DC's All In publishing initiative presents a unique opportunity for top-tier creators to redefine some of the most iconic heroes without the burden of pre-existing continuity. Led by industry veterans Scott Snyder and Joshua Williamson, the initiative includes the Absolute Universe, which follows the dramatic conclusion of the Absolute Power arc from late 2024. This ongoing storyline introduces a fresh status quo for the legendary trio of Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, promising to deliver unexpected twists for fans familiar with these characters.

Since its launch in October, Absolute Universe has expanded into multiple ongoing series, making it challenging to follow the overarching narrative, timelines, and character developments. To help fans navigate this expansive universe, we've compiled a comprehensive guide to the chronology and recommended reading order for DC's Absolute Universe in 2025.

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, as they are entirely separate entities!

The Reading Order

For the ongoing series, begin with our suggested reading order and then continue with issues as they are released. Each main Absolute series will run for six issues and will eventually be collected into trade paperback editions.

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

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This oversized one-shot, crafted by the visionary Scott Snyder, lays the groundwork for the Absolute Universe. It's the essential starting point before diving into 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. This issue reimagines Batman in a gritty new light—where Bruce Wayne isn't wealthy, there's no high-tech Batcave, and Alfred isn't there to keep him grounded.

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

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Released just weeks after Absolute Batman #1, this issue offers a bold reinterpretation of Wonder Woman, depicting Diana as a heavily armed Amazon warrior on a quest for purpose, turning the Greek mythos on its head.

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

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Under the pen of Jason Aaron, known for Southern Bastards and Thor, Absolute Superman explores the Man of Steel's journey from humble beginnings, making him more relatable than ever.

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 challenges Wally West to master the art of speed without the support of his 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, Absolute Martian Manhunter, takes a dramatic departure from the original character. FBI agent John Jones faces a takeover by a Martian, drawing him into a conflict far beyond his initial understanding.

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

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This innovative take on the Green Lantern mythos follows four different individuals—Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and Jo Mullein—as they navigate the aftermath of a Green Lantern crash 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 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

For now, these are the highlights of the Absolute Universe's offerings. However, we anticipate further developments, possibly culminating in a grand finale or event towards the end of 2025 or later, with more heroes likely to be reimagined in the Absolute style.