DC's Absolute Universe: Chronological Reading Guide

DC's All In publishing initiative, spearheaded by comics legends Scott Snyder and Joshua Williamson, offers creators the freedom to explore iconic heroes outside of traditional continuity. A key part of this initiative is the Absolute Universe, which follows up on the Absolute Power arc from late 2024. This ongoing series introduces a new status quo for Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, promising to challenge fans' expectations of these beloved characters.

Since its launch in October, the Absolute Universe has captivated readers, but with multiple concurrent titles, it can be challenging to follow the narrative. Here's a comprehensive guide to the chronology and reading order for DC's Absolute Universe in 2025.

Note: It's important not to confuse the Absolute Universe series with DC's "Absolute" collected editions, such as the new Absolute Batman: Zero Year. These are distinct and unrelated.

The Reading Order

For all ongoing series, begin with our recommended reading order, then follow the release order for subsequent issues. Each main series in the Absolute Universe will consist of six issues, eventually collected into trade paperbacks.

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 by architect Scott Snyder sets the stage for the Absolute Universe. Start here before diving into Absolute Batman.

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

Absolute Batman #1

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Launched in October 2024, Absolute Batman #1 marks the true beginning of the Absolute Universe, presenting a gritty new take on the Dark Knight. What if Bruce Wayne was not wealthy, lacked a high-tech Batcave, and had no Alfred to keep him grounded?

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

Absolute Wonder Woman #1

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Released shortly after Absolute Batman #1, this series reimagines Wonder Woman, turning Greek mythos on its head. Here, Diana is depicted as a heavily armed Amazon warrior on a quest for purpose.

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

Absolute Superman #1

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Written by Jason Aaron, known for Southern Bastards and Thor, Absolute Superman explores what would happen if the Man of Steel came from humble beginnings, making him more relatable to readers.

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

Absolute Flash #1

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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

Absolute Martian Manhunter #1

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

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

Absolute Green Lantern #1

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This series reimagines the Green Lantern mythos, focusing on four individuals—Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and Jo Mullein—as they deal with the aftermath of a Green Lantern crash-landing in a small town.

Upcoming Collected Editions

Currently, release dates for the 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

This is the current lineup for the Absolute Universe. However, fans can anticipate further developments, possibly culminating in a major event by the end of 2025 or beyond, with more heroes potentially receiving the Absolute treatment.