For quite some time, DC Comics has been playing second fiddle in comic book sales, but this all shifted dramatically in 2024. DC introduced the Absolute Universe, a collection of books set on a new Earth born from Darkseid’s creation as depicted in DC All-In #1. At first glance, this concept seemed reminiscent of Marvel’s new Ultimate Universe comics, causing some skepticism about the Absolute Universe’s success. However, older fans couldn’t help but draw parallels to DC’s previous attempt with their All-Star line, which aimed to mimic Marvel’s Ultimate Universe. Yet, when Absolute Batman, Absolute Superman, and Absolute Wonder Woman were released, they not only sold exceptionally well but also delivered high-quality content that took everyone by surprise. The Absolute line became a massive success and diverted all attention away from Marvel. In fact, the excitement surrounding DC’s Absolute line was so intense that it attracted readers to DC as a whole, marking the first time in years that DC posed a genuine challenge to Marvel in the comic book industry.
Initially, iconic titles like “Absolute Batman,” “Absolute Superman,” and “Absolute Wonder Woman” were joined by additional volumes – “Absolute Martian Manhunter,” “Absolute Flash,” and “Absolute Green Lantern.” This expansion has only enhanced the quality of the Absolute series. Known for publishing some of the finest comics currently available, every fan and critic seems to have their unique favorite among these six exceptional books: “Absolute Batman,” “Absolute Superman,” “Absolute Wonder Woman,” “Absolute Martian Manhunter,” “Absolute Flash,” and “Absolute Green Lantern.” Here, I will present my own ranking of these remarkable volumes, offering reasons as to why certain ones stand out above the rest.
6) Absolute Green Lantern
In simpler terms, “Absolute Green Lantern,” penned by Al Ewing and illustrated by Jahnoy Lindsay, can be described as an unusual slice of a fantastic pizza series. Although being called the “worst” Absolute book, it offers a unique blend of Green Lantern lore with cosmic horror elements. The story revolves around characters Jo Mullein and Hal Jordan, with cameos from legendary Green Lanterns like John Stewart and Guy Gardner. Interestingly, Jordan is portrayed as the Black Hand, while Mullein takes on the role of Green Lantern.
The narrative jumps between current events and past occurrences, such as Abin Sur’s arrival on Earth. Sur appears as a seemingly indifferent alien being, wreaking havoc on anyone trying to approach him and encasing Evergreen town in an impenetrable shield. At only four issues into its release, “Absolute Green Lantern” is still finding its footing, making the time jumps somewhat confusing at times. However, it’s far from a bad comic – just one that doesn’t yet reveal all its mysteries.
If you’re looking for a traditional Green Lantern tale, this isn’t it. Instead, Ewing and Lindsay are crafting an intriguing slow-burn storyline that transports readers to uncharted territories. I find the book’s development captivating, but it hasn’t fully reached its potential yet.
5) Absolute Flash
Absolute Flash” by Jeff Lemire, featuring Nick Robles as the regular artist and A.L. Kaplan, shares similarities with “Absolute Green Lantern“, in that both are still developing their narrative. However, I find the construction of “Absolute Flash” to be more engaging thus far. The story primarily focuses on the young character Wally West, who resides on a military base with his father, working alongside Eleanor Thawne and Barry Allen in the creation of super-soldiers. Despite Allen being more of a friend than a father figure to Wally, they share a bond that is deeper than typical family ties. During one of Allen’s crucial experiments, he appears to perish, leaving Wally with powers far exceeding his expectations. The military then dispatches Captain Cold, Trickster, and Captain Boomerang after Wally, along with the genetically modified monkey, Grodd. With Grodd as an ally, Wally manages to elude capture due to his newfound abilities and finds himself in Central City’s Iron Heights neighborhood, where he encounters Ralph Dibney and Linda Park. As opposed to “Absolute Green Lantern“, “Absolute Flash” has been more effective in establishing its backstory at a faster pace. It has introduced multiple Flash characters and left the mystery of Wally’s powers unresolved, creating an intriguing enigma at its core. Lemire delivers his signature blend of family drama and character-driven storytelling with this book, and the artwork by Robles and Kaplan is visually stunning, dynamic, and meticulously detailed. “Absolute Flash” offers a thrilling comic experience and seems to be evolving into a superior comic book than initially anticipated.
4) Absolute Superman
The comic book series “Absolute Superman,” written by Jason Aaron and illustrated by Rafa Sandoval, features additional interpretations of the classic Superman character. Artists Carmine Di Giandomenico and Fico Ossio join in to help create an exceptional take on the hero. This iteration of Superman is reminiscent of his Golden Age persona, also hinted in Grant Morrison’s “Action Comics” during the New 52 era. In this storyline, he confronts the schemes of the Lazarus Corporation and stands up for the underprivileged against the wealthy. Unlike traditional Superman tales, this version grew up on Krypton with his parents who were rebels fighting against the Science Council to save their planet.
The comic leaves much about Superman’s Earth life unanswered, which serves as both a strength and weakness of the book. This version presents a more somber, introspective Superman that fits well within this narrative. If you’re a fan of Zack Snyder’s portrayal of Superman, then this comic series would be an ideal choice for you. It introduces a ruthless Brainiac and is developing the relationships between Superman, Lois Lane, and Jimmy Olsen. Additionally, I find that it sports the most stylish updated costume among all the Absolute characters, with the cape made of Krypton’s ashes adding a unique touch.
While “Absolute Superman” offers an enjoyable reading experience, it doesn’t quite measure up to the top three comics on this list. Despite that, it certainly isn’t a bad book; it simply lacks some of the extraordinary qualities found in those other stories.
3) Absolute Batman
The current title Absolute Batman, penned by the iconic Batman author Scott Snyder, is universally acclaimed as exceptional. This comes as no surprise given its stellar cast of artists including Nick Dragotta, Gabriel Hernandez Walta, and Marcos Martin. Absolute Batman offers a unique take on Batman, stripping away his wealth and presenting a drastically different Bruce Wayne. In this narrative, Martha Wayne is still alive and working alongside Jim Gordon in a political campaign. Alfred is no longer a butler but an intelligence officer. Bruce grew up with familiar faces like Selina Kyle, Eddie Nygma, Waylon Jennings, Harvey Dent, and Ozzie Cobblepot. The villains have also undergone transformations, with Mister Freeze becoming a terrifying specter, Bane embodying a more monstrous form than ever before, and the Joker taking on his most grotesque manifestation yet.
The storyline commenced with “The Zoo”, where Batman clashed with Black Mask and the Party Animals, offering readers a glimpse into the gritty new Gotham City landscape. This Batman is characterized by extreme violence and less tactical prowess, but his ferocity more than compensates. Absolute Batman skillfully reimagines the Batman mythos within the framework of the Absolute Universe, a world steeped in despair. The series is a flawless interpretation of Batman, with each issue showcasing stunning, jaw-dropping action sequences. Recent installments have hinted at a superpowered Batman, adding to the excitement among fans eagerly anticipating this fresh take on the Caped Crusader.
2) Absolute Wonder Woman
From the get-go, a majority of fans and reviewers concurred that “Absolute Wonder Woman” stood out as the top pick among the initial three Absolute series. With Kelly Thompson’s proven talent from her work on Captain Marvel, it was thrilling to see her tackle the iconic female superhero – yes, you can feel it deep down, she truly is the best! In this daring reinterpretation of Diana, Thompson skillfully updates the classic character. The art, a collaboration between regular artist Hayden Sherman and fill-in artist Mattia De Iullis, is nothing short of exceptional, vividly bringing Thompson’s words to life in a breathtaking manner.
Thompson takes the core elements of Wonder Woman and gives them a fresh twist; rather than being nurtured by the Amazons and her mother Hippolyta, she was brought up by Circe in the underworld. This new origin story sees Wonder Woman battling to safeguard our world from the deities and monsters that Circe instilled within her contempt for. Readers are treated to exhilarating action sequences as she uncovers the truth about the world.
While “Absolute Wonder Woman” significantly alters the fundamental aspects of the character, it still embodies the invincible warrior spirit that has been synonymous with Wonder Woman throughout her long history. This series would have undeniably topped our list, as it is unquestionably one of the finest comics currently being produced. Each new issue remains an exhilarating read.
1) Absolute Martian Manhunter
The exceptional masterpiece known as Martian Manhunter: Absolute Edition, penned by Deniz Camp and illustrated by Javier Rodriguez, stands out as a unique piece of high art. Surpassing even the esteemed Absolute Wonder Woman, this book has left readers in awe since its first issue. The seamless blend of storytelling and visual artistry is breathtaking, providing a captivating account of John Jones, a special agent who forms an unbreakable bond with the Martian after being wounded by a villain known as the Human Flame.
When the White Martian launches an attack on Earth, our heroes step up to protect Middleton’s citizens. Martian Manhunter: Absolute Edition is a must-read, showcasing Rodriguez’s incredible artistic skills as he employs pencils and color to craft innovative methods of storytelling. Camp’s writing is deeply emotional, humanizing the narrative through the strained relationship between John and his wife Bridget, who are both affected by the demands of Jones’ work with the Martian.
This comic book offers an unparalleled experience that will leave you in awe on every page, with fresh discoveries waiting to be found upon each re-read. Martian Manhunter: Absolute Edition embodies everything great about comics and sets the bar high for the genre as a whole.
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2025-08-03 18:11