REVIEW: Absolute Superman #13

Absolute Superman #13: “The Battle of Kansas, Part Two: The Free State of Smallville” is a true-blue Superman blockbuster story fit for the big screen. Writer Jason Aaron, artist Rafa Sandoval, and colorist Ulises Arreola continue to cultivate this bold new world of the Man of Steel within the Absolute Universe—one born from the corrupt energy of Darkseid himself.

This installment feels like a classic DC Universe Superman story—only this time, the characters are trapped in an alternate reality they can’t escape, no matter how hard they try. With no other recourse, these reimagined versions of Superman’s supporting cast take justice into their own hands and make a final stand against evil. This issue marks a major turning point for the series. But before we dig into that, let’s talk about these stunning covers.

The main cover by Rafa Sandoval and Ulises Arreola ignites the page with pure cinematic energy as Superman tears through a battlefield of fiery destruction in Smallville, Kansas. The chaos of shattered Lazarus Corp tanks contrasts beautifully with his calm determination mid-flight. Every streak of light and burst of flame reminds readers that even in war—hope still flies.

Mikel Janín’s variant cover captures Superman in his purest form: soaring, unstoppable, radiant. His AI-sentient sunstone cape, Sol, flows with molten grace against an inferno sky, symbolizing power under control as the Battle of Kansas rages on.

The variant cover by David Talaski delivers a striking, almost spiritual moment underground as Superman reshapes the Earth itself. Bathed in fiery amber light, he becomes the literal foundation of hope—moving terra with quiet strength as he protects the citizens of Smallville from the terror of Ra’s al Ghul’s Lazarus Corp. It’s raw, grounded, and reverent—Superman as the world’s unshakable core.

There is also a stunning variant cover available by Bengal.

The stakes in this series feel immense as Jason Aaron delves deep into the intimate thoughts of these reimagined Superman characters. It’s in those internal reflections that we recognize the heart of the originals—proof that you can take these icons out of their classic world, twist their histories, and challenge their morals, yet their true essence will still shine through.

As Aaron builds toward the inevitable clash between Ra’s al Ghul and Superman, Sandoval and Arreola bring it all to life with cinematic precision. The artwork is a feast for readers—a front-row seat to the Battle of Smallville, Kansas. You can feel the heat, hear the metal shatter, and sense the weight of every decision. These characters begin to realize something about their lives isn’t quite right. There’s a subtle awareness—a truth they can’t yet grasp—but they know the tide is turning, and someone has changed everything for the better.

This is, without question, my favorite comic book series of the year. The story is gripping, the visuals are breathtaking, and the character work is layered with emotional depth. It’s also refreshing to see Ra’s al Ghul—normally a Batman villain—transformed into a hulking, mythic figure capable of going toe-to-toe with Superman without breaking a sweat. Meanwhile, Brainiac lurks in the background, ensuring that the universe still feels vast and dangerous.

(10/10) With emotional depth, visual grandeur, and mythic stakes, Absolute Superman #13 reminds us why Superman remains the heart of the DC Universe—even in worlds twisted by darkness. I saw more of the classic Superman characters I’ve loved for decades reflected in their Absolute counterparts in this issue, and it made the Superman fan in me smile, cheer, and crave more.