How to Read DC’s Absolute Universe in Chronological Order

DC's All In publishing initiative, masterminded by comics legends Scott Snyder and Joshua Williamson, offers a groundbreaking approach to storytelling by allowing creators to explore iconic characters without the constraints of established continuity. Central to this initiative is the Absolute Universe, a follow-up to the 2024 Absolute Power arc, which reimagines the adventures of Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman in a new, thrilling status quo that defies traditional expectations.

Since its launch in October, the Absolute Universe has captivated fans with its ongoing series. However, keeping up with the event's multiple titles and their chronology can be challenging. Here's a comprehensive guide to the Absolute Universe's reading order for 2025.

Note: It's important not to confuse the Absolute Universe titles with DC's "Absolute" collected editions, such as the Absolute Batman: Zero Year, as they are entirely separate.

The Reading Order

For all ongoing series, start with our recommended reading order, then follow subsequent issues in their release order. Each main Absolute series will run for six issues and will eventually be collected in trade paperback editions.

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

### DC All In Special #1

0See it at AmazonThis oversized one-shot, crafted by the visionary Scott Snyder, lays the groundwork for the Absolute Universe. It's the essential starting point before delving into Absolute Batman.

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

### Absolute Batman #1

1See it at AmazonLaunched in October 2024, Absolute Batman #1 marks the true beginning of the Absolute Universe. It presents a gritty, reimagined Batman where Bruce Wayne is not wealthy, lacks a high-tech Batcave, and has no Alfred to keep him grounded.

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

### Absolute Wonder Woman #1

0See it at AmazonPublished shortly after Absolute Batman #1, this series reimagines Wonder Woman, turning Greek mythos on its head. Diana is depicted as a heavily armed Amazon warrior on a quest for purpose.

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

### Absolute Superman #1

0See it at AmazonJason Aaron, known for his work on Southern Bastards and Thor, presents a more relatable Superman, exploring how the Man of Steel would cope if he came from humble beginnings.

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

### Absolute Flash #1

0See it at AmazonKicking off the second wave 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

### Absolute Martian Manhunter #1

0See it at AmazonThe second entry in the 2025 wave, this series offers a dramatic departure from the original character. FBI agent John Jones finds himself overtaken by a Martian, pulling him into a larger conflict.

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

### Absolute Green Lantern #1

0See it at AmazonThis unique take on the Green Lantern mythos features four individuals—Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and Jo Mullein—dealing with the aftermath of a crashed Green Lantern in a small town.

Upcoming Collected Editions

Currently, only the first three Absolute titles have announced release dates for their collected editions:

• 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

The Absolute Universe promises to keep fans engaged with its fresh takes on beloved heroes. There's potential for these stories to lead to a culminating event by the end of 2025, possibly expanding to include even more heroes in the Absolute treatment.