Superman is a legendary figure, laying the foundation for the entire DC Universe since his first appearance in Action Comics #1 in 1938. Nearly 80 years have passed, and this character has evolved from the “Man of Steel” into a “Symbol of Hope,” inspiring countless generations. Over time, Superman has appeared in many different versions, sometimes with great variations.
In this article, we will look back at some of the best versions of Superman that have ever been created in the comic world, to help everyone understand why he is considered the greatest superhero of all time:
(Note that the versions mentioned here are not necessarily the strongest in terms of powers but represent the character essence of Superman)
5. Golden Age Superman
What better way to start this list than with the original version of Superman from Action Comics #1. Golden Age Superman from the comics is vastly different from today’s portrayal; for instance, he could not fly. The ability to fly became a defining trait that only emerged years later through radio shows and animations.
Strong, confident, and a champion for justice, this version of Superman is the superhero that everyone wanted to be. In many ways, he remains the “Symbol of Hope” with a bright aura and a fighting spirit against injustice, corruption, and the evils of society.
4. Injustice: Gods Among Us
First introduced in the comic series based on the game by NetherRealm, Superman in “Injustice: Gods Among Us” exists in a much darker narrative than typical versions. Here, Superman transforms into an anti-hero after the Joker tricks him into killing Lois Lane, showcasing his descent into madness and the emotional turmoil that drives him to such extremes.
3. Post-Crisis Superman
After the event “Crisis on Infinite Earths,” many heroes were completely revamped, and Superman’s storyline underwent significant changes. From iconic tales like “The Death of Superman” to “Superman For Tomorrow,” this version of Superman encapsulates what fans have come to expect and is reflected in both the blockbuster films “Man of Steel” and “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” in recent years.
This Superman era showcases him as a symbol of hope amidst societal challenges, grappling with deep philosophical questions about humanity and morality while still being rooted in his identity as a good-hearted boy from Kansas.
2. New Frontier
“New Frontier” is an extraordinarily well-crafted narrative that can evoke tenderness towards numerous characters in the DC Universe, not just a few prominent names like Superman or Batman. This version of Superman plays a crucial role, showcasing his influence in key events. From his encounters with Wonder Woman in the jungle to his inspirational speeches leading up to the battle against The Centre, this Superman is multifaceted, often questioning, “Should I do what I believe is right, or should I follow what the government demands?”
1. All-Star Superman
For many longtime fans, it’s hard to find a version of Superman that surpasses Grant Morrison’s “All-Star Superman.” This iteration is often regarded as the definitive portrayal of the character, embodying the essence of “The Symbol of Hope” that fans have come to love. It’s hard to believe, but take a moment to seek out this comic or simply watch its animated adaptation because no one wants to spoil the content for you.
Source: Moviepilot
