DC Introduces New Fastest Man While Overlooked Hero Takes The Flash’s Powers

WARNING! Spoilers for Justice League: The Atom Project #2

The Flash, traditionally recognized as the swiftest character in the DC Universe, faces a dramatic shift as Captain Atom emerges as a formidable contender for the title of the Fastest Man Alive. This unexpected twist not only challenges Barry Allen’s legacy but also leaves fans questioning whether this change is here to stay, paving the way for Captain Atom to assume a central role in the realm of speedsters.

Within the pages of Justice League: The Atom Project #2, crafted by the talented team of Ryan Parrott, John Ridley, Mike Perkins, Adriano Lucas, and Wes Abbott, Ray Palmer and Ryan Choi investigate Captain Atom’s enhanced velocity after he narrowly evades capture. Their investigation leads them to the puzzle of Speed Force residues found in the environment, indicating a significant alteration in power dynamics.

Captain Atom appears to have tapped into the Flash’s signature power source, signifying a potential usurpation of Barry Allen’s speed. This unforeseen power shift raises critical questions about the future of both characters in the ongoing narrative of the DC Universe.

Captain Atom May Have Just Stolen The Flash’s Super-Speed

The Flash Lost His Speed Force Connection, While Captain Atom Just Unlocked His Own

Captain Atom’s newly acquired speed is just one aspect of his emerging array of powers. As detailed in Justice League: The Atom Project #1, Nathaniel Adam finds himself transformed during a sequence of experiments aimed at reclaiming the lost powers of Justice League members. However, upon choosing a rogue path to avoid reverting to his quantum form, he inadvertently manifests extraordinary abilities, including speed that rivals that of the Flash.Currently, Barry Allen is disconnected from the Speed Force, and it seems Captain Atom has effectively inherited his once unparalleled swiftness.

The severance of the Flash’s Speed Force connection aligns with Captain Atom’s newfound capabilities. In Absolute Power #4, Barry Allen explicitly expresses his inability to channel his speed, amplifying the urgency of the situation. Unlike other heroes who may have exchanged abilities during recent events, Barry’s total speed loss appears to have paved the way for Captain Atom to forge his own link to the Speed Force—suggesting a potentially unnatural acquisition of powers.

The Flash Finally Has a Chance At Regaining His Super-Speed

With the Atom Project, Barry Allen Can Become The Flash Once More

The Flash running through the Speed Force

With the research and efforts of Ray and Ryan, the Atoms seem to have discovered a potential pathway to restore Barry Allen’s lost powers. Following the events of the Absolute Power saga, Barry had stepped back from his superhero duties, allowing Wally West to step into the role of the Flash. However, the Atoms are developing a strategy that could reclaim the powers that have been swapped between heroes. If they succeed in containing Captain Atom, there’s a solid chance they can return the access to speed back to Barry. Thus, the reign of Captain Atom as the Fastest Man Alive may be temporary, as the Flash could be poised to make a swift comeback.

Justice League: The Atom Project #2 is set to be released on February 5th, 2025, from DC Comics.

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