TheFlashhas stood the test of time as a staple of the DC Universe, with his design evolving over the years to reflect trends and to appeal to readers. DC’s brand-new Absolute Universe is now on the horizon, and with it has come updated versions of traditional heroes. Among these is the Flash, who just got a striking redesign in artwork thatgives the Fastest Man Alive a modern makeover for his exciting new era.
At San Diego Comic Con 2024, DC Comics unveiled the next comic in the new Absolute Universe line.Absolute Flash, written by Jeff Lemire and drawn by Nick Robles, will tell the story of a teenage Wally West that takes place in a dark worldborn from Darkseid’s energy. Ina post on X, Robles shared breathtaking art of his take on Wally, giving him a fresh look that sets him apart from the Wally West of DC’s main continuity.
With a punk rock mullet and piercings,Wally West’s new design for the Absolute Universe proves that Absolute Flash will be a superhero for the next generation, just like he was for another generation of fans.
Wally West’s ’90s Look Just Got the Gen Z Update It Deserves
Making Absolute Flash the Perfect Hero for Next Gen Readers
Wally West’s new design forAbsolute Flashis a trendy homage toWally’s look from the 1990s, with his mullet finally being back in style, but this design is executed with a Gen Z twist that makes all the difference. Robles' refreshing take on Wally provides an opportunity to modernize Flash the way Wally originally did for readers in the late ’80s and early ’90s. Back in the day, Wally West paved the way for the next generation of heroes as heinherited the Flash mantlefrom Barry Allen, soit’s only fitting that his Absolute Universe counterpart represents the same idea for this day and age.
Flash Kills Off a Fan-Favorite Villain After 35 Years
One of the Flash’s most iconic rogues has just been killed off in the most horrific way possible, suffering from a fate that’s even worse than death.
The Absolute Universe’s Flash can reach this new generation of readers and give them a hero they can see themselves in, as he did back in the ’90s.
Absolute Flash’s new version of Wallyreimagines the Flash to be more relatable for Gen Z comic readers. In his early days, Wally faced struggles that teens could relate to, such as relationship drama and rebelling against authority figures, but now his stories tend to revolve around balancing hisresponsibilities as the Flashwith his duties as a husband and father. While this makes for a compelling narrative, it isn’t a conflict that a younger demographic really resonates with. The Absolute Universe’s Flash can reach this new generation of readers and give them a hero they can see themselves in, as he once did back in the ’90s.
Absolute Flash Is the Next Generation’s Flash
A Wally West for the 2020s
The Absolute Universe’s Flash may seem like a bold departure from theWally West fans know and love, butRobles' eye-catching design couldn’t be more fitting for this teenage version of the Scarlet Speedster. With no sign of Barry Allen or Jay Garrick, it looks like Wally West will be originating the Flash mantle in this universe. Wally has always symbolized legacy, but now he’s ready to build his own and become the face of theFlashfor a new generation, redefining his original purpose for today’s world.
Absolute Flash#1does not yet have a release date from DC Comics, but will be available in 2025.
Source:Nick Robles
The Flash
The Flash is the superhero name given to the DC Comics character who utilizes unparalleled speed tied to a dimensional power known as the “speed force” to overwhelm their opposition. Premiering in 1939, the original Flash arrived as Jay Garrick. Still, it would be superseded by Barry Allen in popularity and featured status, but the Flash is one character that has met many of their alternate selves. The character is typically seen as a part of the Justice League in nearly all incarnations.
