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Dark Knights of Steel: The Deluxe Edition
From Eisner Award-winning writer Tom Taylor (Nightwing, DCeased) and rising artistYasmine Putri comes an Elseworlds epic about a hero from a distant world, a darkknight crusader, and an Amazon warrior set in a world of steel and magic.Peace between the kingdoms of El, the Kingdom of Storms, and the Amazons hasalways been uneasy. But when a member of the royal family of El is assassinated toprevent a dark prophecy from coming true, the only remaining course is all-out war.But was the prophecy itself accurate, or is a far greater evil responsible for settingthe three realms against each other? Swords will clash, spells will be cast, and bloodwill be spilled as the war of the three kingdoms begins! This deluxe edition collectsDark Knights of Steel #1-12 and Dark Knights of Tales from the Three Kingdoms #1and features an introduction by Mark Waid and a new cover by Yasmine Putri.
408 pages, Hardcover
Published April 22, 2025
About the author
Tom Taylor
1,294 books1,120 followersOnce a professional juggler and fire eater, Tom Taylor is a #1 New York Times Bestselling, multi-award-winning comic book writer, playwright and screenwriter.
Well known for his work with DC Comics and Marvel, Taylor is the co-creator of NEVERLANDERS from Penguin Random House, SEVEN SECRETS from Boom Studios and the Aurealis-Award-winning graphic novel series THE DEEP. Taylor is also the Head Writer and Executive Producer of The Deep animated series, four seasons of which is broadcast in over 140 countries.
He is perhaps best known for the DC Comics series, DCEASED (Shadow Awards Winner), NIGHTWING (nominated for 5 Eisner Awards), SUPERMAN: SON OF KAL-EL (GLAAD Award Nominee), INJUSTICE: GODS AMONG US, SUICIDE SQUAD, EARTH 2 and BATMAN/SUPERMAN as well as Marvel's FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN, ALL NEW WOLVERINE, X-MEN: RED, DARK AGES and SUPERIOR IRON MAN. Taylor is also the writer of many Star Wars series, which include STAR WARS: INVASION and STAR WARS: BLOOD TIES (Stan Lee Excelsior Award winner). Taylor has written for Marvel, DC Comics, Dark Horse Comics, IDW Publishing, Boom Studios, Wildstorm, 2000 AD and Gestalt Comics.
He can be followed on twitter @TomTaylorMade.
Well known for his work with DC Comics and Marvel, Taylor is the co-creator of NEVERLANDERS from Penguin Random House, SEVEN SECRETS from Boom Studios and the Aurealis-Award-winning graphic novel series THE DEEP. Taylor is also the Head Writer and Executive Producer of The Deep animated series, four seasons of which is broadcast in over 140 countries.
He is perhaps best known for the DC Comics series, DCEASED (Shadow Awards Winner), NIGHTWING (nominated for 5 Eisner Awards), SUPERMAN: SON OF KAL-EL (GLAAD Award Nominee), INJUSTICE: GODS AMONG US, SUICIDE SQUAD, EARTH 2 and BATMAN/SUPERMAN as well as Marvel's FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN, ALL NEW WOLVERINE, X-MEN: RED, DARK AGES and SUPERIOR IRON MAN. Taylor is also the writer of many Star Wars series, which include STAR WARS: INVASION and STAR WARS: BLOOD TIES (Stan Lee Excelsior Award winner). Taylor has written for Marvel, DC Comics, Dark Horse Comics, IDW Publishing, Boom Studios, Wildstorm, 2000 AD and Gestalt Comics.
He can be followed on twitter @TomTaylorMade.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
September 23, 2026
(3.5-4.0)
The premise of “Dark Knights of Steel” seems very basic. Imagine all the DC heroes and villains transposed from contemporary times to a fantasy Earth in medieval times. Superman’s family rules one kingdom with the help of Bruce Wayne and others, while neighboring kingdoms are nervous about a prophecy about demons from the heavens conquering this world. It thus leads to yet another “Superman vs Batman”, “Everyone thinks the Kryptonians are evil conquerors", etc. story but heavy on the Tolkien and D&D influences, and a dash of A Song of Ice and Fire (swap House Targaryen with House of El, medieval Amanda Waller being a Master of Whispers, etc.). It does transition into a more traditional heroes vs villains story in a bit of a contrived manner 3/4s into the story but its fantasy DC superheroes, what do you expect?
There’s nothing too elaborate with the roles each character plays, Superman is the Good Prince/Prince Charming, Batman is literally a Dark Knight, etc. so most characters are recognizable enough if you’re familiar with them (I know next to nothing about Black Lightning and his family so that felt fresh/not sure how far out of canon it is). There are a few character amalgamations of different characters, some were kind of underwhelming but admittedly there was one I didn’t see coming.
It may seem like I’m punching down on “Dark Knights of Steel” but truthfully it’s been a while since I’ve read an alternate universe superhero comic and I honestly was very entertained. There’s more the story could have done with the concept and arcs (supposedly there’s a sequel series being worked on) but I was entertained and there were some admittedly nice interactions between these alternative versions of classic characters. Not essential but medieval-fantasy DC was a fun enough read ( I also liked the artstyle!)
The premise of “Dark Knights of Steel” seems very basic. Imagine all the DC heroes and villains transposed from contemporary times to a fantasy Earth in medieval times. Superman’s family rules one kingdom with the help of Bruce Wayne and others, while neighboring kingdoms are nervous about a prophecy about demons from the heavens conquering this world. It thus leads to yet another “Superman vs Batman”, “Everyone thinks the Kryptonians are evil conquerors", etc. story but heavy on the Tolkien and D&D influences, and a dash of A Song of Ice and Fire (swap House Targaryen with House of El, medieval Amanda Waller being a Master of Whispers, etc.). It does transition into a more traditional heroes vs villains story in a bit of a contrived manner 3/4s into the story but its fantasy DC superheroes, what do you expect?
There’s nothing too elaborate with the roles each character plays, Superman is the Good Prince/Prince Charming, Batman is literally a Dark Knight, etc. so most characters are recognizable enough if you’re familiar with them (I know next to nothing about Black Lightning and his family so that felt fresh/not sure how far out of canon it is). There are a few character amalgamations of different characters, some were kind of underwhelming but admittedly there was one I didn’t see coming.
It may seem like I’m punching down on “Dark Knights of Steel” but truthfully it’s been a while since I’ve read an alternate universe superhero comic and I honestly was very entertained. There’s more the story could have done with the concept and arcs (supposedly there’s a sequel series being worked on) but I was entertained and there were some admittedly nice interactions between these alternative versions of classic characters. Not essential but medieval-fantasy DC was a fun enough read ( I also liked the artstyle!)
May 5, 2025
Renaissance Faire Injustice!
Aren't they cute! and surely not maladorous or diseased...
OK, reducing the series thusly might be doing it a disservice but also mostly fits... Taylor still is basically the best writer doing it for DC these days so it was fun and twisty-turny but apart from the character design and dynastic plotting they didn't take much advantage of the faux-medieval setting. I mean, not a single character even said "forsooth!"
The trusty Bat-Steed was underexplored, alas.
I understand there has been a sequel to shoehorn in yet more DC character variants, I'll likely check it out one day but this curiosity has been satisfied for now.
Aren't they cute! and surely not maladorous or diseased...
OK, reducing the series thusly might be doing it a disservice but also mostly fits... Taylor still is basically the best writer doing it for DC these days so it was fun and twisty-turny but apart from the character design and dynastic plotting they didn't take much advantage of the faux-medieval setting. I mean, not a single character even said "forsooth!"
The trusty Bat-Steed was underexplored, alas.
I understand there has been a sequel to shoehorn in yet more DC character variants, I'll likely check it out one day but this curiosity has been satisfied for now.
April 30, 2025
Lol.
I had heard good things about this comic and the industry in general, and I'll just say it's not for me and if this is where the industry is at, I'm good lol I don't need to read any more comics.
I was hoping this was going to be in the same vein as Marvel 1602 (and just as good), but instead it's literally just modern heroes with a medieval skin. Art is fine, I guess, I think if you're going to commit to a time period it would be good to have a style that mimics it in some way.
My main gripe is that it doesn't feel like a medieval story. The cool thing about the Elseworlds imprint idea for me is the fact that you can remove these characters from their typical environs and place them "elsewhere." This allows you to really mess with the characters and think "Oh, how would this have looked in this time and place." But it's more than just putting them in armor, it requires research and changing certain things in order to make it fit the time and place. In other words they should be thinking, in some way, like the people in that setting. Take for example the best Elseworld story in my opinion: Red Son. Everyone in that comic acts and talks like people from the 50's. They have appropriate names, appropriate speech, and appropriate morals. This run is really just a high fantasy, high powered, modern D&D campaign.
It of course should be noted that it's not necessarily set in any specific time and place and the location isn't even obviously our planet. It's just "a" planet that is in it's medieval period. As a lover of the medieval period this is what grinds my gears with so much medieval fantasy is that authors really struggle with the mindset of characters in these settings. Gaiman nails this so well in 1602 (along with pretty much everything else.) But most people really can't get the modern out of their writing. Why bother setting it in a medieval setting if you're going to include Raven attacking the idea of kings? Monty Python has it, but that's a farce. I assume this is a serious story, after all Batman is a bastard and they make it a big deal. If most common people don't seem to think highly of kings why would they care that a bastard is on the throne. It would be like in Red Son, Superman saying "there really is no difference between Communism and Capitalism." It's ripping out an important ideological pillar and worldview of that world. There is just so much of that missing. You don't have to spend whole issues on it, but set it up in small dialogue bubbles or in panels. In Marvel 1602, there's a panel with no words that shows the X-Men praying in the chapel at their school. Amazing, why? Didn't need to talk about religion, just had to show it and remind the reader that "Oh yes, this is important in these characters' worldviews." You really don't have that here.
Does this mean every idea was bad? No, I actually really liked the Martian Manhunter/Alfred thing. I thought that was cool. While some things were kind of clunky like the Lex Luthor/Joker thing, I thought the overall swing was interesting. Take risks! That's good! Just also take risks with your writing, just because everyone claps for certain tropes today doesn't mean they have to appear unaltered and unchallenged (looking at you Harley and Ivy romance.)
I imagine the average comic book fan will like this, and I get that, it is cool to see Batman in armor or whatever, but we should really hold all writing to a higher standard, especially because this idea is really fresh and could be done really well with the right team. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case here.
Finally: Go read Marvel 1602 instead. The only good thing I can say about owning a physical copy of Dark Knights of Steel is that I can hold it up with my copy of Marvel 1602 and show how much better 1602 is.
I had heard good things about this comic and the industry in general, and I'll just say it's not for me and if this is where the industry is at, I'm good lol I don't need to read any more comics.
I was hoping this was going to be in the same vein as Marvel 1602 (and just as good), but instead it's literally just modern heroes with a medieval skin. Art is fine, I guess, I think if you're going to commit to a time period it would be good to have a style that mimics it in some way.
My main gripe is that it doesn't feel like a medieval story. The cool thing about the Elseworlds imprint idea for me is the fact that you can remove these characters from their typical environs and place them "elsewhere." This allows you to really mess with the characters and think "Oh, how would this have looked in this time and place." But it's more than just putting them in armor, it requires research and changing certain things in order to make it fit the time and place. In other words they should be thinking, in some way, like the people in that setting. Take for example the best Elseworld story in my opinion: Red Son. Everyone in that comic acts and talks like people from the 50's. They have appropriate names, appropriate speech, and appropriate morals. This run is really just a high fantasy, high powered, modern D&D campaign.
It of course should be noted that it's not necessarily set in any specific time and place and the location isn't even obviously our planet. It's just "a" planet that is in it's medieval period. As a lover of the medieval period this is what grinds my gears with so much medieval fantasy is that authors really struggle with the mindset of characters in these settings. Gaiman nails this so well in 1602 (along with pretty much everything else.) But most people really can't get the modern out of their writing. Why bother setting it in a medieval setting if you're going to include Raven attacking the idea of kings? Monty Python has it, but that's a farce. I assume this is a serious story, after all Batman is a bastard and they make it a big deal. If most common people don't seem to think highly of kings why would they care that a bastard is on the throne. It would be like in Red Son, Superman saying "there really is no difference between Communism and Capitalism." It's ripping out an important ideological pillar and worldview of that world. There is just so much of that missing. You don't have to spend whole issues on it, but set it up in small dialogue bubbles or in panels. In Marvel 1602, there's a panel with no words that shows the X-Men praying in the chapel at their school. Amazing, why? Didn't need to talk about religion, just had to show it and remind the reader that "Oh yes, this is important in these characters' worldviews." You really don't have that here.
Does this mean every idea was bad? No, I actually really liked the Martian Manhunter/Alfred thing. I thought that was cool. While some things were kind of clunky like the Lex Luthor/Joker thing, I thought the overall swing was interesting. Take risks! That's good! Just also take risks with your writing, just because everyone claps for certain tropes today doesn't mean they have to appear unaltered and unchallenged (looking at you Harley and Ivy romance.)
I imagine the average comic book fan will like this, and I get that, it is cool to see Batman in armor or whatever, but we should really hold all writing to a higher standard, especially because this idea is really fresh and could be done really well with the right team. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case here.
Finally: Go read Marvel 1602 instead. The only good thing I can say about owning a physical copy of Dark Knights of Steel is that I can hold it up with my copy of Marvel 1602 and show how much better 1602 is.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2025
Proably Dc's weakest (long) Elseworlds.
December 24, 2025
this was Fire 🔥🔥🔥🔥just think the villian needed Abit more work ,,,,,but Overall great story
June 24, 2026
4.5 DC is capable of some great shit when they really put their minds to it
August 3, 2025
This was so breathtakingly illustrated and the story feels so fresh despite calling on classic DC storylines and characters. The plot twists and turns here were so cool that I was captivated all throughout. A new favorite from Tom Taylor!
Read
November 18, 2025so goofy. so good for my reading goal. so fun to just recount to people who have never heard of it. art is gorgina. dc should be employing yasmine like they're employing mora
December 4, 2025
First DC comic- odd spot to start as it was an alternate "what if" world but very fun! Lots of twists and cool art. Plus, Batman with a sword.
April 29, 2025
This was a cracking maxi series. Elseworlds books can sometimes lean too heavily into the “look at my fun Alt-version of your favourite hero” and lose the heart and plot of a good comic. Not so here! Great art, creative and exciting writing: you’d be hard pressed to find as much fun as are in these twelves issues.
Frankly, I’ll take good stuff like this over a typical crossover any day.
Frankly, I’ll take good stuff like this over a typical crossover any day.
May 7, 2025
🛡️ Dark Knights of Steel
di Tom Taylor & Yasmine Putri
Premetto che non sono un grande conoscitore dell’universo DC, quindi mi sono avvicinato a Dark Knights of Steel con curiosità ma anche con una certa “verginità” rispetto ai personaggi. E forse proprio per questo l’ho apprezzato ancora di più. Si tratta di una maxi-serie in dodici numeri che reimmagina l’intero mondo DC in chiave fantasy/medioevale, in una sorta di "Elseworld" o What If particolarmente ispirato.
Il lavoro di Tom Taylor mi ha davvero sorpreso: i personaggi sono stati riscritti in maniera coerente con l’ambientazione, ma mantengono le caratteristiche fondamentali delle loro controparti classiche. Non si tratta solo di un cambio estetico o superficiale: le dinamiche, le alleanze, i tradimenti e i colpi di scena portano a sviluppi narrativi originali che riescono a coinvolgere anche chi, come me, non ha una conoscenza approfondita del pantheon DC.
L’ambientazione medioevale è uno dei punti forti del volume: castelli, magia, cavalieri e casate reali si fondono con i poteri e le origini dei supereroi, creando un mondo credibile e affascinante. Anche le tre storie brevi contenute in fondo al volume arricchiscono ulteriormente il contesto e danno respiro all’universo narrativo.
Sul fronte visivo, poi, c’è poco da dire: Yasmine Putri è stata per me una scoperta assoluta. Le sue tavole sono eleganti, dettagliate, dinamiche e perfette per raccontare una storia epica come questa. C’è un solo numero della serie in cui l’artista cambia e, purtroppo, il calo si nota subito: è evidente quanto lo stile di Putri fosse fondamentale per mantenere la coerenza visiva e il tono della narrazione.
In definitiva, Dark Knights of Steel è una lettura che consiglio senza esitazioni: funziona sia per i fan di lunga data della DC, che potranno divertirsi a riconoscere i personaggi in nuove vesti, sia per chi ama il fantasy e cerca una storia solida, ben disegnata e fuori dagli schemi.
Magia, spade, casati reali e superpoteri: cosa volere di più?
di Tom Taylor & Yasmine Putri
Premetto che non sono un grande conoscitore dell’universo DC, quindi mi sono avvicinato a Dark Knights of Steel con curiosità ma anche con una certa “verginità” rispetto ai personaggi. E forse proprio per questo l’ho apprezzato ancora di più. Si tratta di una maxi-serie in dodici numeri che reimmagina l’intero mondo DC in chiave fantasy/medioevale, in una sorta di "Elseworld" o What If particolarmente ispirato.
Il lavoro di Tom Taylor mi ha davvero sorpreso: i personaggi sono stati riscritti in maniera coerente con l’ambientazione, ma mantengono le caratteristiche fondamentali delle loro controparti classiche. Non si tratta solo di un cambio estetico o superficiale: le dinamiche, le alleanze, i tradimenti e i colpi di scena portano a sviluppi narrativi originali che riescono a coinvolgere anche chi, come me, non ha una conoscenza approfondita del pantheon DC.
L’ambientazione medioevale è uno dei punti forti del volume: castelli, magia, cavalieri e casate reali si fondono con i poteri e le origini dei supereroi, creando un mondo credibile e affascinante. Anche le tre storie brevi contenute in fondo al volume arricchiscono ulteriormente il contesto e danno respiro all’universo narrativo.
Sul fronte visivo, poi, c’è poco da dire: Yasmine Putri è stata per me una scoperta assoluta. Le sue tavole sono eleganti, dettagliate, dinamiche e perfette per raccontare una storia epica come questa. C’è un solo numero della serie in cui l’artista cambia e, purtroppo, il calo si nota subito: è evidente quanto lo stile di Putri fosse fondamentale per mantenere la coerenza visiva e il tono della narrazione.
In definitiva, Dark Knights of Steel è una lettura che consiglio senza esitazioni: funziona sia per i fan di lunga data della DC, che potranno divertirsi a riconoscere i personaggi in nuove vesti, sia per chi ama il fantasy e cerca una storia solida, ben disegnata e fuori dagli schemi.
Magia, spade, casati reali e superpoteri: cosa volere di più?
November 20, 2025
3.5/5
Kiedy za historię z gatunku elseworlds bierze się Taylor, to można mieć pewne oczekiwania (autor m.in. serii Injustice), bo zazwyczaj ma to POTĘŻNY ładunek rozrywkowy, bawiąc się często formą w sposób, jaki może mu pozazdrościć wielu komiksowych twórców. I tak jest po części tutaj. To takie "1602", tylko że ze stajni DC. Mamy tu więc wariację na temat średniowiecza, kiedy na Ziemię przybywa Kal-El. Tym razem jednak w towarzystwie rodziców...
Lata mijają, a rodzina Supermana obejmuje władzę nad krainą, rządząc mądrze i sprawiedliwie. Jednak ktoś zagina parol na ten świat, próbując skłócić krainę z innymi, postronnymi królestwami. Duża wojna przecież od zawsze sprzyja wielu pozakulisowym interesom. Taylor umiejętnie wprowadza coraz to nowe postacie, chociaż większość z nich zdecydowanie pozostaje w "ramach" swoich wykreowanych charakterów.
Młody Superman jako królewicz prezentuje te same wartości, co jego dorosły odpowiednik. Młody Wayne, jako podopieczny władców kieruje się honorem i dyscypliną, próbując wyeliminować jakiekolwiek zagrożenie dla korony. Towarzyszy mu oczywiście Alfred, który wygląda nieco jak zblazowany muszkieter. Są też Robini, ale ich rola jest marginalna. Jest Harley, która pełni rolę nadwornego trefnisia. Są Amazonki, dosyć standardowo rozpisane. Jest Constantine, który wieszczy tu nadejście zagrożenia z nieba. Jest i Luthor, który posiada pewien pierścień, który do niego przemawia...
Jeżeli miałbym wybierać największą wadę tego tytułu to właśnie fakt, że autor w sumie za mocno tu nie zakombinował z postaciami. Momentami miałem wrażenie pójście na łatwiznę. Choć trzeba przyznać, że historia ma dobre tempo i jest pełna mniejszych lub większych zwrotów fabularnych. Nie ma to jednak takiego ładunku emocjonalnego, jak w przywołanej innej serii autora, mimo że tu też "pada" kilka postaci...
"Mroczni Rycerze ze Stali" to taki komiksowy odpowiednik letniego blockbustera, przy którym będziesz się dobrze bawił, ale za jakiś czas zdarzy ci się zapomnieć większość z fabuły... Dla mnie był świetną zabawą, ale nie bez nie bez świadomości, że nie jest to jakoś "mocno" rozpisany świat. Przynajmniej jak na razie.
Kiedy za historię z gatunku elseworlds bierze się Taylor, to można mieć pewne oczekiwania (autor m.in. serii Injustice), bo zazwyczaj ma to POTĘŻNY ładunek rozrywkowy, bawiąc się często formą w sposób, jaki może mu pozazdrościć wielu komiksowych twórców. I tak jest po części tutaj. To takie "1602", tylko że ze stajni DC. Mamy tu więc wariację na temat średniowiecza, kiedy na Ziemię przybywa Kal-El. Tym razem jednak w towarzystwie rodziców...
Lata mijają, a rodzina Supermana obejmuje władzę nad krainą, rządząc mądrze i sprawiedliwie. Jednak ktoś zagina parol na ten świat, próbując skłócić krainę z innymi, postronnymi królestwami. Duża wojna przecież od zawsze sprzyja wielu pozakulisowym interesom. Taylor umiejętnie wprowadza coraz to nowe postacie, chociaż większość z nich zdecydowanie pozostaje w "ramach" swoich wykreowanych charakterów.
Młody Superman jako królewicz prezentuje te same wartości, co jego dorosły odpowiednik. Młody Wayne, jako podopieczny władców kieruje się honorem i dyscypliną, próbując wyeliminować jakiekolwiek zagrożenie dla korony. Towarzyszy mu oczywiście Alfred, który wygląda nieco jak zblazowany muszkieter. Są też Robini, ale ich rola jest marginalna. Jest Harley, która pełni rolę nadwornego trefnisia. Są Amazonki, dosyć standardowo rozpisane. Jest Constantine, który wieszczy tu nadejście zagrożenia z nieba. Jest i Luthor, który posiada pewien pierścień, który do niego przemawia...
Jeżeli miałbym wybierać największą wadę tego tytułu to właśnie fakt, że autor w sumie za mocno tu nie zakombinował z postaciami. Momentami miałem wrażenie pójście na łatwiznę. Choć trzeba przyznać, że historia ma dobre tempo i jest pełna mniejszych lub większych zwrotów fabularnych. Nie ma to jednak takiego ładunku emocjonalnego, jak w przywołanej innej serii autora, mimo że tu też "pada" kilka postaci...
"Mroczni Rycerze ze Stali" to taki komiksowy odpowiednik letniego blockbustera, przy którym będziesz się dobrze bawił, ale za jakiś czas zdarzy ci się zapomnieć większość z fabuły... Dla mnie był świetną zabawą, ale nie bez nie bez świadomości, że nie jest to jakoś "mocno" rozpisany świat. Przynajmniej jak na razie.
August 31, 2026
"They will look like us. They will sound like us. But they are not like us. They are demons."
If there is any writer that can take a preexisting universe and turn it on its head as an Elseworld, it's Tom Taylor. And I will always be sat for an new take on the DC Universe. Especially since this time, we're going to a medieval fantasy setting.
The premise is simple. What if instead of the DC Universe taking place in contemporary times, it took place back during the Medieval ages? Sprinkle a couple of interesting changes beyond that (like the whole El family coming to Earth, instead of just Kal); add a prophecy and you got yourself a book.
But the thing about this book is that it isn't just story about sword and sorcery. Comic books have never been. It's a story about power, prejudice, family and fear. And it gets dark. It is full of murder, betrayals, executions, assassinations, torture and war. And it is good. Not great. But good. But to get us there, Taylor does take some liberties on each character's personality and backstory from our "normal" DC Universe.
Like I said, this is a good read for anyone craving an alternate take on our heroes but definitely temper expectations. The first half, the setting for the true conflict of the book, is outstanding. But it falls a little flat once the second half of the book comes around.
Oh and Yasmine Putri's art is to die for. No notes on that.
If there is any writer that can take a preexisting universe and turn it on its head as an Elseworld, it's Tom Taylor. And I will always be sat for an new take on the DC Universe. Especially since this time, we're going to a medieval fantasy setting.
The premise is simple. What if instead of the DC Universe taking place in contemporary times, it took place back during the Medieval ages? Sprinkle a couple of interesting changes beyond that (like the whole El family coming to Earth, instead of just Kal); add a prophecy and you got yourself a book.
But the thing about this book is that it isn't just story about sword and sorcery. Comic books have never been. It's a story about power, prejudice, family and fear. And it gets dark. It is full of murder, betrayals, executions, assassinations, torture and war. And it is good. Not great. But good. But to get us there, Taylor does take some liberties on each character's personality and backstory from our "normal" DC Universe.
Like I said, this is a good read for anyone craving an alternate take on our heroes but definitely temper expectations. The first half, the setting for the true conflict of the book, is outstanding. But it falls a little flat once the second half of the book comes around.
Oh and Yasmine Putri's art is to die for. No notes on that.
December 23, 2025
Lots of fun.
This was a bit like Marvel's 1602. The characters for the most part transfer well, except that Jefferson Pierce rules the neighbouring kingdom to the Waynes/Els and I wouldn't have thought he was a major enough character for it.
There were a few places where the mythology didn't fit with comics continuity and I wasn't super happy about it. The fusing of Green Lantern/ didn't really make sense to me and it was never clear whether the power ring was really speaking to the Green Man or not. Similarly, the fusion of didn't really sit well with me.
I'm going to enjoy going back and re-reading to see if some scenes aren't what I thought they were on first read.
This was a bit like Marvel's 1602. The characters for the most part transfer well, except that Jefferson Pierce rules the neighbouring kingdom to the Waynes/Els and I wouldn't have thought he was a major enough character for it.
There were a few places where the mythology didn't fit with comics continuity and I wasn't super happy about it. The fusing of Green Lantern/ didn't really make sense to me and it was never clear whether the power ring was really speaking to the Green Man or not. Similarly, the fusion of didn't really sit well with me.
I'm going to enjoy going back and re-reading to see if some scenes aren't what I thought they were on first read.
June 21, 2025
Motherfuckin' Tom Taylor.
I wanted not to like this when I started reading it. "Another Elseworlds, a fantasy one this time. Yuck!"
Problem is, this Aussie bastard is so fuckin' good he weaves for the umpteenth time a perfect ensemble story, in which every character is organically integrated into the narrative, and they're characterized even with just a couple of balloons if they don't have much "panel time". This is funny, compelling, smooth and motherfuckin' Tom Taylor somehow makes it even look easy to write (and believe me, when something is so smooth, it's NOT easy to write).
Fuck you, Tom Taylor. Another great job.
I wanted not to like this when I started reading it. "Another Elseworlds, a fantasy one this time. Yuck!"
Problem is, this Aussie bastard is so fuckin' good he weaves for the umpteenth time a perfect ensemble story, in which every character is organically integrated into the narrative, and they're characterized even with just a couple of balloons if they don't have much "panel time". This is funny, compelling, smooth and motherfuckin' Tom Taylor somehow makes it even look easy to write (and believe me, when something is so smooth, it's NOT easy to write).
Fuck you, Tom Taylor. Another great job.
July 21, 2025
Tom Taylor is a master of taking the established order of the DC Universe and twisting, eventually putting the pieces back together in something that is familiar albeit unique and new and ultimately exciting. That goes for the Dark Knights of Steel series, set in a old style kingdom, we see the major players of the DC Universe trickled in as the story unfolds.
One of the only issues I had with this series, is that it left me wanting more. There were some characters that felt like they had more to add, or more narrative to follow in a future series set in this world. Whether we'll see that, remains to be see.
One of the only issues I had with this series, is that it left me wanting more. There were some characters that felt like they had more to add, or more narrative to follow in a future series set in this world. Whether we'll see that, remains to be see.
August 16, 2025
I loved this. Just pure comic book goodness. Tom Taylor tells a Game Of Thrones-esque story involving the DC Universe about warring kingdoms, magic, love, death, and more. The book was epic. Familiar characters but there were so many great twists that all made sense. The book was delightful. There was so much to enjoy here and you could tell Taylor had fun with it. Too many times Elseworlds books don't push the envelope far enough but that's not the case here. Added to that was the phenomenal artwork from Yasmine Putri. Her work here was stellar. Creative and gorgeous. Overall, I just can't say enough good things about how fun this was.
May 17, 2025
Dark Knights of Steel throws the DC Universe into a medieval, Game of Thrones-style world—and it totally works. Tom Taylor does an amazing job using every character in fresh, unexpected ways. You really have to let go of what you think you know about them, which makes the twists hit even harder. The world-building is sick too. Whether you’re into DC, fantasy, or just want something different, this is definitely worth checking out.
March 4, 2026
Es la primera vez que leo algo del sello DC Elseworlds y vaya que me gustó.
En DKoS la historia sucede en un mundo medieval, lleno de reinos, magia y secretos. Algunos personajes tienen orígenes distintos y, mientras tanto, una invasión se empieza a tejer entre las sombras.
Quizá en algunos volúmenes la historia pudo ser un poco más concisa, porque siento que ciertos personajes secundarios reciben más atención de la necesaria.
En DKoS la historia sucede en un mundo medieval, lleno de reinos, magia y secretos. Algunos personajes tienen orígenes distintos y, mientras tanto, una invasión se empieza a tejer entre las sombras.
Quizá en algunos volúmenes la historia pudo ser un poco más concisa, porque siento que ciertos personajes secundarios reciben más atención de la necesaria.
March 18, 2026
I LOVEEEEE this book! I can see why it’s not everyone’s favourite. I don’t think it’s the best run out there but if you are a fantasy/medieval lover this is a book for you!
I think it’s a cool, unique universe where everything is medieval but don’t take this book seriously I think it’s a book to just have fun with and have a good time!
The art is beautiful as well! 100% would reread and recommend!
I think it’s a cool, unique universe where everything is medieval but don’t take this book seriously I think it’s a book to just have fun with and have a good time!
The art is beautiful as well! 100% would reread and recommend!
July 21, 2025
Es interesante ver las historias alternativas de vez en cuando y los twist que le dieron a la historia para incluir a casi todos los personajes icónicos de DC de una manera u otra. El artes estuvo muy bien. Me quedo con dos cosas:
1 - Volvemos a afirmar que en DC el pride es todo el año
2 - Increíble como Amanda Waller es una hija de la gran ... en todas sus variantes
1 - Volvemos a afirmar que en DC el pride es todo el año
2 - Increíble como Amanda Waller es una hija de la gran ... en todas sus variantes
August 17, 2025
Basically the Game Of Thrones-esque story is just false advertising. Just your generic super fare with no reinvention. Lacks scale and interesting characters and twists that amke no sense.. Nothing to enjoy honestly and it felt voerlong. Basically a genric Elseworlds book that's too afraid to do anything new or push the envelope, let's keep this buried.
January 16, 2026
I think my ideas of what this was going to be clashed with what it wound up being. I think overall this plays it a lot safer than I was expecting it to. It doesn't take the wild swings with characters that something like Flashpoint does. Ultimately very likable with great art. I wouldn't mind seeing more of this take on the DCU.
June 18, 2026
Beautiful artwork but it is a little less medieval than I would’ve liked. Some changes to characters I also thought were odd choices and made them feel weaker for it. I think the villains could’ve been fleshed out a touch more, and less obvious in some cases. Overall it’s an okay, inoffensive read just not what I was looking for I think.
July 3, 2026
This was neat!
I like how classic DC characters are dropped into a D&D medieval world & reimagined. There’s even a few cool mashups of characters in here!
As someone who dabbles with DC shows & media, I was surprised at how many plot points I recognized. And it was neat to see the mash ups / reimagining of these plot / origins!
All in all, this was a neat read - I enjoyed it!
I like how classic DC characters are dropped into a D&D medieval world & reimagined. There’s even a few cool mashups of characters in here!
As someone who dabbles with DC shows & media, I was surprised at how many plot points I recognized. And it was neat to see the mash ups / reimagining of these plot / origins!
All in all, this was a neat read - I enjoyed it!
August 7, 2026
Not what I expected at all. The storylines felt all over the place. Characters, except Batman, were one dimensional to me. A lot of action, yet no invigorating plot. The tease for a medieval concept just wasn’t delivered here. That’s what I was expecting. But the overall conversations and relationships are much too modern and that comes off a bit campy. The art quality is something, I’ll give it that. But if you’re looking for your traditional favourite characters cast into a renaissance style fantasy story, you’re not getting it here.
July 31, 2025
Love a good elseworlds, and I especially love an elseworlds that preserves the personalities of the characters while putting them in new environments. Instead of completely changing their personalities. I’m looking at you injustice.
August 3, 2025
I could not drop this book down. Tom Taylor created a captivating medieval world with those gorgeous designs by Yasmine Putri. Full of amazing panels, great twists, and pure action, with its share of Game of Thrones drama. This is how you take advantage of an Elseworld story.
August 7, 2025
Honestly very weak, very long to essentially do the same things we see in normal stories and the characters are extremely flat. If you want a fantasy-based alternate story you'd be better reading DC Vs Vampires or something.
September 9, 2025
Fun, and I had some "haha, that's smart" moments. Do I like every change? Nah, but it's an Elseworld story. Contextually, I think everything changed worked to serve the very specific story being told, and at the end of the day that matters to me more.
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