Written by: Jason Aaron
Art by: Rafa Sandoval
Colors by: Ulises Arreola
Letters by: Becca Carey
Cover art by: Rafa Sandoval, Ulises Arreola (cover A)
Cover price: $4.99
Release date: November 5, 2025
First Impressions
Smallville doesn’t waste a breath. Lazarus tanks and attack helicopters roll in, and the creative team wastes no time digging into the trauma and grit of its defenders: from prairie pride to the weary determination of Superman, this opening is less a soft welcome and more a slap awake. Right off the bat, the execution feels urgent, unflinching, and stubbornly Midwestern.
Previously, Superman retreated to Smallville burdened by psychic invasions from Brainiac and the manipulations of Ra’s al Ghul. His friends and family banded together in the humble diner while emotional fallout from recent losses replaced camaraderie with tension. Ra’s al Ghul advanced his siege, determined to expose Superman as an unstoppable weapon, pushing the town and its hero to the brink of collapse. With Smallville under threat, Superman found resilience amidst regret, rallying his circle and preparing for the storm to come.
Recap
Previously, Superman retreated to Smallville burdened by psychic invasions from Brainiac and the manipulations of Ra’s al Ghul. His friends and family banded together in the humble diner while emotional fallout from recent losses replaced camaraderie with tension. Ra’s al Ghul advanced his siege, determined to expose Superman as an unstoppable weapon, pushing the town and its hero to the brink of collapse. With Smallville under threat, Superman found resilience amidst regret, rallying his circle and preparing for the storm to come.
The issue kicks off six weeks after Lazarus first rolled its tanks down Smallville’s Main Street, gutting the town’s communications and taking siege warfare to a rural extreme. Residents stand armed, referencing a history of resistance dating back to the Border Wars, as Lazarus swarms the heartland with power outages, drones, and carpet-bombings. Superman is simultaneously weakened, recovering from previous encounters, and pressed into action, commanding his AI companion Sol to fortify the town and make tactical decisions to maximize their limited resources.
Lazarus escalates quickly, building a concentration camp and illegally detaining citizens, while the radio and covert broadcasts struggle to get the word out before the next wave hits. Under constant assault, the townspeople rely on tunnels dug by Superman himself, seeking refuge far below Smallville’s senior living homes and farmland, but remain at risk as internal anxieties and distrust simmer beneath the surface. Personal betrayals sting, as former friends confess they turned Superman in out of manipulated fear, forcing hard questions on loyalty, identity, and making amends.
Meanwhile, Ra’s al Ghul and Talia develop new superweapons infused with the sinister “Father Box,” seeking to neutralize Superman with enhanced mech suits and weaponized Kryptonite. The threat grows more acute, as Brainiac’s psychic sabotage disables Sol, pushing Superman closer to isolation and self-doubt while Lana, Lois, and Jimmy hold down scattered fronts. The climax centers on desperate evacuations, as an empowered Ra’s al Ghul promises a reckoning and Superman faces a town that may never truly accept him, even if he saves it.
Plot Analysis
The issue kicks off six weeks after Lazarus first rolled its tanks down Smallville’s Main Street, gutting the town’s communications and taking siege warfare to a rural extreme. Residents stand armed, referencing a history of resistance dating back to the Border Wars, as Lazarus swarms the heartland with power outages, drones, and carpet-bombings. Superman is simultaneously weakened, recovering from previous encounters, and pressed into action, commanding his AI companion Sol to fortify the town and make tactical decisions to maximize their limited resources.
Lazarus escalates quickly, building a concentration camp and illegally detaining citizens, while the radio and covert broadcasts struggle to get the word out before the next wave hits. Under constant assault, the townspeople rely on tunnels dug by Superman himself, seeking refuge far below Smallville’s senior living homes and farmland, but remain at risk as internal anxieties and distrust simmer beneath the surface. Personal betrayals sting, as former friends confess they turned Superman in out of manipulated fear, forcing hard questions on loyalty, identity, and making amends.
Meanwhile, Ra’s al Ghul and Talia develop new superweapons infused with the sinister “Father Box,” seeking to neutralize Superman with enhanced mech suits and weaponized Kryptonite. The threat grows more acute, as Brainiac’s psychic sabotage disables Sol, pushing Superman closer to isolation and self-doubt while Lana, Lois, and Jimmy hold down scattered fronts. The climax centers on desperate evacuations, as an empowered Ra’s al Ghul promises a reckoning and Superman faces a town that may never truly accept him, even if he saves it.
Writing
Jason Aaron keeps the narrative moving with breakneck urgency, trading slow build-up for immediate immersion. Dialogue snaps with trauma and resolve, grounding even the most operatic moments with colloquial grit, and never losing sight of Smallville’s unique cultural cadence. Scene transitions track the siege’s escalation with tactical precision and zero filler: every conversation and action scene serves the battle’s rapidly tightening noose.
Rafa Sandoval’s compositions pack kinetic energy, balancing widescreen destruction with panels focused on tight facial expressions and claustrophobic bunkers. Colorist Ulises Arreola swings between the sepia tones of Kansas flashbacks and violent, oversaturated reds of warfare, underscoring the emotional volatility. Visual clarity never slips, even amidst minefields, mechs, and literal tunnels: each page is instantly readable and habitually striking.
Art
Rafa Sandoval’s compositions pack kinetic energy, balancing widescreen destruction with panels focused on tight facial expressions and claustrophobic bunkers. Colorist Ulises Arreola swings between the sepia tones of Kansas flashbacks and violent, oversaturated reds of warfare, underscoring the emotional volatility. Visual clarity never slips, even amidst minefields, mechs, and literal tunnels: each page is instantly readable and habitually striking.
Superman’s rootlessness is on full display, torn between responsibility to the strangers around him and sneering reminders that he’s still seen as an outsider. Lois, Lana, and Jimmy Olsen serve as moral barometers, each wrestling with their own history and guilt. The blend of confession and forgiveness with unresolved tension makes the cast relatable and, occasionally, unpredictable, offering evolutions without easy answers.
Character Development
Superman’s rootlessness is on full display, torn between responsibility to the strangers around him and sneering reminders that he’s still seen as an outsider. Lois, Lana, and Jimmy Olsen serve as moral barometers, each wrestling with their own history and guilt. The blend of confession and forgiveness with unresolved tension makes the cast relatable and, occasionally, unpredictable, offering evolutions without easy answers.
Originality & Concept Execution
The siege-of-Smallville concept leverages Kansas culture and history into a narrative far grittier and more personal than standard superhero bombast. Aaron delivers a fresh spin on Superman’s outsider anxieties, mining the premise for social and political commentary while forcing the hero into constant moral and tactical dilemmas. The integration of sci-fi AI and corporate warfare feels both topical and inventive, even if some genre conventions remain comfortably familiar.
Absolute Superman #13 generates memorable scenes from every corner of its premise: prehistoric Kansas grit, mechs powered by the “Father Box,” and a community broadcasting under siege. The success lies in raw pacing - no wasted panels, no redundant dialogue - with effective use of setting and tension. Lois and Lana’s leadership in crisis, Superman’s tactical maneuvers, and Sandoval’s page layouts drive the emotional and visual stakes to standout heights, fulfilling the criteria for sharp, investment-worthy entertainment.
Positives
Absolute Superman #13 generates memorable scenes from every corner of its premise: prehistoric Kansas grit, mechs powered by the “Father Box,” and a community broadcasting under siege. The success lies in raw pacing - no wasted panels, no redundant dialogue - with effective use of setting and tension. Lois and Lana’s leadership in crisis, Superman’s tactical maneuvers, and Sandoval’s page layouts drive the emotional and visual stakes to standout heights, fulfilling the criteria for sharp, investment-worthy entertainment.
The issue’s relentless pace may leave some readers disoriented, with some character beats and plot twists introduced and resolved almost too quickly. Emotional revelations occasionally skirt genuine reflection in favor of getting back to the battle, and the siege’s complexity can dilute the impact of any single twist, especially for readers unfamiliar with the broader arc or supporting cast. While innovative, some AI and tech elements could feel too convenient, resolving problems with super-science rather than character ingenuity.
Negatives
The issue’s relentless pace may leave some readers disoriented, with some character beats and plot twists introduced and resolved almost too quickly. Emotional revelations occasionally skirt genuine reflection in favor of getting back to the battle, and the siege’s complexity can dilute the impact of any single twist, especially for readers unfamiliar with the broader arc or supporting cast. While innovative, some AI and tech elements could feel too convenient, resolving problems with super-science rather than character ingenuity.
About The Reviewer: Gabriel Hernandez is the Publisher & EIC of ComicalOpinions.com, a comics review site dedicated to indie, small, and mid-sized publishers.
Follow @ComicalOpinions on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterThe Scorecard
Writing Quality (Clarity & Pacing): [3/4]
Art Quality (Execution & Synergy): [4/4]
Value (Originality & Entertainment): [1/2]
Final Verdict
Absolute Superman #13 does not waste your day. Every panel is loaded with tension and grit, and the creative team wrings the Kansas siege premise for all it’s worth. While ambition sometimes outpaces nuance, the issue is a resounding win for fans seeking action, character drama, and a landscape where every choice feels costly. Whether you’re following the series week-to-week or eyeing a sharp return, this chapter earns a spot in a limited pull list.
8/10
We hope you found this article interesting. Come back for more reviews, previews, and opinions on comics, and don’t forget to follow us on social media:
Connect With Us Here: Weird Science DC Comics / Weird Science Marvel Comics
If you're interested in this creator’s works, remember to let your Local Comic Shop know to find more of their work for you. They would appreciate the call, and so would we.
Click here to find your Local Comic Shop: www.ComicShopLocator.com
As an Amazon Associate, we earn revenue from qualifying purchases to help fund this site. Links to Blu-Rays, DVDs, Books, Movies, and more contained in this article are affiliate links. Please consider purchasing if you find something interesting, and thank you for your support.
1/10
ReplyDeleteReally enjoyed reading this review of Absolute Superman #13! The way you described Superman’s emotional depth and inner struggle made me think about how heroes balance power and responsibility — kind of like how we manage everyday things like a quick FAB Balance Check to stay on track. Great insights and smooth writing throughout!
ReplyDeletehttps://fbbalancecheckae.com/
I had a great time reading this review of Absolute Superman #13! Your description of Superman's inner turmoil and emotional depth got me thinking about how heroes manage authority and accountability. gorilla tag
ReplyDelete10bet
ReplyDeleteGreat review! It really was an impressive issue. I especially liked the moment where Superman faces an almost impossible choice. It's a classic plot twist where literally everything is at stake. I recommend krikya app download you familiarize yourself with their welcome program. Usually, they offer significant bonuses on your first deposit, which can be targeted at both sports betting and casino games. This gives you a great opportunity to increase your starting capital and explore different sections of the platform with less risk. It is important to read the wagering requirements carefully, but at Krikya they are usually quite realistic. In addition to the welcome bonus, they also have ongoing promotions, cashback, and a loyalty program for regular users, which guarantees additional benefits throughout your gaming experience.
ReplyDeleteThorough and engaging review. The way you frame Smallville as a besieged, lived-in place rather than a nostalgic backdrop really highlights what makes this issue stand out. I appreciate the balance between praising the relentless pacing and acknowledging where that speed undercuts quieter emotional beats. The emphasis on community tension, not just spectacle, sells why this arc feels heavier than standard Superman fare. Strong breakdown of how the art and writing work together to maintain urgency without losing clarity.
ReplyDeleteFor many FAB customers, online balance checking is the most common method. By logging into the FAB mobile banking app or website, users can view their available balance, recent transactions, and account details. The process is quick, secure, and available 24/7, making it easy to manage finances from home.
ReplyDeletehttps://fabbalancescheck.com/
98 PKR is also used for mobile recharge bundles. These bundles usually offer a small amount of data or minutes. People who only need a short-term connection often choose this option. It is easy to pay and does not require a large budget. That is why 98 PKR bundles are common among students and workers.
ReplyDeletehttps://98pkrgame.pro/
Many people prefer fast and simple access instead of long steps and sign-ups. When they see download now, they feel confident that the process will be quick and safe. It creates trust and encourages users to move forward without hesitation.
ReplyDeletehttps://yacinetvap.com/
From Blog TataSec sounds like a space where information, ideas, and helpful content are shared. It may focus on topics related to technology, security, news, or general guides. A blog like TataSec gives users knowledge in a readable and simple form. Blogs are important because they allow people to access useful information anytime.
ReplyDeleteReally enjoyed this review—Gotham Academy truly feels like a character of its own. I like saving and revisiting discussions and visual breakdowns of comics like this, and tools such as a SlideShare Downloader can be helpful for keeping reference presentations handy.
ReplyDeleteThis is a really well-structured and thoughtful review. I like how you balance the large-scale siege action with the emotional weight Smallville carries in this issue, especially Superman’s outsider struggle. The breakdown of writing, art, and pacing makes it easy to fab check balance between hype and honest critique before deciding to pick it up. Clear, detailed, and genuinely useful for readers who want more than surface-level praise.
ReplyDeletehttps://fabbalanccheck.com/
Digital platforms thrive on authentic voices, and tatasec.org adds exactly that. With unique insights and thoughtful highlights, it sparks curiosity and keeps readers engaged. The content motivates exploration, encourages meaningful conversations, and adds real value to online communities. A refreshing presence that makes every interaction more impactful.
ReplyDeleteReviews like ABSOLUTE SUPERMAN #13 highlight how strong characters, action, and storytelling keep fans engaged. That same sense of excitement and strategy is what attracts users to interactive platforms like 777AD Game, where quick decisions and engaging gameplay play a big role. It’s interesting to see how comics and mobile games both rely on entertainment value and user engagement to build loyal audiences.
ReplyDeleteGreat review—ABSOLUTE SUPERMAN #13 really highlights how strong storytelling and character development keep long-running heroes fresh. I enjoy diving into comics like this, and during downtime between reading sessions I usually switch to interactive entertainment as well. Casual games from platforms like WE999 Game are a fun way to stay immersed in action-packed themes similar to what we see in Superman stories.
ReplyDeleteReally enjoyed reading this review of Absolute Superman #13. The breakdown of the story arc and character development makes it easier to appreciate the deeper themes in this issue. We often cover pop culture and entertainment discussions on P999 Game, and thoughtful comic reviews like this are always a great reference for fans. Thanks for sharing your perspective.
ReplyDeleteGreat review of Absolute Superman #13—the way the story balances action, strategy, and character depth really keeps readers hooked. Comics like this show how planning and smart decisions can change outcomes, which is something fans appreciate across different forms of entertainment. Platforms like 3Patti Boss also tap into this interest by offering engaging, strategy-based experiences that keep users entertained.
ReplyDeleteGreat review of Absolute Superman #13—I liked how you highlighted both the storytelling and the character development in this issue. It’s always interesting to see how different Superman arcs evolve and resonate with readers. I enjoy following and sharing comic and pop culture reviews on Lucky 101, so this was a fun and insightful read. Thanks for the breakdown!
ReplyDeleteThis review does an excellent job breaking down Absolute Superman #13 with clear structure and balanced critique, making it easy to follow the story, and just like a Lulu card balance check helps you quickly see what you have left, this piece clearly shows the issue’s action, emotion, and overall value.
ReplyDeleteMinecraft APK has been used by a huge number of players. It offers unlimited resources, allowing users to create amazing things. The app works on Android, iOS, Windows, Playstation, Xbox and Smart TV. It also offers new blocks and elements for users to create their own unique world in Minecraft indir, apk.
ReplyDeleteThis review really captures why Absolute Superman #13 hits so hard. The siege of Smallville feels grounded, personal, and relentlessly tense, and the way the writing and art work together makes every panel feel heavy with consequence. I especially liked how Superman’s isolation and the town’s mistrust are treated as emotional weapons, not just plot devices. It’s the kind of clear, structured analysis that breaks down complexity without losing impact, similar to the smart, no-fluff insights you often come across on ppc magneti com
ReplyDelete. A strong issue and an equally strong review that makes you want to revisit every key moment.
This is a powerful breakdown of what makes Absolute Superman #13 stand out. The Smallville siege feels raw and lived-in, and the review does a great job of highlighting how the emotional weight, pacing, and visuals all collide without ever feeling shallow. I really appreciated the focus on trust, guilt, and Superman’s uneasy place among the people he’s protecting. It’s the kind of well-balanced, insight-driven analysis that readers who enjoy thoughtful storytelling often gravitate toward on platforms like www.sportzefy.com
ReplyDelete. A strong review that adds real value to an already intense issue.
This is a detailed and engaging review that clearly explains the intensity, themes, and creative strengths of Absolute Superman #13 without overwhelming the reader. The structure makes it easy to follow the story progression, while the analysis of writing, art, and character development adds real value for anyone considering the issue. The balanced approach to positives and negatives builds trust and credibility, helping readers make an informed choice, much like how a clear Nol balance inquiry helps users quickly understand their status before moving forward.
ReplyDelete