DC's Absolute Universe: A Chronological Reading Guide

DC's All In publishing initiative, led by the esteemed Scott Snyder and Joshua Williamson, offers a unique opportunity for top creators to explore iconic heroes in a universe free from the shackles of continuity. A key component of this initiative is the Absolute Universe, which follows the dramatic conclusion of the Absolute Power arc in late 2024. This new, ongoing storyline reimagines the legendary trio of Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, promising to challenge fans' expectations of these well-known characters.

Since its inception in October, the Absolute Universe has been a thrilling rollercoaster of narratives across multiple titles. Keeping up with the sequence of events can be daunting, so here's a comprehensive guide to the chronology and recommended reading order for DC's Absolute Universe in 2025.

Important Note: Don't mix up the Absolute Universe titles with DC's "Absolute" collected editions, such as the recent Absolute Batman: Zero Year. They are entirely separate.

The Reading Order

Start with our suggested reading sequence for the ongoing series, then follow the release order for subsequent issues. Each main Absolute series is planned to span six issues, with future trade paperback collections on the horizon.

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, masterfully crafted by Scott Snyder, sets the stage for the entire Absolute Universe. It's essential to read this 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. It presents a gritty, unconventional take on Batman, exploring a scenario where Bruce Wayne isn't wealthy, lacks a high-tech Batcave, and doesn't have Alfred to keep him grounded.

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

### Absolute Wonder Woman #1

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Following closely on the heels of Absolute Batman #1, this issue reimagines Wonder Woman by flipping the traditional Greek mythos. Here, Diana is portrayed as a formidable, 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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Penned by Jason Aaron, renowned for Southern Bastards and Thor, Absolute Superman #1 delves into a more grounded version of the Man of Steel, exploring his journey from humble beginnings.

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 #1 thrusts Wally West into a world where he must master speed without the aid 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 offers a dramatic departure from the original character. FBI agent John Jones grapples with a Martian takeover of his body and mind, pulling him into a vast, unforeseen conflict.

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

### Absolute Green Lantern #1

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In this fresh take on the Green Lantern mythos, four individuals—Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and Jo Mullein—confront the aftermath of a Green Lantern crash-landing in a small town.

Upcoming Collected Editions

Currently, release dates for collected editions are scheduled for the first three Absolute titles:

• Absolute Batman Vol. 1: The Zoo releases on August 5
• Absolute Wonder Woman Vol. 1: The Last Amazon releases on August 12
• Absolute Superman Vol. 1: The Last Dust of Krypton releases on August 19

While this outlines the immediate future of the Absolute Universe, there's potential for these stories to converge in a significant event or finale by the end of 2025 or later, possibly expanding to include more heroes in the Absolute narrative.