DC's Absolute Universe: Timeline Guide

DC's All In publishing initiative empowers top-tier creators to reimagine the publisher's most iconic heroes free from established continuity restraints. Spearheaded by comics legend Scott Snyder (Batman) and veteran Flash writer Joshua Williamson, the initiative includes the Absolute Universe - the follow-up to 2024's Absolute Power event. This bold new continuity reinvents DC's Trinity (Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman) with unexpected twists that challenge everything fans know about these characters.

Since its October launch, the Absolute Universe has expanded across multiple ongoing titles, creating some confusion about the timeline and reading order for 2025. Here's our comprehensive guide to navigating DC's latest comic book event.

Important Note: Don't confuse Absolute Universe titles with DC's "Absolute" collected editions line (like Absolute Batman: Zero Year). These are completely separate publications.

The Ultimate Reading Order

Follow this chronological guide before continuing with subsequent issues in release order. All main Absolute series will complete six-issue runs, with trade paperback collections forthcoming.

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

Scott Snyder's oversize one-shot establishes the foundation of Absolute Universe. Essential reading before diving into any character-specific titles.

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

The October 2024 launch title presents a radically different Dark Knight - envisioning Bruce Wayne without wealth, technology, or Alfred's guidance. The gritty reinvention sets the tone for the entire Universe.

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

Late October's debut reimagines Diana Prince as a heavily-armed warrior disconnected from her mythological roots, searching for purpose in a brutal world.

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

Jason Aaron (Southern Bastards, Thor) delivers a grounded Superman who must overcome humble beginnings without traditional Kryptonian advantages.

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

2025's first new launch introduces a solitary Wally West mastering speed abilities without the Flash Family or Speed Force safety net.

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

The most radical reimagining features FBI agent John Jones gradually transforming into J'onn J'onzz amidst an interplanetary conspiracy.

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

Four legacy Lanterns (Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and Jo Mullein) unite when a crashed Lantern spaceship disrupts a small town.

Upcoming Collected Editions

The first three Absolute titles will receive trade paperback collections in August 2025:

• 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)

With the Absolute Universe still expanding, fans can anticipate possible event crossovers by late 2025 and potential reinventions of additional DC heroes.