Absolute Superman #16
| Writer | Jason Aaron |
| Artist | Juan Ferreyra |
| Cover Price | $4.99 |
Superman finds himself at the forefront of a bold new age of heroes in the Absolute Universe, but he quickly learns that he wasn't the world's first super-powered protector. Enter Hawkman, who has a few tips for the new kid, whether he wants to hear them or not!
CRITIC REVIEWS
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10
Geek Dad - Ray Goldfield
Feb 04, 2026The villains in the Absolute Universe are quickly proving themselves to be the real stars of these comics. Read Full Review
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10
The Aspiring Kryptonian - Tyrone Tony Reed Jr
Feb 04, 2026I loved Absolute Superman #16 this creative team, this story, this universe, and its characters. If I had never read a classic Superman story and this series was my first introduction to the character, I would still love Superman just as much as I do now. Over the years, Ive heard people say Superman isnt relatable. Ive never agreed. But if I heard that argument today, Id point them directly to this series. It feels strikingly close to the world we live in nowminus, unfortunately, the superheroes. Read Full Review
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10
Nerd Initiative - Matthew Roth
Feb 04, 2026Absolute Superman #16 is a clash of egos and characters on two opposite ends of the spectrum. It puts Superman's heart back into who he is and always has been, reminding us that, despite being in a new universe, this is still Superman. Read Full Review
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10
But Why Tho? - William Tucker
Feb 04, 2026Absolute Superman Issue 16demonstrates the change in the universe. Before Superman emerged, Hawkman was the only way a metahuman could exist. Read Full Review
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9.6
SciFiPulse - Ian Cullen
Feb 09, 2026This was a really enjoyable issue that brings Hawkman into the fold and shows Superman that there are other heroes out there, including ones he won't always agree with. I liked that we still get a glimpse of Lazarus Corp continuing to operate under Talia al Ghul, which nicely hints at future conflicts. The segment featuring Brainiac attempting to recruit a Lex Luthor who is the complete opposite of the version we all know and love was another highlight. All of these threads help build a much larger universe, and it's fun to see it taking shape. Read Full Review
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9.6
Supergirl Comic Box Commentary - Anj
Feb 09, 2026Absolute Brainiac has seen other universes!! Luthor has a backyard and kids!! Amazing! And another great cliffhanger! I have to say, I enjoyed this issue a lot. A lot! The pace is so different from earlier issues. But the world building is there. The Hawkman stuff - the origin, the 'lessons', the fight - sang to me. And meeting Luthor was a bonus. Add to that the gorgeous art and this is a winner! Read Full Review
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9.5
Lyles Movie Files - Jeffrey Lyles
Feb 05, 2026Aaron has this book going in a few interesting directions with intriguing subplots like Brainiac's first meeting with Lex Luthor, that won't go well for one of them. This series is gaining more momentum and is fast approaching the can't miss status of its early Absolute Universe peers. Read Full Review
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9.4
Fanlight Zone - Ken M.
Feb 04, 2026An absolute showdown begins with some fireworks behind it in this latest chapter. Aaron's writing keeps readers on toes as it bears many different takes. Ferreyra's art hits the spot as the two titans begin their confrontation. This series never falters on delivering something special for readers every time out. Read Full Review
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9.2
The Comic Book Spot - Jeremy Bonnette
Feb 06, 2026Absolute Superman #16 gives the reader plenty to chew on. The introduction of Absolute Hawkman gives Superman a means to learn and grow as a superhero. It looks like he'll have to learn quickly, thanks to the arrival of Parasite and the ongoing threat of Brainiac. Have fun, comic lovers! Read Full Review
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9.0
KPB Comics - Stan West
Feb 05, 2026Absolute Superman #16 asks whether idealism can survive in a cynical world. Hawkman tells Clark to compromise and work with tyrants like Lazarus. Superman answers with a single, devastating punch, beautifully brought to life on one of the line's best splash pages. Aaron understands what makes Superman special, and Ferreyra makes it gorgeous. This book keeps getting better. Read Full Review
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9.0
Henchman-4-Hire - Sean Ian Mills
Feb 07, 2026Much like with Wonder Woman fighting Zatanna, we’ve got Superman fighting Hawkman, and the Absolute Universe continues to make great use of classic characters. Especially when it comes to great artwork. Read Full Review
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8.7
The Super Powered Fancast - Deron Generally
Feb 04, 2026Aaron crafts an entertaining story in this issue. There are great moments of tension between Superman and Hawkman and their ideological clashes are interesting to see. I like the side stories with Lois and Jimmy, but the B story with Brainiac and Lex Luthor was definitely the highlight of the issue and the dark turn it takes makes me excited to see what happens next. Read Full Review
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8.6
Comic Watch - Christian Laspada
Feb 04, 2026Absolute Superman #16 is an absolute gem and an essential read. A mix of real-world parallels and Supermans fight for freedom is the refreshing take we needed. The narrative is strong, emotional, and filled with timely relevant themes. If youre not reading Absolute Superman, you are missing out. Read Full Review
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8.5
AIPT - Collier Jennings
Feb 04, 2026Absolute Superman #16builds on the foundation ofAbsolute Eviland hints at the larger world Kal-El inhabits. It's also packed wall to wall with the kind of action and horror you wouldn't usually expect in a Superman book, but that's what makes this comic stand out. Read Full Review
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8.5
Comic Book Revolution - Kevin Lainez
Feb 08, 2026Absolute Superman #16 is a strong world building chapter for this series. There are so many details that are packed in this comic book that goes beyond the start of Absolute Superman vs Hawkman. Read Full Review
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7.5
Weird Science - Gabe Hernandez
Feb 05, 2026Absolute Superman #16 packs mentor mayhem and villain twists that reward your stack time with solid hooks and brawls. It earns a spot if you're chasing Absolute Universe buildup, but casual wallets might wait for the Parasite payoff. Sharp enough to fly above average monthly fare. Read Full Review