(Image Source: DC Comics / Jorge Corona)
DC found big success over the past year with DC All-In. The line-wide initiative set a new status quo for Earth-Prime and established the new Absolute Universe setting. The publisher is now ready to take the line to the next level, with a phase appropriately called DC Next Level. This will begin in March 2026 with three new monthly series; Lobo, Batwoman, and Deathstroke: The Terminator.
“(We) are excited to enter the second phase of DC All-In with Next Level,” said author Scott Snyder. “We’re determined to build on all of the fan enthusiasm, and the retail support, and story momentum, by continuing to take big swings in 2026.” Joshua Williamson echoed Snyder’s enthusiasm, noting he was “incredibly excited to be involved in this new initiative designed to super-charge DC’s main line.”
The core idea behind DC Next Level is to promote creator-drive series starring fan-favorite characters. Specifically, by approaching the creators and asking what characters they most wanted to develop a new series around. The end result is an eclectic mix spanning the whole of the DC Universe.
Snyder and Williamson were quick to confirm that the DC Next Level line will be set in the current Earth-Prime continuity. However, the new series will be accessible to new readers while existing alongside existing series. ” Like the Absolute line, this is an initiative that welcomes new readers that are looking for a jumping-on spot for DC’s main line of comic books.” said Snyder.
DC Next Level revamping characters into classic forms
(Image Source: DC Comics / Jorge Corona)
There is some irony in the first wave of confirmed DC Next Level series. Much of the hype around the new line is based around “bold new storylines.” However, all of the series summaries so far sound like returns to form for the characters involved. Indeed, one of the new series features the main character’s co-creator returning to write them for the first time in 15 years.
(Image Source: DC Comics / Jorge Corona)
The new Lobo series will be written by Skottie Young, with art by Jorge Corona. Described as “a guts-soaked path from DC K.O. to the end of the universe,” the new series will feature “mayhem, special guests, (and) tasty, tasty, continuity!” Lobo #1 releases on March 4, 2026.
(Image Source: DC Comics / DaNi)
Batwoman #1 will be written by Batwoman co-creator Greg Rucka and feature art by DaNi. The series will pit Batwoman against her old enemies in the Religion of Crime. However, the new series is also said to redefine Kate Kane for a new generation of comic readers. The art preview also reveals that Kate’s arch-enemy, Alice, will be returning as well. Batwoman #1 releases on March 11, 2026.
(Image Source: DC Comics / Carmine Di Giandomenico)
The past few years have seen Deathstroke acting as a leader of supervillains. He formed several teams to take down the Titans and Batman, with no success. However, the new Deathstroke: The Terminator #1 will take him back to his original concept as a lone wolf and the most dangerous assassin in the world of DC Comics. This comes after one of his many enemies puts out a hit on Slade Wilson. Deathstroke: The Terminator #1 debuts on March 18, 2026.
