DC's All In publishing initiative grants superstar creators creative freedom to reinterpret DC's most legendary heroes outside regular continuity. Spearheaded by Batman veteran Scott Snyder and Flash writer Joshua Williamson, this includes the Absolute Universe - a bold reimagining following 2024's Absolute Power storyline. Launching an ongoing saga, it reinvents DC's trinity (Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman) in ways that will defy longtime fans' expectations.

The Complete Reading Guide

With multiple interconnected titles, tracking DC's Absolute Universe timeline can be confusing. Here's our definitive 2025 reading order for this groundbreaking initiative.

Note: These are separate from DC's "Absolute Edition" collected volumes like Absolute Batman: Zero Year - the branding is coincidental!

Core Reading Order

All main Absolute Universe series feature six-issue arcs, with collected editions forthcoming. Follow this sequence, then continue with subsequent issues by release date.

1. DC All In Special #1

Scott Snyder's oversized one-shot establishes the Absolute Universe foundation - essential reading before exploring individual titles.

2. Absolute Batman #1

This October 2024 debut presents a stripped-down Bruce Wayne - no fortune, no Batcave, no Alfred - delivering the grittiest Dark Knight yet.

3. Absolute Wonder Woman #1

Kelly Thompson reimagines Diana as a battle-hardened Amazon mercenary, transforming Greek mythology roots into a fresh warrior narrative.

4. Absolute Superman #1

Jason Aaron (Thor) crafts a grounded Man of Steel - an approachable hero rising from humble beginnings without traditional Kryptonian advantages.

5. Absolute Flash #1

2025's first wave entry introduces a solitary Wally West mastering speed powers without Speed Force or Flash Family support.

6. Absolute Martian Manhunter #1

The most radical reinvention: FBI agent John Jones slowly transforms amid an extraterrestrial conspiracy beyond human comprehension.

7. Absolute Green Lantern #1

Al Ewing unites four Lanterns (Jordan, Stewart, Gardner, Mullein) when a crashed alien ringship disrupts a small town.

Upcoming Collected Editions

Currently announced trade paperbacks (2025 releases):

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

While currently focused on core titles, expect potential crossovers or new Absolute interpretations as this universe expands beyond 2025.