Essential DC Heroes That Deserve Their Universe Debut: Key Changes DC Should Consider

Fans worldwide are enthusiastically embracing DC Comics’ innovative Absolute Universe. Even though it has only been a brief period since its launch, readers are captivated by the fresh interpretation of legendary heroes. This growing excitement raises the question: When can we expect to see more beloved characters introduced into this captivating universe?

The Absolute Universe is fundamentally shaped by Darkseid’s ideals, creating a landscape rife with corruption and malevolence. Though a few heroes have emerged, they confront enhanced adversities compared to their counterparts in the Prime DC Universe, often missing key elements that make their journeys familiar. Currently, this universe features a limited roster of heroes, sparking speculation about who might join their ranks and the formidable obstacles they would likely encounter.

10 Supergirl

No Cousin. No Earth. Absolute Achiever.

Supergirl cover by Bilquis Evely
Supergirl cover by Josh Middleton
Supergirl cover by Scott Forbes
Supergirl primary cover by Sophie Campbell
Supergirl variant cover by Artgerm

Readers are just beginning to explore the Absolute Universe’s version of Superman, who feels isolated. Traditionally, Superman’s family member, Supergirl, is a much-anticipated addition to this narrative. Insights from Absolute Superman #5 suggest that other Kryptonians escaped, indicating that Kara might also exist in this universe.

Yet, what if Kara Zor-El never reached Earth? Could her escape pod have landed on another world, perhaps one that still allowed her to harness her powers under a yellow sun? This unique scenario could challenge Supergirl to carve her own identity as a hero independent of Superman. Such a twist would provide a fascinating reinterpretation of her origin story.

9 Swamp Thing

No Green. No Love. Absolute Elemental.

Swamp Thing and Poison Ivy variant cover
Swamp Thing artwork

This iteration of Alec Holland may retain his typical powers; however, he would navigate a vastly different reality devoid of meaningful connections. In line with the Absolute Universe’s framework, he would be cut off from the mystical “Green,”complicating his mission to protect the Earth and amplifying his solitary struggle.

8 Doom Patrol

No Safety. No Stability. Absolute Weirdness.

Doom Patrol group shot

The Absolute Universe represents a realm of constant challenges, and few confront more adversity than the Doom Patrol. It’s likely that, instead of banding together as a super-team, the characters would initially be imprisoned within a covert government facility due to their origins linked to Niles Caulder’s experiments.

However, these members would surely find a way to escape, emerging from the clutches of control. Each member—Robotman, Elasti-Woman, Crazy Jane, and Negative Man—would undergo significant growth, ultimately forging a unique and formidable team despite the lack of a safe haven.

7 Black Canary

No Control. No Training. Absolute Independence.

Black Canary using her powers

In the Absolute Universe, the circumstances for many heroes, including Black Canary, are drastically transformed. Suppose Dinah’s iconic Canary Cry became sufficiently powerful yet entirely uncontrollable? How would this alter her interactions and hero journey?

In such a world, Dinah may find herself unable to speak without triggering her cry, leading to her view of her powers shifting from a burden to an asset. As heroes begin to emerge, she would ultimately embrace her abilities to champion justice.

6 Aquaman

No Kingdom. No Followers. Absolute Leader.

Aquaman featured cover

Imagine a world where Aquaman never ascended to kingship. What if Arthur Curry, instead of ruling Atlantis, grew up on the surface, completely oblivious to his heritage? His journey could unfold as he uncovers his aquatic abilities, leading him on an adventurous quest to connect with his heritage and potentially reignite the glory of Atlantis.

5 Harley Quinn

No Ivy. No Arkham. Absolute Harley.

Harley Quinn with her mallet

Harley Quinn’s narrative is often intertwined with the Joker, but consider a scenario where this relationship never exists. Would Harleen Quinzel still evolve into Harley Quinn? Without the Joker’s influence, Harley would need to navigate her identity alone without Poison Ivy too. When she finally encounters Ivy, the dynamic could shift dramatically as she struggles to win Ivy’s affection, enhancing her character development significantly.

4 Zatanna

No Connections. No Spells. Absolute Magician.

Zatanna variant cover

In the Absolute Universe, heroes may find their powers reimagined. What if Zatanna’s magic were limited to stage tricks instead of true sorcery? This intriguing take could depict her as she grows from performance illusions towards mastering authentic magical powers in a world overshadowed by darkness.

3 Green Arrow

No Home. No Company. Absolute Fighter.

Green Arrow close-up

What if Green Arrow spent his formative years marooned on an island rather than just a brief time as an adult? This alternative journey would shape Oliver Queen differently, allowing him to return to civilization as a man of principles, ready to challenge corruption and use his newfound powers to fight for justice.

2 Nightwing

No Mentor. No Friends. Absolute Underdog.

Nightwing cover

In this alternative universe, without Batman as a mentor, Dick Grayson might also find himself on a different path, growing just as gifted but without guidance. His struggle to establish himself as a vigilante would create a unique dimension to Nightwing’s character, emphasizing his independence and grit.

1 Shazam

No Wizard. No Family. Absolute Champion.

Shazam with lightning

For Billy Batson, a.k.a. Shazam, the Absolute Universe brings formidable challenges, particularly as he faces them without a mentor or a supportive family. His journey could embody the essence of resilience, as he learns to wield divine strength independently, ultimately having to confront powerful adversaries like Black Adam or Doctor Sivana.

Although Billy might eventually find a new family, his initial quest would involve proving himself worthy of extraordinary powers, significantly enhancing his character arc.

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