Superman #31 Is a Near-Perfect Supplement to DC’s Brutal New Crossover (Review)

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Since its relaunch in 2023 by writer Joshua Williamson, Superman has consistently been a standout title for DC Comics. The series delivers the large-scale superhero action fans expect, while also focusing on strong character development for Superman and the people around him. With the character’s rising popularity thanks to James Gunn’s DC reboot, Superman has become a key book for DC. Issue #31 especially shines, bringing a long-awaited return that rewards dedicated readers and connects to the wider story begun in DC All-In #1 and continued in DC K.O.

In Superman #31, the story unfolds during the same week the heroes are leaving Earth in DC K.O. #1. This issue focuses on Superman grappling with the heroes’ choice to evacuate, while Lois Lane begins to suspect something big is happening. Writer Jeremy Williamson laid groundwork for DC K.O. in previous Superman issues, and this issue brings those connections to the forefront. It also continues a storyline from the Justice League: Dark Tomorrow special, which showed that the Kryptonians were aware of Darkseid and his title, “King Omega.” This issue is packed with plot developments, but Williamson handles the pacing skillfully, culminating in a strong return for Lois Lane as an investigative reporter.

Tie-in comics can often be tricky, but this issue of Superman avoids those pitfalls. It works equally well for longtime readers who are invested in the ongoing storylines, and for new readers just joining in for the DC K.O. event. Writer Joshua Williamson skillfully explains existing plot threads without boring those already familiar with them. The issue builds tension perfectly, with each event escalating towards a satisfying conclusion that any Superman fan would enjoy. And as a fan of Superboy-Prime, I’m thrilled with how Williamson is portraying the character and hope to see him appear in the upcoming Legion of Superheroes series.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Pros Cons
Compelling storytelling that enhances the DC K.O. narrative Eddy Barrow’s faces aren’t always perfect
The story is mostly Lois Lane based, and Williamson is an excellent Lois writer
The issue brings up some cool ideas that will give readers a new view of some Superman ideas

Superman #31 Looks Fantastic

Since its beginning, Superman has consistently been visually stunning, and issue #31 continues that tradition. While regular artist Dan Mora isn’t on this issue, Eddy Barrows steps in and delivers fantastic artwork. Barrows previously impressed readers with his work on Action Comics last year, and he’s been consistently excellent filling in on Superman. In this issue, he truly showcases his talent, creating dynamic images and effectively conveying the emotional depth of the story and the connections between the characters.

The only slight weakness in Barrows’s artwork is Superman’s facial expressions. Otherwise, it’s nearly perfect. He excels at depicting the Fortress of Solitude, making it feel both sterile and visually appealing, and his holograms of Jor-El and Lara are particularly well done. While this issue isn’t full of action (hopefully there will be more of that later), Barrows’s art more than carries it.

Tie-in comic books can often be frustrating, interrupting a main storyline with stories that don’t quite fit. However, Superman #31 avoids this pitfall. The comic benefits from elements already used in the DC K.O. series, and writer Jeremy Williamson clearly understands these characters, making the issue genuinely enjoyable. It’s a nearly flawless tie-in, and a testament to the quality DC has consistently delivered in 2025.

Superman #31 is on sale now.

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2025-10-22 14:41