The recently launched Absolute titles by DC Comics have quickly captivated audiences, depicting a universe rich with dramatic and memorable moments. This new initiative, known as DC’s All In, comprises six distinct titles, each expanding the horizon of the DC Universe while delivering intense and compelling narratives.
The inception of the Absolute Universe was marked by the death of Darkseid, whose energy manifested itself on Earth-Alpha. This event painted a landscape where hope becomes the underdog, grappling with profound adversity. The heroes within this realm confront challenges that far surpass those faced by their counterparts in the Prime Universe. Join us as we explore 10 pivotal moments that define DC Comics’ Absolute Universe thus far.
10
Absolute Wonder Woman #4
Diana Shows Off Powerful Blood Magic
In the first arc of Absolute Wonder Woman, Diana valiantly defends Gateway City against the formidable Tetracide, a creature capable of human annihilation. Despite her strategic prowess, she faces a significant hurdle—she’s missing an arm. To heal her injuries, she and Steve Trevor embark on a quest to obtain crucial herbs from Etta Candy and her sister, Gia.
However, Diana’s healing requirements extend beyond herbal remedies; she also needs blood. In a fervent act of devotion, Steve, Etta, and Gia willingly offer their blood for Diana’s ritual. As she appeals to Hecate for help, she ultimately receives her deserved reward: a new arm, a scene that sets this version of Diana apart from her Prime Universe self.
9
Absolute Batman #2/3
Debut of the Brand-New Batmobile
In Absolute Batman, Bruce Wayne contends with the ruthless Party Animals, one of Gotham’s most dangerous gangs. During his investigation of mayoral candidate Hamilton Hill, Batman is ambushed and narrowly escapes into a control room where Alfred awaits. To Batman’s surprise, this “room” is actually an elaborate version of his new Batmobile.
This precisely engineered vehicle, reminiscent of a fortified industrial truck, is armed to the hilt and boasts the ability to adapt mid-chase. This innovative version of the Batmobile not only exemplifies Batman’s tactical mindset but also highlights how his resourcefulness shines in battling Gotham’s criminals.
8
Absolute Green Lantern #1
Hal Jordan Turns to the Dark Side
In a gripping start to Absolute Green Lantern, Hal Jordan finds himself in a precarious position after unwittingly interacting with a Green Lantern-like construct. This encounter leads to a transformation where Hal’s hand becomes engulfed in uncontrollable dark energy. As Hal struggles to grip this newfound power, he inadvertently puts those around him in peril.
As aggressive reactions from locals escalate, Hal is compelled to reveal his hand, triggering catastrophic consequences. His struggle to contain this menacing force encapsulates the harrowing challenges faced within the Absolute Universe.
7
Absolute Batman #5
Batman Burns Millions in Signal to Criminals
Despite limited resources, Batman mounts a formidable strike against Black Mask and the Party Animals. When Black Mask offers Bruce a peace treaty involving $200 million, Bruce accepts but with a twist. Instead of using the money for personal gain, he channels it into a symbolic act by igniting the cash atop a floodlight to broadcast his version of the Bat-signal.
This dramatic gesture not only reaffirms Batman’s principles but also emphasizes that he remains committed to his mission, unburdened by financial constraints.
6
Absolute Wonder Woman #5
Diana Becomes a Monster to Fight a Monster
Faced with insurmountable odds against the Tetracide, Absolute Wonder Woman #5 sees Diana wield her powerful Sacrifice lasso—a weapon crafted by her mother Circe that enables transformative powers. Instead of using it on her foe, she binds the lasso around her own arm, morphing into a monstrous Medusa-like figure, showcasing the lengths to which she will go to protect others.
5
Absolute Flash #1
A Legacy Dies Before It’s Born
In Absolute Flash #1, Wally West experiences the tragedy of losing his mentor, Barry Allen. As Wally befriends Barry, who is working on Project Olympus, an unexpected accident during a critical experiment drastically alters Wally’s life. The resulting chaos imbues him with uncontrollable speed but also marks the tragic moment of Barry’s death.
This harrowing beginning not only lays the groundwork for Wally’s journey but also instills a haunting sense of loss that will profoundly impact his character moving forward.
4
Absolute Superman #5
Kal-El Loses Krypton and His Family
The opening arcs of Absolute Superman weave a poignant narrative detailing Kal-El’s traumatic childhood on Krypton. Flashbacks reveal his harrowing experiences witnessing his family’s persecution as their planet crumbled due to corruption and greed. In a desperate bid, Kal-El and his parents construct a ship to save a few Kryptonians, but their efforts are marred by tragedy as their escape ultimately scatters them apart.
The image of his parent’s ship fracturing into pieces imprints upon Superman’s psyche, continuing to haunt him in this alternate universe.
3
Absolute Batman #1
Bruce Wayne Debuts His Powerful Weaponry
In a Gotham plagued by crime due to the Party Animals, Bruce Wayne must step up as the formidable Absolute Batman. This debut showcases his innovative multi-functional batsuit, equipped with a variety of powerful gadgets. During an attack on a town hall, Batman reveals a brutal array of weaponry, including extendable spikes and hidden batarangs, showcasing not just strength, but his creative ingenuity in battle.
The impact of this confrontation demonstrates that Absolute Batman’s greatest asset lies not only in his combat skills but in his strategic mindset.
2
Absolute Martian Manhunter #1
Readers Experience Martian Vision
Celebrated by its creators, Absolute Martian Manhunter first issue opens with a breathtaking narrative. When FBI agent John Jones is caught in an explosion, he begins seeing strange smoke and hearing an enigmatic voice. This captivating experience is magnified by a dual-page visual that requires a light source to truly appreciate, presenting the Martian’s consciousness intertwined with John’s mind.
This unique storytelling approach elevates the series, highlighting its distinctiveness within the Absolute line.
1
Absolute Wonder Woman #3
Diana’s Heartfelt Appeal to a City in Danger
In a climactic moment of Absolute Wonder Woman, Diana delivers a poignant message to the citizens of Gateway City. Realizing the urgency posed by the Tetracide, she takes to live media to warn the public about the impending danger. With unwavering faith in humanity, she urges residents to remain calm and compassionate to one another as she prepares to take drastic actions to protect them.
This moment encapsulates Wonder Woman’s enduring spirit, reminding us that, regardless of the trials within the Absolute Universe, she remains the guiding light in humanity’s darkest hours.