBI agent John Jones faces a gradual takeover by a Martian, drawing him into a vast, unforeseen conflict.

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

This series introduces a unique twist on the Green Lantern mythos, featuring four individuals—Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and Jo Mullein—who must contend with the consequences of a crashed Green Lantern in a small town.

Upcoming Collected Editions

As of now, only the first three Absolute titles have confirmed release dates for their collected editions:

• 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 these are the current offerings from the Absolute Universe, there's potential for more stories and even a culminating event by the end of 2025 or beyond, with additional heroes possibly receiving the Absolute treatment in the future.