Your DC KO Reading Order Checklist!

Posted on July 22, 2025 | by Super Robot Lifeform

It may not be THE list everyone is buzzing about right now, but we’re pretty excited about it! This October, hold on to the edge of your beanbag chair as DC’s DC KO crossover event gets underway! As the Heart of Apokolips ravages the Earth, Darkseid says “GET OVER HERE!” to the heroes of the DC Universe when he challenges them to a deadly tournament to decide the fate of the world! Who will live? Who will die? Who will get the streaming rights? Don’t miss a panel with this handy DC KO reading order checklist!

Here’s what we have so far. Check back for updates. Release dates are subject to change.

DC KO READING ORDER

1. JUSTICE LEAGUE UNLIMITED #11

EVE OF DESTRUCTION!

Something strange is happening on Earth…and the Justice League is powerless to stop it! It began with a horrific volcanic eruption in the heart of the villainstronghold nation of Zandia…and quickly spread to Count Vertigo’s neighboring kingdom of Vlatava. The parademons that the JLU faced before are only the tip of the iceberg–the entire planet is now in peril! What signal does this point to in the Quantum Quorum’s tournament? Do not miss this pivotal next chapter in the All In saga!

On sale 9/24/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 9/1/2025.

2. AQUAMAN #11

A KING’S DESCENT INTO MADNESS!

Mera and the mystery of Atlantis unravels, even as Andy moves towards her ultimate goal and Arthur contends with the power of the Blue! But is this power too much for even a KING to contend with? An oceanic onslaught unloads on the king of the seven seas, and the connection between the DARK TIDE and DARKSEID is at last revealed!

On sale 11/12/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 10/20/2025.

3. JUSTICE LEAGUE: THE OMEGA ACT SPECIAL #1 (ONE-SHOT)

IT’S ALL BEEN LEADING TO THIS!

A special oversize prologue to DC’s biggest event of the year. Everything since DC All In Special #1 has been building to this moment! Time Trapper is on the run from Darkseid’s Legion. Racing through time to learn how to stop Darkseid’s conquest, he witnesses how the future is already lost and the only hope of survival lies with the Justice League! The Time Trapper has a plan to save the DCU, but it means making an impossible offer to the League…

On sale 10/1/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 9/8/2025.

4. DC K.O. #1 (OF 4)

DC’S MAJOR 2025 EVENT IS HERE! SCOTT SNYDER AND JAVIER FERNANDEZ WELCOME YOU TO THE SLUGFEST OF THE CENTURY!

The Heart of Apokolips has transformed Earth into a hellscape in preparation for the return of Darkseid! The end of the DC Universe is here! The Justice League’s only chance to defeat Darkseid is to enter a deadly tournament, an epic and over-the-top battle royale that will surprise you! The World’s Greatest Heroes fight to become the champion to enter the ring against Darkseid, but there’s a catch… the closer you get to the Heart of Apokolips, the more it corrupts you, changes you into something dangerous. Which DC character has what it takes to make it to the end? Who is willing to do what it takes to win it all, even if it means taking down their friends and family? You want to get nuts? Let’s get nuts!

On sale 10/8/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 9/15/2025.

5. TITANS #28

THE TITANS RACE TO EVACUATE EARTH!

Spinning out of the world-shaking events of DC K.O.! Before the heart of Apokolips terraforms the planet into a hellscape, the Titans lead the evacuation of the Earth! While the team splits up to save as many people as possible, old friends and new allies join the fray to save humanity from extinction. The next major Titans storyline starts here!

On sale 10/15/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 9/22/2025.

6. SUPERMAN #31

SUPERMAN… MAN OF APOKOLIPS?!

Superman and his allies have been thrown into a dangerous game to capture the Heart of Apokolips at the center of Earth. But what is the Heart of Apokolips? And how are its origins tied to Krypton?! And why doesn’t Darkseid’s Legion want Superman to find out?!

On sale 10/22/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 9/29/2025.

7. THE FLASH #26

WALLY AND IMPULSE RACE THROUGH TIME—WITH MARK WAID AND CHRISTOPHER CANTWELL!

As the chaos around the DC Universe erupts during DC K.O., Impulse has an idea how to fix it: Impulsepoint—a terrible move that could wipe out everything unless the Flash can catch up with him as they race through time!

On sale 10/22/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 9/29/2025.

8. JUSTICE LEAGUE UNLIMITED #12

THE TERRIFIC TEN ARE ON A DO-OR-DIE MISSION!

As the tournament begins and the transformation of Earth GROWS MORE DIRE, a strange signal is detected at the heart of darkness at the core of the planet–a Terrifictech device?! Michael Holt must put together an elite Justice League squad of the most powerful time-displaced heroes from We Are Yesterday to unravel the mystery–and this mission is a oneway ticket. Get ready for a mission to hell and back in this epic tie-in to the DC K.O. event!

On sale 10/22/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 9/29/2025.

9. DC K.O.: KNIGHTFIGHT #1 (OF 4)

SUPERSTARS JOSHUA WILLIAMSON AND DAN MORA TEST BATMAN LIKE NEVER BEFORE!

Experience Batman’s epic journey during the explosive DC K.O. event! The Dark Knight is forced to take a different path in the tournament for the Heart of Apokolips–one that has turned Gotham into a deadly arena where Batman must battle against the Batmen of the future! Who are these Batmen? Stay tuned to find out! Get ready for the greatest fight of Batman’s life in this over-the-top crossover miniseries!

On sale 11/5/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 10/13/2025.

10. TITANS #29

THE TITANS STAND BETWEEN HUMANITY AND APOKOLIPS!

The Towers have lifted, and Earth’s evacuation is complete! As the Titans take to the stars to save humanity from the oncoming apocalypse, trouble can’t help but follow them! Our heroes are scattered across the galaxy–and across dimensions–each discovering that new worlds mean new dangers, something Starfire knows all too well as she ends up cornered by an Apokoliptian blockade!

On sale 11/19/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 10/27/2025.

11. DC K.O. #2 (OF 4)

LET THE GAMES BEGIN!

The tournament is in full swing. Heroes have fallen. Darkseid is near. The 32 champions have been chosen, and now they must compete to earn the Heart of Apokolips. The first challenge? Battling across a deadly arena to acquire new weapons of war. The greatest powers of the DC Universe are up for grabs, and whoever holds them will advance to the next level. Superman has his doubts that the Justice League is doing the right thing, but there are others who have no problem killing to get what they want…

On sale 11/26/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 11/3/2025.

12. SUPERMAN #32

LEX LUTHOR ENTERS THE FRAY!

Lex Luthor is back! But how did he get into the deadly tournament? Can Superman and Lex work together to learn about the Heart of Apokolips and how to stop it? And who protects Metropolis as it transforms into a raging firepit?

On sale 11/26/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 11/3/2025.

13. THE FLASH #27

THE SPEEDSTER CHASE THROUGH TIME CONTINUES!

After Impulse’s shocking decision, the Flash races through the time stream before Impulse’s irrational actions can potentially doom the DC Universe. But someone is just a step behind the speedsters, while the Flash and Impulse run right into a shocking reunion!

On sale 11/26/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 11/3/2025.

14. JUSTICE LEAGUE UNLIMITED #13

THE TERRIFIC TEN ON A DO-OR-DIE MISSION!

The Earth opens up to swallow the JLU! Parademons swarm the Watchtower! The Time Trapper lies near-dead at Metamorpho’s feet? Any one of these things is catastrophic, but all three simultaneously? Can Armageddon be far behind?

On sale 11/26/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 11/3/2025.

15. DC K.O.: KNIGHTFIGHT #2 (OF 4)

BATMAN VS. BATMAN FOR THE SOUL OF GOTHAM CITY!

The stage is set, and Bruce Wayne’s battle through a gauntlet of future Batmen is on! Each former Robin has shaped Gotham City into their own vision of justice, and if Bruce can make his way past Dick Grayson, he’ll face the darkest one yet. Will he survive the most violent aspects of his own legacy? Or will Batman’s greatest failure destroy him and the city he’s sworn to protect? It’s a literal battle for the cowl–and for the fate of the DC Universe–as the all-star creative team of Joshua Williamson and Dan Mora turns up the heat!

On sale 12/3/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 11/10/2025.

16. DC K.O.: SUPERMAN VS. CAPTAIN ATOM #1 (ONE-SHOT)

DC K.O. ALL FIGHT MONTH: ROUND 7 OF 8!

A fight you never expected but are dying to see!

On sale 12/3/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 11/10/2025.

17. AQUAMAN #12

DC K.O. ALL FIGHT MONTH: ROUND 2 OF 8!

Friends become foes in a battle with cataclysmic consequences!

On sale 12/10/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 11/10/2025.

18. DC K.O.: WONDER WOMAN VS. LOBO #1 (ONE-SHOT)

DC K.O. ALL FIGHT MONTH: ROUND 3 OF 8!

Witness the ultimate smackdown as two heavy hitters fight for the crown!

On sale 12/10/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 11/10/2025.

19. TITANS #30

DC K.O. ALL FIGHT MONTH: ROUND 4 OF 8!

Grab yourself a ringside seat and get ready for the latest round of K.O. carnage!

On sale 12/17/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 11/17/2025.

20. DC K.O.: HARLEY QUINN VS. ZATANNA #1 (ONE-SHOT)

DC K.O. ALL FIGHT MONTH: ROUND 5 OF 8!

It’s all-out chaos as Harley Quinn faces off against a surprise opponent!

On sale 12/17/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 11/17/2025.

21. THE FLASH #28

DC K.O. ALL FIGHT MONTH: ROUND 6 OF 8!

It’s the match you never saw coming!

On sale 12/24/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 11/24/2025.

22. SUPERMAN #33

DC K.O. ALL FIGHT MONTH: ROUND 7 OF 8!

A fight you never expected but are dying to see!

On sale 12/24/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 11/24/2025.

23. DC K.O.: RED HOOD VS. THE JOKER #1 (ONE-SHOT)

DC K.O. ALL FIGHT MONTH: ROUND 8 OF 8! FINAL ROUND!

Welcome to the most ruthless fight in all of DC K.O. This one is personal!

On sale 12/24/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 11/24/2025.

24. JUSTICE LEAGUE UNLIMITED #14

THE FALL OF MR. TERRIFIC!

As the time-displaced heroes fight for their lives against the towering might of the demonic neron, Mr. Terrific descends into the cold vacuum of space! But this time it’s by his own design… can Michael Holt team with the rogue agent behind Justice League Red to purge all emotion and coldly calculate the fate of humanity? Grab the tissues, everybody–this issue’s about to break some hearts!

On sale 12/24/2025. Don’t Miss Out Date 11/24/2025.

25. DC K.O.: KNIGHTFIGHT #3 (OF 4)

JASON TODD. TIM DRAKE. DOUBLE TROUBLE FOR BATMAN!

All-star creators Joshua Williamson and Dan Mora deliver the next pulse-pounding chapter of Batman’s journey during DC K.O., giving us the Dark Knight’s greatest challenge yet. Jason Todd is Batman. Tim Drake is Batman. And to complete his mission, Bruce Wayne will have to fight both of them. The former Robins aren’t giving up without a fight, and it will take everything Batman has–and then some–in order to defeat them. Does Batman have what it takes to defeat both of his pupils, or have the students become the masters?

On sale 1/7/2026. Don’t Miss Out Date 12/1/2025.

26. DC K.O. #3

THE ELITE EIGHT REMAIN–AND ALL HELL IS GOING TO BREAK LOOSE! IT’S TAG-TEAM TIME!

As the Omega Tournament reaches its endgame, the final eight combatants are put to the ultimate test–confronted with a decades-long stay in their own personal hell! Emotions run high as heroes falter, villains revel, and the Heart of Apokolips eyes its new King Omega. In the end, only the final four will remain…

On sale 1/14/2026. Don’t Miss Out Date 12/1/2025.

27. AQUAMAN #13

QUEEN MERA RISES!

As Arthur continues to duke it out in the major DC K.O. event, the hidden kingdom of Atlantis at last emerges! But all is not well, and Queen Mera finds herself face-to-face with the deadliest foe to attack their fair kingdom yet! New threats, new drama, a trip to the throne of Kahndaq, and the return of Black Manta!

On sale 1/14/2026. Don’t Miss Out Date 12/1/2025.

28. TITANS #31

THE EARTH: REBORN!

Something has gone wrong in the Omega Tournament, and the planet’s transformation into New Apokolips has accelerated! Darkseid’s forces arrive on Earth to witness his rebirth, so it’s up to Donna Troy and Roy Harper to hold them back! But can they survive against Grail, the daughter of Darkseid?

On sale 1/21/2026. Don’t Miss Out Date 12/15/2025.

29. DC K.O.: GREEN LANTERN—GALACTIC SLAM #1 (ONE-SHOT)

KYLE RAYNER BRINGS THE COSMIC REINFORCEMENTS!

As the K.O. tournament rages on Earth, the cosmos holds its collective breath as the heroes of our planet fight for the survival of the very universe. But the cavalry is on the horizon! Kyle Rayner, in a bid to provide cover for his fellow Green Lanterns, has found himself pummeled across the galaxy and into the ring of… a wrestling federation?! Oh no… oh dear heavens no… is Omega Bam Man about to enter the DC K.O. fray?! Oh mah gawd! An entire cavalcade of brawlers is right behind him! Are there tables? Somebody get the tables!

On sale 1/21/2026. Don’t Miss Out Date 12/15/2025.

30. SUPERMAN #34

ROCK OF APOKOLIPS!

Darkseid’s plan worked! Earth has been transformed into Apokolips. His Dark Legion prepares the Earth for his imminent arrival. If Superman is locked in the tournament, who can stand up and defeat them?

On sale 1/28/2026. Don’t Miss Out Date 1/5/2026.

31. THE FLASH #29

A RACE AGAINST THE DARK LEGION!

The Dark Legion chase the Flash and Impulse to a pivotal moment in Flash history: The moment when Barry Allen was struck by lightning!

On sale 1/28/2026. Don’t Miss Out Date 1/5/2026.

32. JUSTICE LEAGUE UNLIMITED #15

THE FALL OF MR. TERRIFIC!

The plot Neron set in motion is revealed at last—and the consequences will spell the end of heroism on planet Earth! As powered-up villains ravage what’s left of the planet, the Terrific Ten is whittled down to a handful of survivors who can’t possibly withstand the fires of Hell!

On sale 1/28/2026. Don’t Miss Out Date 1/5/2026.

33. DC K.O.: THE KIDS ARE ALL FIGHT #1 (ONE-SHOT)

CAN JON KENT STOP GRANNY GOODNESS?

Jon Kent always wanted to be a Titan when he grew up, but now that he’s working alongside them in the effort to evacuate Earth, he didn’t think he’d be stuck babysitting young sidekicks! When the kids sneak off to enter the fray and stop Granny Goodness, Jon will have to show these young heroes the ropes so they can save the day and prove there’s no age requirement to being a superhero–and you won’t want to miss the SHOCKING finale!

On sale 1/28/2026. Don’t Miss Out Date 1/5/2026.

34. DC K.O.: BOSS BATTLE #1 (ONE-SHOT)

TO SAVE OUR WORLD, THEY MUST BATTLE THE CHAMPIONS OF OTHER WORLDS!

Unexpected fighters from beyond the DC Comics enter the arena! Wait… What? WHO?! As the remaining champions in the K.O. tournament prepare for the final rounds, they discover that there isn’t enough Omega energy left to crown the winner a King Omega. To have any hope of stopping Darkseid, they’ll need to engage in combat with the champions of other worlds beyond our own including Annabelle, Homelander, Sub-Zero, and more! This shocking, star-studded crossover sets the stage for the final chapters of the epic DC K.O. event and features matchups you never imagined possible. The ultimate battle is only beginning!

On sale 2/4/2026. Don’t Miss Out Date 1/12/2026.

35. DC K.O.: KNIGHTFIGHT #4 (OF 4)

FOR BATMAN TO WIN, DOES DAMIAN HAVE TO LOSE?

Bruce Wayne became Batman to strike terror into the hearts of criminals, but he never imagined a world where Gotham City would be so safe it no longer needs its Caped Crusader. But when he arrives in a Gotham where Damian achieved that very peace, will Bruce destroy everything his son has built to overcome the Heart of Apokolips’s test and re-enter the K.O. tournament?

On sale 2/4/2026. Don’t Miss Out Date 1/12/2026.

36. DC K.O. #4

THE FINAL FOUR ARE PUT TO THE ABSOLUTE TEST!

Three mysterious new Omega-charged fighters have entered the tournament… and this trinity of the Absolute will change the face of the DCU forever! It’s all down to how far the final four are willing to go to win in the penultimate chapter of DC K.O.! Plus: Booster’s true allegiance revealed, Darkseid’s return foretold, and a bonkers last page that will bring the battle to the next level!

On sale 2/11/2026. Don’t Miss Out Date 1/19/2026.

37. AQUAMAN #14

RAGE OF POSEIDON!

Andrina’s true nature is revealed as Aquaman is confronted by Poseidon himself! Mera has one chance to help her true love, but its action could destroy the avatar of the blue forever!

On sale 2/11/2026. Don’t Miss Out Date 1/19/2026.

38. TITANS #32

THE TITANS ARE EARTH’S LAST LINE OF DEFENSE!

Jinx is terrorizing Gemworld, Cyborg is gone, and the Titans are spread across the galaxy. With their backs against the wall, Arsenal and Donna Troy prepare for battle as the last line of defense against Darkseid’s forces! Is this the Titans last stand… or is it the beginning of something new?

On sale 2/18/2026. Don’t Miss Out Date 1/26/2026.

39. SUPERMAN #35

THE END IS NIGH!

Superman’s time in the tournament has taken its toll. And now Darkseid’s Legion plans to make a massive sacrifice for their lord, and Time Trapper is too late to stop them. Only three unlikely heroes can show the corrupted Legion the light… The end of this issue sets up the end of DC K.O. but also massive status quo changes for Superman!

On sale 2/25/2026. Don’t Miss Out Date 2/2/2026.

40. THE FLASH #30

SPEEDSTERS FROM THE PRESENT MEET DARKSEID FROM THE PAST!

The Speedsters’ race through time has led them to an encounter with a Darkseid from the past, and their escape leads them to a shocking reunion!

On sale 2/25/2026. Don’t Miss Out Date 2/2/2026.

41. JUSTICE LEAGUE UNLIMITED #16

MR. TERRIFIC IN HELL!

As the Earth’s mass evacuation continues, in order to save millions, Mr. Terrific and (what’s left of) his Terrific Ten must march through Hell to confront its ultimate ruler, Neron–and expose the traitor in their midst!

On sale 2/25/2026. Don’t Miss Out Date 2/2/2026.

Go Ninja Go: All About TMNT and Naruto!

Posted on August 15, 2024 | by Super Robot Lifeform

November 2024 marks a turning point in American life as citizens turn out in droves to make an important choice: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #1—which variant should I get? Also that month: Elections. But if this is the first you’re hearing about this crossover, you’re probably so excited you can’t even remember who’s running! Or is that just wishful thinking?

A team-up between the TMNT and Naruto seems so natural it’s a wonder that no one thought of it earlier. They’re all teenagers. They’re all ninjas. Naruto is just a splash of mutagenic ooze and a pet store away from being the Fifth Turtle. His name even ends in O!

Right now, some of you out there may be saying to yourselves, “Gosh, I know nothing about one or both of these cultural powerhouses, but I’m uncomfortable admitting it to my friends and loved ones.” Kiss that anxiety good-bye! One of our mottos here at Ash Avenue Comics is: There Are No Stupid Questions. For you, the TMNT and/or Naruto newcomer, we present this helpful primer on the basics of each series.

WHAT IS NARUTO?

Naruto is a popular Japanese manga and anime series created by Masashi Kishimoto, drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese culture, samurai films, and the ninja genre. It debuted in Weekly Shōnen Jump magazine in 1999 and was later adapted into a hit anime series. The protagonist, Naruto Uzumaki, is a young ninja who seeks recognition from his peers and dreams of becoming the Hokage, the leader and strongest ninja of his village.

Naruto became one of the best-selling manga series in history, with over 250 million copies sold worldwide. The success of Naruto led to a massive franchise that includes movies, video games, merchandise, and spin-offs.

In Naruto‘s world, ninjas (known as shinobi) are organized into villages. Naruto, an orphan, lives in the Hidden Leaf Village. Other villagers view him with suspicion because he carries within him the Nine-Tails, a powerful and malevolent fox spirit that once attacked the village. Naruto’s father, the Fourth Hokage, sealed the Nine-Tails inside the newborn Naruto to protect the village.

CAST

Naruto Uzumaki: Our main man. Naruto is a loud, energetic, and determined young ninja. Despite being ostracized by the other Hidden Leafers, Naruto remains optimistic and works tirelessly to gain recognition and achieve his dream of becoming the Hokage.
Sasuke Uchiha: Naruto’s rival and a member of the Uchiha clan, one of the most powerful and tragic clans in the village. Sasuke is driven by a desire for revenge against his older brother, Itachi, who massacred their clan.
Sakura Haruno: A fellow member of Naruto and Sasuke’s team. She is intelligent, determined, and harbors a crush on Sasuke.
Kakashi Hatake: The leader of Team 7, which includes Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura. Kakashi is a highly skilled and mysterious ninja with a laid-back attitude but a deep sense of responsibility for his students.

IMPORTANT STORIES

Naruto is divided into two main parts:

Naruto (Part I): The first part focuses on Naruto’s early days as a ninja and his training in the Hidden Leaf Village. It covers his missions with Team 7, his rivalry with Sasuke, and the ongoing conflicts between various ninja villages. A key part of this arc is the Chunin Exams, where young ninjas compete to advance in rank, leading to significant character development and key battles.
Naruto: Shippuden (Part II): Set two and a half years after Part I, this part follows Naruto as a teenager. The story becomes darker and more complex, focusing on the Akatsuki, a group of rogue ninjas seeking to capture all the tailed beasts, including the Nine-Tails within Naruto. This part explores deeper themes of war, loss, and destiny, as Naruto and his friends grow stronger and confront increasingly powerful enemies.

Following the conclusion of Naruto Shippuden, the story continues with Boruto: Naruto Next Generations, which focuses on Naruto’s son, Boruto Uzumaki, and the new generation of ninjas.

**WHAT IS TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES?**

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) are four anthropomorphic turtles—Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael—who were mutated by a mysterious ooze. They were trained in ninjitsu by their rat sensei, Splinter, who also mutated from the same ooze. They were created in 1984 by artists Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird, who self-published a run of 3000 copies of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 using a tax refund and a loan from Eastman’s uncle. They called their publishing company Mirage Studios because they had no real studio—just their living room.

Eastman and Laird were two struggling comic book artists who shared a small studio apartment in Dover, New Hampshire. They were both passionate about comics and were inspired by popular titles of the time, including Daredevil and Ronin by Frank Miller, and Cerebus by Dave Sim.

One night, while brainstorming ideas and making each other laugh, Eastman sketched a turtle standing upright, wearing a mask, and wielding nunchaku. Laird liked it and sketched his own version of the turtle. Eastman then drew a group of four turtles, each with different weapons, and labeled them “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.” The idea so tickled them both they decided to move forward with producing and publishing a book based on the characters.

In 2000, Laird bought Eastman’s share of the franchise, and in 2009, Laird sold the rights to TMNT to Nickelodeon, although both still participate in creative roles for TMNT titles in various ways.

CAST

Leonardo: The leader. He wields two katanas. Leads.
Donatello: The smart one. He has a bo staff. Does machines.
Raphael: The angry one. He has a pair of sai. Cool, but rude.
Michelangelo: The fun one. He uses nunchuks. A party dude.
Splinter: The turtles’ sensei and father figure, a mutant rat who teaches them ninjutsu. He’s a radical rat.
The Shredder: Leader of the Foot Clan and Splinter’s archenemy. These Turtle boys don’t cut him no slack.
April O’Neil: A close friend of the turtles, a scientist or journalist (depending on the version) who aids them in their fight against crime.
Casey Jones: A goalie mask-wearing vigilante who fights crime using sports equipment.
The Foot Clan: A criminal organization of ninjas led by Shredder, frequently battling the turtles.

IMPORTANT STORIES

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Vol. 1) #1-12 by Eastman and Laird: These issues introduce most of the cast members, locations, alien races, and ideas that go on to inform every other version of the Turtles. I particularly love the Fugitoid/Triceratons arc from issues 4-6.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Vol. 1) #19-21 (“Return to New York”) by Eastman, Laird, and Jim Lawson: The Turtles, having been run out of New York by the Foot Clan, return to settle the score with the Shredder once and for all. Fantastic, moody storytelling by Jim Lawson, a sorely underappreciated artist. Chock-full of great Raphael/Leonardo rivalry material. The climactic Shredder vs. Leonardo battle is one of the best-choreographed fight scenes of the 80s.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Vol. 1) #50-62 (“City at War”) by Eastman, Laird, and Lawson: Following the Shredder’s death, the Turtles are drawn into a power struggle within the Foot Clan while they (along with April and Casey) confront the realities of growing up and making your own way in the world. This story introduces Karai. A guy named A.C. Farley did great covers for most of these issues.
The Last Ronin by Eastman, Laird, Tom Waltz, Esau and Isaac Escorza, and Ben Bishop: In a crumbling, post-apocalytic New York City, the last Ninja Turtle pursues a lonely mission of justice for his fallen brothers.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #1

TMNT x Naruto #1 goes on sale on November 13! Be sure to pre-order your copies here so you don’t miss out:

Class Is in Session: Your Guide to Monster High Characters!

Posted on August 2, 2024 | by Super Robot Lifeform

The Monster High Pride 2024 comic is our hottest seller this year, and remains our most-viewed product listing even now, months after publication. Fortunately, you Monster High-loving boos and ghouls have another chance to catch up with their favorite dead student body with the debut of IDW’s Monster High: New Scaremester #1! Monster High has become an influential pop culture touchstone over the last fifteen years (Netflix’s Wednesday clearly draws some inspiration from it), but the typical comic book reader may not know all the ins and outs. My wife, Beegee, is an avid Monster High collector, so these creepy kids have been haunting me whenever I walk into our studio for years now. They’re like family. Now let me be your ghastly guide through the horrific halls of Monster High!

“Monster High” was created by Garrett Sander, with illustrations by Kellee Riley and illustrator Glen Hanson. The line was lauched by Mattel in 2010, featuring a range of fashion dolls, books, and other assorted tie-in products that follow the children of famous monsters attending high school. With unique characters and inclusive themes, the series quickly gained popularity.

The series features a diverse group of teenagers who are the children of famous monsters such as Dracula, Frankenstein, and the Werewolf. Your typical Monster High story revolves around the characters navigating high school life and embracing their unique identities and differences. (Here’s a free play scenario for you kids out there: Re-cast your Rainbow High and LOL Surprise dolls as the children of famous monster-hunters who go to a rival school called Van Helsing High or Simon Belmont High and get them all dressed up for the most ill-advised mixer ever!)

Their world has become well-populated through the years, but this is the core cast of Monster High characters as I see it:

Frankie Stein: The daughter of Frankenstein’s monster and his bride, known for their kind and friendly nature. Taking after their parents, they have a stitched-up appearance. To the extent that Monster High has a main character, I gather that it’s Frankie, although it seems to me that in the current generation of Monster High, they’ve been replaced by…
Draculaura: The fabulous fanged daughter of Count Dracula, recognizable by her trademark pink-and-black color scheme. She’s a vegetarian vampire with a sweet and bubbly personality. Beegee’s favorite.
Clawdeen Wolf: The daughter of the Werewolf, Clawdeen is known for her fashion sense and confidence. She has a fierce personality and a protective nature towards her friends.
Lagoona Blue: The daughter of the Sea Monster, Lagoona is laid-back and loves sports. She has a kind and easy-going personality.
Ghoulia Yelps: The daughter of Zombies, Ghoulia is highly intelligent but communicates primarily through moans and groans. She is the brainy and resourceful character of the group. I always think her name is Julia Ghoulia because of The Wedding Singer. I don’t know if that interests you or not. Her doll is cool because it glows in the dark.

Some of the satellite characters include:

Venus McFlytrap: The daughter of a man-eating plant. Venus McFlytrap is awesome. My personal favorite.
Toralei: The rock ‘n roll daughter of werecats. She’s a female orange tabby, which means she’s good luck. Bit of a shedder. (That’s not canon.)
Abbey Bominable: Daughter of the Yeti, known for her straightforward personality and icy powers.
Spectra Vondergeist: Daughter of ghosts, she can phase through walls and loves to spread gossip.
Rochelle Goyle: Daughter of gargoyles, she’s strong and protective of the other students. She’s from Scaris, which I think is Paris in Monster High World.
Operetta: Daughter of the Phantom of the Opera, she has a passion for music and a rebellious streak.

Don’t miss out on Monster High: New Scaremester #1! For the latest updates on upcoming Monster High dolls (as well as other lines such as Barbie, LOL Surprise, and Rainbow High), YouLoveIt.com is a great site to bookmark.

All About Deadpool and Wolverine!

Posted on July 27, 2024 | by Super Robot Lifeform

Welcome to the MCU, Deadpool and Wolverine!

Deadpool & Wolverine is shredding records at the box office this weekend! If you’re a newcomer to Marvel’s favorite odd couple, we’ve put together this primer on their storied four-color exploits through the years!

Deadpool vs. Wolverine is a popular matchup in Marvel Comics, pitting two of the most famous Weapon X alumni against each other. Their encounters are marked by intense battles, humor, and a deep, often antagonistic, respect for one another.

Both Deadpool and Wolverine are products of the Weapon X program. Wolverine (Logan) was given an adamantium skeleton and claws, while Deadpool (Wade Wilson) received a regenerative healing factor similar to Wolverine’s.

Wolverine is often depicted as serious, stoic, and gruff, while Deadpool is irreverent, talkative, and unpredictable. This contrast adds an interesting dynamic to their interactions.

Deadpool and Wolverine have fought numerous times in the comics. These battles are typically brutal, given their respective healing factors, which allow them to recover quickly from injuries that would be fatal to others.

Despite their frequent clashes, there is a mutual respect between the two characters. Wolverine often sees potential in Deadpool, albeit frustrated by his antics, while Deadpool admires Wolverine’s toughness and straightforwardness.

Aside from fighting, Deadpool and Wolverine have also teamed up on several occasions, often reluctantly. Their team-ups are usually filled with banter and conflict but ultimately showcase their effectiveness as a duo.

Some notable storylines featuring their clashes include:

“Deadpool: The Circle Chase”: One of the early stories featuring Deadpool going up against Wolverine.
“Deadpool vs. Old Man Logan”: A mini-series where the older, grizzled version of Wolverine (Old Man Logan) teams up and clashes with Deadpool.

Their dynamic, combining fierce combat with humor and grudging camaraderie, makes Deadpool vs. Wolverine a consistently entertaining and popular aspect of Marvel Comics.

Created by writer Fabian Nicieza and artist/writer Rob Liefeld, Deadpool first appeared in “The New Mutants” #98 in 1991. Deadpool is known for his regenerative healing factor, breaking the fourth wall, and his irreverent and often humorous personality. Initially introduced as a villain, he evolved into an antihero and has become a fan favorite. Deadpool’s stories often include dark humor, satire, and action-packed adventures.

Deadpool’s origin story is a blend of tragedy, dark humor, and superhero elements:

Wade Wilson was a former Special Forces operative who turned mercenary. He was known for his skills in combat and his sharp wit.

Wade was diagnosed with terminal cancer, leading him to volunteer for the Weapon X program (the same program that gave Wolverine his adamantium skeleton). The program promised to cure his cancer by giving him a regenerative healing factor.

The experiment granted Wade a powerful healing ability, making him nearly immortal. However, the process was incredibly painful and left him severely disfigured. His skin became scarred and his mental state deteriorated, contributing to his erratic behavior and dark sense of humor.

After escaping the Weapon X facility, Wade took on the moniker Deadpool. He donned a red-and-black costume and became a mercenary-for-hire, combining his combat skills, healing factor, and unique brand of humor.

One of Deadpool’s defining traits is his awareness that he is a character in a comic book, often breaking the fourth wall to address the readers directly. This meta-narrative adds a layer of comedy and satire to his stories.

Deadpool’s origin has been retold and revised multiple times, but these core elements remain consistent, shaping him into the unconventional and beloved antihero he is today.

Wolverine, also known as Logan, is a mutant with animal-like senses, enhanced physical capabilities, and a regenerative healing factor that allows him to recover from almost any injury. Wolverine is also famous for his retractable bone claws coated with the indestructible metal adamantium. He is a member of the X-Men, a team of superheroes who fight for peace and equality between humans and mutants.

Wolverine’s origins are complex and have evolved over time through various storylines in Marvel Comics. His character was first introduced in “The Incredible Hulk” #180 in 1974, with a full appearance in issue #181. Here are the key points about his origins:

Wolverine’s real name is James Howlett, and he was born in the late 19th century in Canada. His mutant powers manifested during his childhood, triggered by the traumatic events of his father’s murder and his own accidental killing of his biological father, Thomas Logan.

Young James discovered his bone claws and healing factor during these early traumatic events. Fleeing from his past, he adopted the name “Logan” and lived a life of hardship and violence.

Logan was abducted by the Weapon X program, a secret government initiative aiming to create the perfect soldier. They infused his skeleton with adamantium, making his bones and claws virtually indestructible. The process also severely impacted his memories, leaving much of his past a mystery to him.

Throughout his life, Logan served in various military conflicts, including World War I, World War II, and the Vietnam War, which further honed his combat skills.

Eventually, Wolverine joined the X-Men, a team of mutants led by Professor Charles Xavier. As a member of the X-Men, he became one of the team’s most iconic and formidable members, known for his fierce fighting skills, unbreakable spirit, and complex personality.

Wolverine’s story also involves a complicated family history and connections to other characters, such as his half-brother Sabretooth and his female clone, X-23 (Laura Kinney), who later adopts the Wolverine mantle.

These elements collectively shape Wolverine’s character, making him one of the most enduring and multifaceted figures in the Marvel Universe.

Wolverine has a long list of enemies, many of whom are among the most dangerous and formidable in the Marvel Universe. Here are some of his most notable adversaries:

Sabretooth (Victor Creed): Perhaps Wolverine’s most personal and recurring enemy, Sabretooth shares a similar power set, including a healing factor and enhanced senses. Their rivalry is deeply personal, with Sabretooth often tormenting Wolverine both physically and psychologically.
Lady Deathstrike (Yuriko Oyama): A cyborg with adamantium claws, Lady Deathstrike has a vendetta against Wolverine, blaming him for her father’s death and seeking revenge for her family’s honor.
The Silver Samurai (Keniuchio Harada): A skilled samurai with the ability to charge his katana with tachyon energy, the Silver Samurai is often depicted as a mercenary and adversary of Wolverine, particularly during his time in Japan.
Omega Red (Arkady Rossovich): A Russian mutant with deadly carbonadium tentacles and a need to drain the life force of others to sustain himself. Omega Red has a personal vendetta against Wolverine, often clashing with him due to their shared history.
Daken (Akihiro): Wolverine’s son, Daken, possesses similar powers to his father but harbors deep resentment towards him. This resentment fuels a complex and antagonistic relationship.
The Reavers: A group of cyborg mercenaries led by Donald Pierce, the Reavers have frequently targeted Wolverine and the X-Men. Lady Deathstrike is often associated with this group.
Romulus: A shadowy figure with a deep connection to Wolverine’s past, Romulus has been manipulating events from behind the scenes for centuries. He possesses similar powers and has been a significant antagonist in Wolverine’s life.
The Hand: A ninja organization that has clashed with Wolverine numerous times, particularly due to their involvement in mystical and criminal activities. Wolverine’s encounters with The Hand often intersect with his connections to other characters like Elektra and Daredevil.
Viper (Madame Hydra): A ruthless and cunning terrorist leader, Viper has been both an adversary and occasional ally to Wolverine. Her criminal activities and leadership of organizations like HYDRA put her at odds with Wolverine and the X-Men.

These enemies have tested Wolverine’s physical and mental limits, contributing to his status as one of Marvel’s most complex and enduring heroes.

Wolverine has had several significant love interests over the years in Marvel Comics, many of whom have had a profound impact on his life and character. Here are some of the most notable ones:

Jean Grey: One of the most prominent and enduring love interests, Jean Grey, a fellow X-Men member, shares a deep, complicated relationship with Wolverine. Despite her primary romantic involvement with Cyclops (Scott Summers), Wolverine’s love for Jean remains a significant aspect of his character.
Mariko Yashida: Mariko Yashida, a member of a powerful Japanese family, is perhaps Wolverine’s most significant romantic partner. Their relationship is marked by deep love and mutual respect, though it is often fraught with tragedy and cultural complications. Mariko was even engaged to Wolverine at one point, but their relationship was cut short due to various adversities.
Silver Fox: Silver Fox was Wolverine’s lover in the early 20th century, and their relationship was tragically cut short when she was seemingly killed by Sabretooth. Her death deeply affected Wolverine and played a crucial role in his ongoing feud with Sabretooth.
Itsu: Itsu was Wolverine’s wife during a period when he sought peace and normalcy in Japan. Their relationship ended tragically when Itsu was murdered by the Winter Soldier, leading to the revelation that she was pregnant with Daken, Wolverine’s son.
Yukio: A free-spirited and skilled Japanese ninja, Yukio shares a passionate but tumultuous relationship with Wolverine. Their bond is based on mutual respect and a shared love of adventure and combat.
Storm (Ororo Munroe): In alternate timelines and some story arcs, Wolverine has had a romantic relationship with Storm, another X-Men member. Their relationship is built on a strong friendship and deep mutual respect.
Mystique (Raven Darkholme): Wolverine and Mystique have a complicated relationship that spans both antagonistic and romantic encounters. Their shared history and complex personalities often lead to a mix of passion and conflict.
Domino (Neena Thurman): In some storylines, Wolverine and Domino, a mercenary with luck-manipulating powers, develop a romantic relationship. Their bond is characterized by mutual understanding and professional respect.

These relationships add depth to Wolverine’s character, revealing his capacity for love, loyalty, and emotional vulnerability despite his often gruff and solitary exterior.

There’s Always Next Week: March 22, 2024

Posted on March 22, 2024 | by Super Robot Lifeform

_{by Paul}

Tough week for Bill Skarsgård, huh? Even our UPS guy is coming in and dunking on this new Crow trailer, and for what? I thought it was fine. He’s fine in it. And if he wasn’t, it’s not like he would even be the worst Crow ever. Edward Furlong played the Crow like he was being held hostage by a drug cartel. Marc Dacascos looked like he was dressed as Brandon Lee for an office Halloween party, but he gets to live his life. So what gives? Is it that, by having the gross effrontery to survive the filming of this Crow re-make, Skarsgård punctures people’s romantic notions surrounding the first movie and Brandon Lee’s death? Lee was so young and un-formed as a celebrity persona when he was accidentally killed on the set of The Crow that it’s only natural that our perceptions of him would harden around that character, a murdered man cut down in the prime of his life alongside his fianceé. Because the news of his death was the first time most people became aware of him, and because storytelling is a way we’ve coped with life’s injustices since the dawn of time, I think a lot of people ascribe Brandon Lee’s death on the set of that specific movie to a kind of grim destiny. By surviving the filming of this re-make, Bill Skarsgård suggests that maybe Lee’s death wasn’t romantic, or fate. Maybe it was just a freak accident that ruined a lot of people’s lives for no good reason, and life is really just a complex web of overlapping coincidences that add up to one big mess. Maybe The Crow was just a regular movie this whole time. Maybe we like it for the wrong reasons. But chin up, Bill Skarsgård! Though today you may be tempest-toss’d by life’s YouTube commentors… There’s Always Next Week!

There's Always Next Week: March 22, 2024 - Ash Avenue Comics

FERAL #1

Art: Trish Forstner | Story: Tony Fleecs (Image Comics, $3.99)

As we discussed last week with Man’s Best, I really am an abysmal chump when it comes to stories about plucky animals in danger. They don’t even have to be good. Replace any human in the most risible, hackneyed scenario with a sad-eyed dog or wisecracking cat and see how dewy my eyes become instantly.

No surprise, then, that Trish Forstner’s Stray Dogs is my favorite comic from the last few years. She draws the way I wish I could draw, wringing every drop of pathos and anxiety out of the adorable Don Bluth-esque dogs she’s placed in the home of a serial killer. It’s twisted, subversive stuff. Now she’s back again with Feral, about a trio of housecats adrift in a world beset by a rabies outbreak, and I cannot wait. I’ve looked forward to this for months. Buy it, read it, read it again.

PRE-ORDER IT: Trish Forstner & Tony Fleecs Main Cover | Trish Forstner & Tony Fleecs Variant | Blank Sketch Cover | 1:10 Trish Forstner & Tony Fleecs Variant | 1:25 Sweeney Boo Variant

PRIMER #1

Art: Gretel Lusky | Story: Jennifer Muro and Thomas Krajewski (DC Comics, $3.99)

It might be controversial to say it, but DC’s superhero comics for the last two decades or so have often been, in my opinion, in questionable taste. My opinion! Yes, I am a creampuff who gets gooey over cartoon animals, but DC heroes are always getting their arms torn off or raped or burned to death or their moms killed or their girlfriends killed and it happens more often than I would like. Where DC reigns supreme, though, is the YA superhero book. They have this on lock. Gabriel Picolo and Kami Garcia’s Teen Titans books are all winners, and Yoshi Yoshitani’s I Am Not Starfire is a classic.

I’ve never heard of Primer before, because I am, as longtime readers know and new readers must suspect, a clod. This is a four-issue re-print of a graphic novel from 2020 (maybe that’s why I don’t remember it). The premise—an artistic girl comes into possession of a set of body paints that give the wearer superpowers—is brilliant, and Gretel Lusky’s art makes you want to crawl into her panels and live there. If you don’t buy it, I will, and I work here so I’ve got the edge. Make your move.

PRE-ORDER IT: Gretel Lusky Main Cover

SAM AND TWITCH: CASE FILES #1

Art: Szymon Kudranski | Story: Todd McFarlane (Image Comics, $2.99)

The last time I read an issue of Spawn, it was about a guy named Paul getting crushed to death by spiked walls for twenty pages while Spawn looked on. I said, “Well! I never!” and went to find a comic about a cuddly animal. Now here’s Sam and Twitch: Case Files #1. I can’t relate the two things. They’re just part of the pageant of life. I take my hat off to Sam and Twitch, though. They’ve stuck it out long enough to have their own Wikipedia entry. They’ve been drawn by great artists like Ashley Wood, Alex Maleev, and now Szymon Kudranski. In silhouette they kind of look like Drew and Varun as detectives. Varun’s leaving us in two weeks and we’ll miss them. Come by the shop and say good-bye while you have a chance.

PRE-ORDER IT: Kevin Keane Main Cover

ON FOC THIS WEEK

Click here to see all titles on FOC this week.

MOON MAN #2

Art: Marco Locati | Story: Kyle Higgins, Scott “Kid Cudi” Mescudi (Image Comics, $3.99) | FOC: 3/25

As Ramon tests the limits of his new abilities, the astronauts return to Janus for more assessment—and the world begins to react to the news of a real-life superhero.

Marco Locati Main Cover
Erica D’Urso Variant
Greg Tocchini Variant

NINJA FUNK: B.A.D. MUSIC #1 (OF 4)

Art: Alessandro Micelli | Story: JPG (Massive/Whatnot, $4.99) | FOC: 3/25

Following the battle at the Ninja Funk Dojo and capture of BB, B.A.D. Music retreats to their headquarters at The Nexus. With the love of Lazerwolf’s life as irresistible bait, there’s no doubt in Queen B.A.D.’s mind that her nemeses will come knocking, and she’s ready for them…

Will Lazerwolf, JPG Mcfly and Wolfgang see the trap for what it is, or run headlong into disaster? Find out in Ninja Funk: B.A.D. Music #1!

David Mack Main Cover
Alessandro Micelli Variant
Tyler Kirkham Variant

SLASH PRESENTS: DEATHSTALKER #1

Art: Jim Terry | Story: Slash, Tim Seeley, Steven Kostanski (Vault Comics, $4.99) | FOC: 3/24

The cult-classic warrior-hero Deathstalker bursts into the comics scene from an all-star lineup of creators including Slash (Guns N’ Roses) and writer-director-creature-FX-wizard Steven Kostanski (Psycho Goreman, The Void)! Deathstalker finds himself once again caught between forces larger than himself—a virgin worshiping cult, a sorcerer hell-bent on saving the world through mad science, and the pissed-off army of the Abraxeon kingdom… not to mention his ex-lover, Princess Evie. Monsters, magic, and mayhem abound… can’t a guy just swing his sword anymore?

Nathan Gooden Main Cover
Jim Terry Variant
Conor Boyle Variant
John Patrick Ganas Variant
Dan Panosian Variant
Boris Vallejo Variant
Angela Wu Variant
Boris Vallejo/Slash Signed Variant (Allocations May Occur)