DC's Absolute Universe: A Chronological Reading Guide

DC's All In publishing initiative offers top-tier creators the freedom to explore the iconic heroes of the DC universe without the burden of existing continuity. Spearheaded by comics luminaries Scott Snyder and Joshua Williamson, the initiative includes the Absolute Universe, which follows and expands upon the Absolute Power storyline from late 2024. This ambitious ongoing arc introduces a new status quo for Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, delivering fresh narratives that challenge what fans know about these characters.

Since its launch in October, the Absolute Universe has been unfolding across multiple titles, making it challenging to follow the storyline's progression. Here, we provide a detailed chronology and reading order for DC's Absolute Universe in 2025 to keep you up to speed.

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 entirely separate entities!

The Reading Order

For all ongoing series, begin with our suggested reading order, then follow with subsequent issues as they are released. Each main series in the Absolute Universe will consist of six issues and will be later compiled into trade paperback collections.

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

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This oversized one-shot by Scott Snyder lays the groundwork for the Absolute Universe. It's the essential starting point before diving into the main series, particularly Absolute Batman.

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

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Launched in October 2024, Absolute Batman #1 marks the true beginning of the Absolute Universe. It presents a gritty reimagining of Batman, exploring a world where Bruce Wayne is not wealthy, lacks a high-tech Batcave, and has no Alfred to provide guidance.

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

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Released just weeks after Absolute Batman #1, this issue reimagines Wonder Woman, turning the Greek mythos upside down. Diana is depicted as a formidable, heavily armed Amazon warrior on a quest for purpose.

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

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Written by Jason Aaron, known for Southern Bastards and Thor, this issue continues the theme of heroes starting from humble beginnings. Superman is portrayed in a more relatable light, emerging from nothing.

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

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Kicking off the second wave of the initiative in 2025, Absolute Flash sees Wally West navigating the complexities of speed without the support of the Flash family or the Speed Force.

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

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The second title in the 2025 wave, this series presents a significant departure from the original character. FBI agent John Jones finds himself increasingly influenced by a Martian, drawing him into a vast conflict.

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

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This unique take on the Green Lantern mythos involves four former bearers of the title—Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and Jo Mullein—as they deal with the consequences of a crashed Green Lantern in a small town.

Upcoming Collected Editions

As of now, release dates for collected editions of the first three Absolute titles have been announced:

• 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 represents the current scope of the Absolute Universe, we anticipate potential future developments, including a climactic event or series finale by the end of 2025 or later, with more heroes possibly receiving the Absolute treatment.