REVIEW: Dark Knights of Steel II #1

One of the greatest ideas DC Comics ever produced was Elseworlds, and it remains one of my favorite concepts. Taking familiar heroes and villains and placing them in completely different worlds allows creators to explore them without being restrained by decades of continuity. That was why I was excited when the original Dark Knights of Steel was announced, especially with Tom Taylor, writer of Nightwing, DCeased and Injustice, leading the way.

I thought that story had reached its conclusion, but when Dark Knights of Steel II was announced earlier this year, I was ready to return. Taylor and colorist Arif Prianto are back, now joined by artist Otto Schmidt and letterer Wes Abbott. The creative team may have changed slightly, but the strong storytelling, fantasy atmosphere and beautiful artwork continue.

The issue opens 10 years in the past, when the Kingdom of Metropolis was still at peace, and introduces medieval versions of two familiar DC characters. Readers are also given a helpful character guide and recap of the first series, making this sequel easier to follow for returning readers and more accessible for newcomers. First, the issue’s covers deserve attention.

Yasmine Putri’s main cover launches readers straight into the action, with Aquaman, Queen Diana, Princess Zala-El and Prince Kal-El battling a massive leviathan. Putri, who served as artist and colorist on the original series, fills the image with movement, danger and raw power. The heroes’ positioning makes the cover feel like an epic fantasy scene frozen at its most intense moment.

Travis Moore’s variant trades explosive action for mystery and Gothic romance. Bruce Wayne sits atop a black armored steed beneath a glowing full moon while Talia al Ghul sits behind him. The bat-inspired armor, silhouetted bats and cool blue atmosphere make Bruce look every bit the medieval Dark Knight, while Talia’s presence adds intimacy, danger and uncertainty.

Gerald Parel’s variant presents Queen Diana and Zala-El like the heroes of a classic fantasy film poster. Diana raises her sword toward the sky while Zala stands ready beside her, with a majestic white Pegasus spreading its wings behind them. The dramatic composition gives off strong classic Star Wars poster vibes and turns the couple into larger-than-life figures of love, strength and legend.

Together, the three covers capture what makes this series special: fantasy action, medieval mystery and heroic romance. There are also a variant available by Davide Paratore which is equally as stunning.

Dark Knights of Steel II #1 delivers everything a first issue should. It reintroduces its world, honors what came before, expands its kingdoms and reminds readers why these characters matter. The League may represent a new era of peace, but this opening chapter makes it clear that the swords of these heroes will not remain sheathed for long.

The present-day story takes readers to Amazonia, where Zala-El is being honored during a ceremony. The Kingdom of Metropolis, the Kingdom of Storms and Amazonia are now united as a League, showing how much the political landscape has changed since the original series. Anissa Pierce is now Queen of the Kingdom of Storms, and she attends alongside Princess Jennifer, reinforcing the importance of the event and the unity these kingdoms fought to achieve.

Taylor uses the celebration to naturally reintroduce several major characters while keeping Zala and Diana’s relationship at the emotional center. Their love represents more than romance; it represents hope, healing and the possibility that these kingdoms can move beyond the divisions that once nearly destroyed them. Queen Lara, Prince Kal-El, John Constantine and Lois Lane also appear, while Bruce Wayne remains elsewhere in the world, still searching for his place in it. Taylor gives readers enough to understand that several storylines are beginning without revealing too much too soon. Of course, peace never lasts forever in this world.

A sudden threat places Amazonia in danger and gives Otto Schmidt the opportunity to deliver a spectacular, large-scale fantasy battle. His characters are expressive, his action is energetic and his environments feel perfectly suited for this medieval DC Universe. He does not imitate Putri’s work, but he respects the world she helped create while bringing his own style and movement to it.

Arif Prianto’s colors provide a strong visual connection to the original series. The warmth of the ceremony gives way to darker tones when the atmosphere changes. Wes Abbott’s lettering keeps the dialogue clear and gives the action the impact it needs.

(10/10) Dark Knights of Steel II #1 is an exciting, beautifully illustrated return to one of DC’s best Elseworlds universes. Taylor balances romance, political intrigue, humor, mystery and fantasy action without making the issue feel overcrowded. The character guide and recap welcome new readers, while longtime fans receive meaningful developments and a cliffhanger that makes the next issue essential.