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DC has announced today it plans to release DC All In Special #1, a 64-page single issue “mega event” presented as “a startling, symmetrical flipbook”–no, sadly, not one of these–that just means it’ll have a different cover on both the front and back. But beyond the swanky cover, the new special will set the stage for a new slice of the DC multiverse, and offer a refresh of DC’s core ongoing titles along the way.
Promising “bold new directions for DC’s mainstay Super Heroes,” the issue will serve as the spearhead for “a line-wide initiative combining an exciting, reimagined universe of DC’s Super Heroes” with “an ongoing line of core titles. Written by Scott Snyder and Joshua Williamson with art by Daniel Sampere, the story is said to concern “a vastly different version” of Darkseid returning to Earth, prompting the heroes of the DC Universe to come together and face him down. As the press release states, “when the first blows land, the shock waves will ripple across DC’s core series, shaking the nature of their realities to their very foundation!”
Yes, Darkseid’s volley will somehow create a new offshoot of the DC Multiverse, the “Absolute Universe,” focusing on a reality where DC’s heroes have “fewer advantages while facing greater opposition than ever before,” as they struggle to bring hope to the masses in a reality wracked with despair. What does that mean, exactly? The launch of three brand-new titles based around the classic trinity: in which Batman no longer has money, Wonder Woman is not a product of her Paradise Island upbringing, and Superman is seemingly completely homeless. Yikes!
© Daniel Sampere/DC Comics This new Absolute Universe trilogy will kick off with the release of Absolute Batman #1 this October 9, featuring art by Nick Dragotta and again written by Scott Snyder. In this new iteration, “fans will be introduced to a version of the Dark Knight that doesn’t have the money, mansion, or butler of his core-line counterpart. Readers will quickly find out what makes this the ‘Absolute’ version of Batman.” October 23 will then see the release of Absolute Wonder Woman #1, written by Kelly Thompson with art Hayden Sherman. As the press release states, “For Diana, there is no island paradise, no sisterhood to shape her, nor a mission of peace—so what is the purpose of an Amazon warrior in this new universe?”
Most intriguingly, November 6 will then see the release of Absolute Superman #1, written by Jason Aaron with art by Rafa Sandoval. The book is said to introduce a version of the character with “no family, no Fortress of Solitude, and no home. Will he still stand for truth, justice, and a better tomorrow in this new universe?”
As DC’s statement concludes, “this daring new publishing direction is also an exciting opportunity for readers to discover and rediscover their love for DC’s Super Heroes with exciting stories across the line.” That said, are you excited for these Hubert Selby, Jr.-inspired takes on your favorite heroes? Let us know what you think when DC Special All-In #1 recaches stores October 2.
Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.
