#dcnextlevel

DC recently announced that new comic book series Zatanna by Jamal Campbell and The Fury of Firestorm by Jeff Lemire and Rafael De Latorre will expand DC's Next Level initiative in April, spotlighting bold, creator-forward comics that put fan-favorite characters into the hands of some of the industry's most exciting talent. For all the details, check out the official press release below!  

DC ALL IN ACT II INCLUDES NEW SERIES FOR FIRESTORM AND ZATANNA

DC: Next Level Continues Its 2026 Expansion With Zatanna by Jamal Campbell and The Fury of Firestorm by Jeff Lemire and Rafael De Latorre

Hot on the heels of March's breakout DC: Next Level launches, including Batwoman by Greg Rucka and DaNi, Deathstroke: The Terminator by Tony Fleecs and Carmine di Giandomenico, and Lobo by Skottie Young and Jorge Corona, DC is turning up the heat this April with two bold new comic book series that push magic, mystery, and raw power into uncharted territory. DC today announced that Zatanna by Jamal Campbell and The Fury of Firestorm by Jeff Lemire and Rafael De Latorre will expand DC's Next Level initiative in April, spotlighting bold, creator-forward comics that put fan-favorite characters into the hands of some of the industry's most exciting talent. As DC: All In enters its second act, these Next Level launches stand alongside major new storylines across DC's ongoing and limited series within its main universe and Absolute universe, expanding the scope and the future of DC's storytelling. THE FURY OF FIRESTORM

First Issue Arrives April 1, 2026

The Nuclear Man goes Next Level with Jeff Lemire and Rafael De Latorre!

The community of Bedford, Colorado, is a sleepy small town. The people say hello to their neighbors, attend town hall meetings, and root for the local high school football team on Friday nights. But this idyllic small town is thrown upside down when the Nuclear Man arrives and starts...experimenting. Firestorm has turned buildings to sand and people to glass with no remorse and no warning. But what exactly provoked Ronnie Raymond to commit this heinous act, and can anyone contain the fury that is Firestorm? Brought to you by the acclaimed team of Jeff Lemire (Absolute Flash, JSA) and Rafael De Latorre (The Penguin), this explosive new series ignites the next major chapter of DC's Next Level line. The Fury of Firestorm #1 includes open-to-order card stock variants by Chris Burnham and Riley Rossmo, priced at $4.99 US ($3.99 US main; $6.99 US foil). Lemire provides a 1:25 incentive variant, while Burnham's cover will also be available as an open-to-order foil edition. A DC: Next Level variant by Jorge Corona and a blank sketch cover round out the assortment.   ON WITH THE SHOW... ZATANNA

First Issue Arrives April 29, 2026

ratsrepuS lamaJ llebmaC sekaT s'annataZ cigaM ot eht txeN leveL!

DC Comics is preparing to launch a bold new publishing initiative in 2026, and writer Scott Snyder has shed light on what fans can expect from DC Next Level — a curated line of in-continuity titles designed to elevate characters who have lived for too long in the shadows of DC’s biggest icons. Rather than rebooting continuity or dismantling what’s already working, DC Next Level aims to create a new creative lane: one that honors the past, invites new readers in, and empowers creators to build fresh, modern takes on classic heroes and antiheroes.

Unlike prior initiatives built around timeline resets or universe-wide restructuring, DC Next Level is uniquely positioned as a middle path. The titles are fully part of the existing DC Universe, but they’re constructed so that readers can jump in cold, even if they’ve never read a comic starring these characters before. It’s a blend of accessibility and continuity—something fans have been asking for but rarely receive in a sustained, line-wide effort.

The 2026 Lineup: A Mix of Fan Favorites and Underserved Icons

The first wave of DC Next Level books is set to begin rolling out in March 2026, and the lineup already reflects a thoughtful strategy. Instead of relying on the usual publishing anchors like Batman or Superman, the focus shifts to characters who have passionate fanbases but inconsistent publishing support.

Among the headliners is a new Batwoman series, written by Greg Rucka with art by Dani. Rucka’s return to the character he helped redefine promises a grounded, emotionally resonant take — a reinvigoration of one of DC’s most compelling modern heroes.

Also on the slate is a fresh Legion of Super-Heroes relaunch, spearheaded by Joshua Williamson. With the Legion’s vast mythology and huge cast, the challenge lies in making the 31st century accessible without diluting its grandeur. Williamson’s track record suggests a balance of big-picture storytelling and streamlined character focus.

A new Lobo series from the team of Skottie Young and Jorge Corona has also been announced, and early descriptions suggest a version of the character that feels both classic and unfiltered — exactly the kind of stylized, high-energy chaos that suits Lobo’s brand.

Other announced titles include:

Deathstroke: The Terminator

Firestorm: The Nuclear Man

Batman: Shadow of the Bat

Zatanna

The Demon

Barbara Gordon: Breakout

A robust mix of creators is attached as well, including Mariko Tamaki, Deniz Camp, James Harren, Jeff Lemire, Tony Fleecs, and Jamal Campbell. It’s a blend of veteran visionaries and emerging voices — a key piece of the initiative’s identity.

A Creator-First Philosophy at the Core

One of the most exciting aspects of DC Next Level is what Snyder describes as its creator-forward approach. Instead of assigning characters based on publishing needs, DC invited writers and artists to choose the characters they’re most passionate about. This approach not only increases enthusiasm but strengthens the storytelling from the ground up.

The mandate isn’t to reinvent the characters beyond recognition, but to give creators space to present fresh, approachable stories that don’t require years of backstory familiarity. That accessibility is a cornerstone of the entire line. A reader picking up Zatanna or The Demon for the first time should feel immediately at home — immersed, not overwhelmed.

The early pitches, according to Snyder, have ranged from horror-infused supernatural reinventions to gritty, urban thrillers to wild, cosmic sci-fi. That tonal diversity is intentional. DC Next Level doesn't want to be a single brand of storytelling — it wants to be a platform for variety within the larger DC Universe.

This strategy also speaks to a growing trend in comics: trusting creators to follow their instincts rather than box them into synergy-driven directives. When creators love the characters they’re writing, that passion inevitably bleeds onto the page.

What DC Next Level Means for the Future of the DC Universe

With DC Next Level arriving in the wake of multiple major events, it serves as something of a recalibration. Instead of another line-wide upheaval, Next Level is a broadening of the universe — an attempt to fill in the corners with new stories that matter but don’t require readers to track every continuity detail.

For long-time fans, the fact that the books remain firmly in continuity is a reassurance. None of these stories replace or overwrite what’s come before. They simply expand it.

For new readers or those returning after time away, these titles may become ideal entry points—books that feel modern, standalone, and character-focused while still contributing to the greater DC tapestry.

The hope is that by presenting a line anchored by a diversity of tones, genres, and characters, DC can appeal to audiences who don’t always see themselves reflected in the mainstream superhero lineup.

Looking Ahead: What We Still Don’t Know

While many details have been revealed, some questions remain:

What is the release cadence for the full 2026 slate?

How interconnected will these books be — lightly tied to continuity or heavily cross-referential?

Will Next Level expand further in 2027 if the initiative succeeds?

How will fans respond to a line that pushes non-flagship characters to the forefront?

Regardless of what comes next, DC Next Level marks a notable shift in DC’s publishing philosophy. It’s not a reboot, not an event, and not a temporary imprint. It’s a commitment to creative freedom, accessibility, and deeper exploration of the DC Universe, driven by creators’ personal connection to the characters they choose to write.

For readers, it’s an invitation — a chance to step into new stories that feel alive, energized, and unconstrained by decades of narrative weight. If the line delivers on its promises, 2026 could mark the beginning of a new era for DC Comics, one where every corner of the universe gets its chance to shine.

Stay tuned to DC Comics News for more updates as they arrive.

DC Comics is preparing to shift gears in a major way this spring, as DC ALL IN officially enters its second act with the launch of DC: NEXT LEVEL in March 2026. Following the conclusion of the bruising DC K.O. event on March 4, the new initiative represents a strategic escalation for DC’s main publishing line—one that emphasizes bold creative voices, fan-favorite characters, and accessible jumping-on points without abandoning continuity. Architects of the ALL IN initiative, Scott Snyder and Joshua Williamson, are once again steering the direction. Since debuting with the DC ALL IN SPECIAL and the unveiling of the Absolute Universe, the line has focused on reinvigorating DC’s publishing slate with ambition and creative risk. NEXT LEVEL, according to both creators, is designed to build directly on that momentum. Snyder describes NEXT LEVEL as the natural evolution of what ALL IN has been setting up since day one. From Absolute’s alternate takes to the high-octane chaos of DC K.O., the goal has been to generate enthusiasm not just among readers, but also retailers, while giving creators room to take meaningful swings. Williamson echoes that sentiment, positioning NEXT LEVEL as a way to “super-charge” DC’s core continuity in much the same way Absolute energized the line with unexpected new series. At its core, DC: NEXT LEVEL is a slate of creator-forward #1s—new series starring established characters, each reimagined through a distinct genre lens. These books are fully in continuity, yet designed as largely standalone reads, allowing new readers to jump in while longtime fans enjoy fresh perspectives on familiar icons. March 2026 launches with three flagship titles that exemplify the initiative’s range: Lobo, Batwoman, and Deathstroke: The Terminator. Leading the charge on March 4 is Lobo #1, written by Skottie Young with art by Jorge Corona. Young and Corona, known for blending emotional storytelling with striking visuals, turn their attention to DC’s most infamous Czarnian. This series promises unapologetic excess—cosmic violence, dark humor, and continuity-savvy chaos—as Lobo barrels across the universe on a guitar-powered motorcycle, leaving bodies and broken contracts in his wake. Positioned as a guts-soaked bridge between DC K.O. and the far edges of the DC cosmos, Lobo leans fully into the character’s anarchic appeal while still grounding him within DC’s broader mythos.

Lobo character designs by Corona A week later, on March 11, Batwoman #1 marks a significant homecoming. Greg Rucka, the Eisner-winning writer who helped define Kate Kane in her modern incarnation, returns to the character alongside visionary artist DaNi. This new series reframes Batwoman through a deeply personal and mythic lens, centered on Kate’s lifelong entanglement with a prophecy and a religion devoted to the apocalypse. Rucka’s approach emphasizes identity, faith, and defiance—asking how a soldier and hero fights the devil when the devil is very real. With DaNi’s bold, expressive artwork, Batwoman aims to redefine Kate Kane’s mission for a new generation while honoring the character’s legacy.

Batwoman character work by DaNi Rounding out the month on March 18 is Deathstroke: The Terminator #1, from writer Tony Fleecs and artist Carmine Di Giandomenico. This series leans hard into brutal action and psychological intensity. Slade Wilson, the world’s deadliest assassin, finds himself targeted by an enemy determined to dismantle his life piece by piece. As the pressure mounts, Deathstroke evolves into his most lethal form yet—a remorseless terminator driven by revenge. Fleecs’ twisted narrative instincts combined with Di Giandomenico’s kinetic art promise a blood-soaked reinvention that still stays true to Slade’s core.

DC Comics pulled back the curtain on its publishing roadmap for the remainder of 2026 during its annual ComicsPro presentation in Glendale, California, offering retailers a sweeping preview of what’s ahead for the publisher. From new additions to the rapidly expanding Absolute Universe to the next phase of the DC Next Level initiative and a major Gotham-centric event, the presentation made clear that DC is planning an ambitious year across multiple imprints.

Vertigo’s Return Continues to Build Momentum

DC began its announcements at ComicsPro by spotlighting the continued rollout of the revived Vertigo imprint, which returned in 2026 with a focus on bold creator-driven storytelling. The line launched with titles including Bleeding Hearts, End of Life, The Nice House by the Sea, and The Peril of the Brutal Dark, signaling a return to the mature, genre-defying style that made Vertigo a defining imprint in comics history.

The next wave of Vertigo titles is already on the horizon. This summer will see the debut of 100 Bullets: The US of ANGER and Fanatic, both expanding the line’s range of dark, thought-provoking storytelling. In the fall, Vertigo will introduce Necretaceous and Black Tower: The Raven Conspiracy, while winter will round out the imprint’s first full year with The Crying Doll and A Walking Shadow.

The growing slate underscores DC’s commitment to restoring Vertigo as a home for experimental narratives and acclaimed creative voices.

The Absolute Universe Adds Green Arrow and Catwoman

One of DC’s most successful recent initiatives, the Absolute Universe, is expanding with two high-profile new series.

Absolute Green Arrow, written by Pornsak Pichetshote with art by Rafael Albuquerque, launches May 20th. The series promises a bold reinterpretation of Oliver Queen, re-imagining the iconic archer in the continuity-free storytelling style that defines the Absolute line.

That will be followed by Absolute Catwoman, debuting June 10th from Che Grayson, Scott Snyder, and artist Bengal. Like the other Absolute titles, the series will present a fresh, standalone take on Selina Kyle, free from the constraints of decades of continuity.

During ComicsPro 2026, DC also teased the first Absolute Universe event miniseries, scheduled to arrive in the fourth quarter of 2026. While details remain under wraps, the announcement signals that the imprint is growing large enough to support its own interconnected crossover stories.

DC Next Level Expands with Teen Titans and More

DC also highlighted the continued rollout of its DC Next Level initiative, which aims to refresh the publisher’s core lineup with accessible jumping-on points for new readers.

Several series are already scheduled to launch in the coming months, including Lobo #1, Batwoman #1, and Deathstroke: The Terminator #1 on March 18. These will be followed by The Fury of Firestorm #1 on April 8 and Zatanna #1 on April 29.

The initiative will continue to grow through the summer. Barbara Gordon: Breakout, written by Mariko Tamaki with art by Amancay Nahuelpan, arrives in May, while The Deadman by W. Maxwell Prince and Martín Morazzo launches in June.

At ComicsPro, retailers were also given an early look at additional Next Level titles currently in development, including Legion of Super-Heroes, Doom Patrol, Jonah Hex, The Demon, and Batman: Shadow of the Bat, with creative teams and release dates to be revealed later.

Among the biggest announcements was a brand-new Teen Titans series from writer Kyle Higgins and artist Daniele Di Nicuolo, the creative duo behind Power Rangers: Shattered Grid. The story centers on Red Hood as he investigates a mysterious network of missing powered teenagers, eventually joining forces with a new generation of tech-savvy young heroes to uncover a conspiracy dividing their world.

Teen Titans character designs by Daniele Di Nicuolo

Gotham Event “BAD SEEDS” Set for Q3 2026

DC concluded its presentation with a preview of “BAD SEEDS,” a major Gotham City event scheduled for the third quarter of 2026.

"BAD SEEDS" promo by Giuseppe Camuncoli, Cliff Rathburn, and Tomeu Morey

In the storyline, Gotham City police commissioner Vandal Savage declares open war on the Bat-Family, unleashing a heavily militarized private police force throughout the city. At the same time, Gotham’s mayor, Pamela Isley, finds herself abandoned by both political allies and mystical forces, pushing her toward a desperate last move.

The crisis unfolds over a single, harrowing night as Gotham teeters on the brink of ecological catastrophe. Savage’s assault drives the city’s heroes into hiding while Isley’s final gambit threatens to transform Gotham into a primal jungle dominated by hostile plant life.

DC has promised more details about the crossover in the coming months.

Celebrating a Landmark Batman Anniversary

Before wrapping up ComicsPro 2026, DC reminded retailers that 2026 marks the 40th anniversary of Batman: The Dark Knight Returns by Frank Miller, Klaus Janson, and Lynn Varley. The publisher plans a year-long celebration of the landmark series with special releases, collectibles, and publishing initiatives honoring one of the most influential comics ever produced.

Taken together, the announcements at ComicsPro paint a picture of a publisher doubling down on both innovation and legacy. With Vertigo’s resurgence, the continued expansion of the Absolute Universe, and new initiatives like DC Next Level, DC appears poised for one of its most expansive publishing years in recent memory.