DC Finest: Fourth World: When the Old Gods Die

by Jack Kirby

Before the Justice League, before the Multiverse--there was the Fourth World. Born from the mind of Jack Kirby, this cosmic saga pits the New Gods of New Genesis against the dark forces of Apokolips in a battle that spans galaxies and destinies. Witness the rise of Mister Miracle, Orion, and Darkseid in the mythic war that reshaped the DC Universe.
DC Finest: Fourth World - When the Old Gods Die collects the foundational chapters of Jack Kirby's legendary Fourth World saga, including Mister Miracle #1-4, The Forever People #1-5, The New Gods #1-4, Superman's Pal Jimmy Olsen #133-141, and Superman's Girl Friend Lois Lane #115. These stories introduce readers to a bold new mythology of cosmic deities, super-science, and eternal conflict. From the escape artistry of Mister Miracle to the tyrannical rule of Darkseid, this volume captures the explosive imagination and revolutionary storytelling that defined Kirby's DC era.
Collects Superman's Pal, Jimmy Olsen #133-139, #141, The New Gods #1-4, Mister Miracle #1-4, The Forever People #1-5, Superman's Girl Friend Lois Lane #111, #115, and pages from #114

Genres: Comics, Graphic Novels, Dc Comics

560 pages, Paperback

First published June 23, 2026

About the author

Jack Kirby (born Jacob Kurtzberg) was one of the most influential, recognizable, and prolific artists in American comic books, and the co-creator of such enduring characters and popular culture icons as the Fantastic Four, the X-Men, the Hulk, Captain America, and hundreds of others stretching back to the earliest days of the medium. He was also a comic book writer and editor. His most common nickname is "The King."

Reviews

[Little Timmy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kirby's incredible imagination created these iconic DC characters. Always an interesting and enjoyable read when the Master of the genre goes to work. Recommended

[Darik · Rating 4 out of 5]

Big, dumb, fun spectacles of expertly-executed comic-book bombast! I can finally see why these characters have such a following, even though I would argue that no one else can really make them work. This are Kirby's creations, and his alone.

This volume is sprinkled throughout with hints of genuine social and psychological insight (Kirby seems to have a strong grasp of the psychological mechanics that foment fascism), and just as many moments of an old guy trying to seem hip (there are so many bizarre attempts at channeling hippie culture that just DO NOT work at all). But more than anything, it's telling a sweeping, ambitious story unlike anything anyone had ever tried at the time... you gotta admire the chutzpah.

I hope they release more volumes!