DC Announces Major Overhaul for The Flash in the Absolute Universe, Marking a Long-Awaited Reboot for the Speedster

DC Announces Major Overhaul for The Flash in the Absolute Universe, Marking a Long-Awaited Reboot for the Speedster

DC Comics is on the brink of redefining the Flash with their upcoming release, Absolute Flash, which promises a much-needed reboot for the iconic superhero. In the tradition of the Absolute line—known for its innovative reinterpretations of DC’s most revered characters, including Batman, Wonder Woman, and Superman—this new title is anticipated to introduce a fresh and thrilling perspective on the Scarlet Speedster.

In a recently released video on DC’s YouTube channel, Scott Snyder, writer for Absolute Batman, shared insights regarding how the Absolute Flash diverges from the established Earth-0 version. He emphasized the series’ commitment to reshaping the Flash’s origins and powers:

Every Flash run is built upon a legacy. Jeff [Lemire] came in pitching [the idea] that there’s no Flash before Wally, there’s no Jay Garrick, there’s no Barry. [Absolute Flash] is what happens if the Flash started now, and what would the Speedforce be if it began or was discovered in this moment. How do we begin it in a way that doesn’t have this shadow over it?

Snyder elaborated further on the fresh take regarding the series’ villains:

So every character – Grodd and all of these characters – feel like they are born in this moment, so there’s no long history. It’s all about that start… and it feels like it’s so connected and inviting and fun. It’s a great, fun book and Nick Robles’ art is awesome. And a very young Wally is so stylish; he looks awesome! And the rogues look fantastic.

For additional details about the other titles in the Absolute series, fans can refer to the video linked here:

DC’s Thriving Absolute Line: A Breakdown

Absolute Flash: A Radical Reimagination

Absolute Flash Cover Variant
Preview of Young Flash Talking with His Father
Redesigned Rogues in Absolute Flash
Wally West in Absolute Flash
Another Variant Cover of Absolute Flash

DC’s Absolute line has achieved remarkable success, with Absolute Batman #1 becoming the top-selling comic issue of 2024. The premise is refreshing: it strips beloved characters of their customary advantages. In Absolute Batman, for instance, the Dark Knight does not have access to his vast fortune, forcing him to rely on his skills alone. Similarly, Absolute Wonder Woman is shaped by a drastically different upbringing, having been raised in Hell by Circe rather than on Themyscira by Hippolyta. The absence of wealth and familial influences leads to diverse paths for these heroes.

With Absolute Flash, the narrative explores a world devoid of a storied legacy.

In this reimagining, Lemire and Robles have stripped away a crucial facet of the character: the sense of legacy. Snyder points out that previous iterations of the Flash—such as Jay, Barry, and Wally—each contribute to a legacy that spans from the Golden Age of comics to the present. This legacy typically provides significant advantages; seasoned speedsters often mentor the younger ones. The absence of such mentorship profoundly influences Wally’s development as a hero in Absolute Flash.

The Speed Force and the infamous Rogues gallery are also central to this series, albeit with novel interpretations. Snyder highlighted how the Absolute Universe represents a newly discovered Speed Force, a vital and mysterious elemental force within the DC realm. The Flash’s Rogues gallery, regarded as one of the finest in comic history, will also undergo exciting transformations in this new narrative.

A Bold New Direction with Absolute Flash

Unique Interpretations of Wally West and Rogues for Enthusiasts

Absolute Flash preview page showing Wally West

This exciting evolution paves the way for Absolute Flash to be the boldest iteration of the character in years. Many elements fans consider foundational to Flash’s identity—such as his celebrated legacy—have been notably reworked. While relinquishing the legacy may seem like an affront to long-standing fans, the resounding success of DC’s other Absolute titles attests to the potential of this approach. Despite its changes, the Flash continues to evolve, and Absolute Flash signifies one of the most significant revitalizations of the character in many years. This new take will undoubtedly challenge and engage fans alike.

For more information, visit: DC Comics

Mark your calendars: Absolute Flash #1 is set to release on March 19, 2024, from DC Comics!

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