Publisher: DC Comics

Absolute Superman Issue 22 is published by DC Comics, written by Jason Aaron, with art and colors by Juan Ferreyra, and letters by Becca Carey. The 32-page issue is priced at $4.99 and features a main cover by Rafa Sandoval and Ulises Arreola.

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Absolute Superman Issue 22 (2026) – Read Free Absolute Superman Comics Online

Plot Overview

Absolute Superman Issue 22 kicks off the new “Get Brainiac” story arc, following the epic conclusion of the “Reign of the Superman” storyline. After defeating King Shazam, Superman is determined to bring Brainiac to justice. Brainiac 419,732 has been a constant thorn in Superman’s side, putting him through mental and physical torture. His trail leads Superman to Argentina and a Lazarus facility that might hold answers. However, instead of finding his intended target, Superman confronts a terrifying new enemy: Metallo. This version of Metallo is a horrifying melding of machine and man, fueled by Kryptonite, calling itself “Metallo”.

The Introduction of Absolute Metallo

Absolute Superman Issue 22 brings a fresh take on one of the Man of Steel’s most underrated foes. This version of Metallo is revealed to be Christopher Smith, the former Peacemaker, a man whom Superman watched die at the hands of Ra’s Al Ghul. Brainiac has transformed Smith into a horrific cyborg, a man with Kryptonite in his veins. Metallo not only matches Superman in strength but seems almost unstoppable as Kal-El barely holds his own in a fight through the streets. The cyborg’s Kryptonite blood is slowly poisoning the Man of Steel, leading him to break his bones and bleed profusely.

Key Moments

• Superman’s Hunt for Brainiac: The issue begins with a very traditional Superman beginning, showing the Man of Steel going after Brainiac in a logical response to the events of the previous arc.

• The Battle with Metallo: The action is intense and epic, with whole buildings being shattered as the two titans clash. Ferreyra doesn’t hold back on showcasing how inhuman Metallo looks, giving him a sleek metal suit that covers his entire body, complete with spindly spider legs that skitter around at an inhuman pace.

• The Man Inside the Machine: Jason Aaron reminds us that Superman’s greatest power isn’t heat vision or flight, but his ability to connect with others. Even while facing someone whose very presence is killing him, Superman keeps trying to reach the person trapped beneath the weapon. The final page is equal parts heartwarming and heart-wrenching.

Critical Reception

Reviews for Absolute Superman Issue 22 have been overwhelmingly positive. The Super Powered Fancast gave the issue an 89/100, praising the pulse-pounding action and the drama that culminates in a fantastic moment for Superman. Fanlight Zone awarded the issue a 9/10, calling it a spectacular start to another excellent story arc. The Aspiring Kryptonian gave the issue a perfect 10/10, stating that this new story arc sets the bar high for everything that follows. The return of Juan Ferreyra to art duties has been widely celebrated, with his detailed and dynamic style bringing the world of Absolute Superman to life with energy and dynamism.

The Path to Absolute Superman Issue 25

Absolute Superman Issue 22 kicks off the march to a game-changing blockbuster issue #25. Jason Aaron and Juan Ferreyra are building up to this milestone, which is being teased as a major event for the series and the Absolute Universe in general.

Key Details

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What happens in Absolute Superman Issue 22?
Superman hunts Brainiac to Argentina but instead finds a horrifying new version of Metallo, who is revealed to be the former Peacemaker, Christopher Smith.

2. Who is the villain in Absolute Superman Issue 22?
The issue introduces a new version of Metallo, who is Christopher Smith, the former Peacemaker, transformed into a cyborg by Brainiac.

3. What is the “Get Brainiac” arc?
The “Get Brainiac” arc is a new storyline in Absolute Superman that sees the Man of Steel hunting down the malevolent artificial intelligence Brainiac, who has been a constant threat since the series began.

4. Who is the creative team behind Absolute Superman Issue 22?
The issue is written by Jason Aaron, with art and colors by Juan Ferreyra, and letters by Becca Carey.

5. Is Absolute Superman Issue 22 a good starting point for new readers?
Yes, the issue launches a brand new story arc, making it a perfect jumping-on point for new readers.

6. What is the significance of Metallo in this issue?
This version of Metallo is a horrific melding of machine and man fueled by Kryptonite, and he is revealed to be Christopher Smith, a man Superman once watched die.

7. What is Absolute Superman Issue 25?
Absolute Superman Issue 25 is being teased as a major milestone for the series and the Absolute Universe in general.

8. Who is the artist for Absolute Superman Issue 22?
The issue features art and colors by Juan Ferreyra, with a main cover by Rafa Sandoval.