DC Comics has revealed that Absolute Batman #1 is the best-selling comic of 2024. Absolute Batman sold just under 400,000 copies as a periodical sold through the direct market across all print runs.
For context, IDW revealed earlier this year that Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 had sold over 300,000 copies.
Considering the names of the authors of this issue, Scott Snyder, Nick Dragotta, Frank Martin, and Clayton Cowles, there is no doubt that it would have sold as many copies as it did. However, the number of comics with a solid 400,000 copies is high, and “Transformers” #1, the best-selling comic in 2023, has not reached that number (although it has exceeded 200,000 copies). .
In fact, there may be several reasons for this huge turnover.
Perhaps first and foremost, the reprint of the first issue and the Absolute Batman: Noir edition increased sales numbers and sales. Even though comic shops placed large orders for the first edition, they had to return it for multiple printings. Second, expectations for Absolute Batman and other Absolute Universe titles were high. DC had never previously rebooted the Trinity of heroes in a separate line like Marvel’s Ultimate Universe, which added to the interest. The fact that it was touted to be darker and edgier than the main universe also helped. Finally, Snyder’s previous Batman outing was one of his most popular and successful to date, and he has been away from DC for several years, so expectations for his next DC Comics work are high. It was higher than ever.
Of course, there are other factors as well, including Nick Dragotta’s stunning art and design, and the steady buildup of buzz around the first issue thanks to press interviews and comic creators sharing their love for the comic before its release. Well, the fact that it’s Batman also helped.
Here’s the path to the best-selling comic:
Absolute Batman #1 1st printing — released 10/9. Available at your local comic book shop while supplies last. Absolute Batman #1 2nd printing — on sale 10/30. Available at your local comic book shop while supplies last. Absolute Batman: Noir Edition #1—on sale 11/13. Available while supplies last at your local comic book shop. Absolute Batman #1 3rd printing — on sale 11/27. Pre-order at your local comic book store
Listen to Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta’s interview about the series below.
Check out the third printing cover of Absolute Batman #1 below.
