DC's Announces New New 52 (well, 49 this time)

From DC:

This summer, DC Entertainment launches a bold new direction for the DC Universe (DCU) that is even more inclusive and accessible to a wider group of readers as the publisher continues to evolve comic storytelling for its next generation of fans.  Award-winning, critically acclaimed writers are headlining the June 2015 slate of DC Comics’ new periodicals and graphic novels, including Gene Luen Yang, Bryan Hitch, Garth Ennis and Ming Doyle. 

Beginning June 3rd, the DC Comics line of comic books will consist of 24 brand-new series that will begin at issue number one, as well as 25 on-going, bestselling fan favorite series that will continue without a break in the issue numbering.  The total number of periodicals in the DCU will be 49, with additional new titles debuting throughout the year.

“This heralds in a new era for the DC Universe which will allow us to publish something for everyone, be more expansive and modern in our approach and tell stories that better reflect the society around us,” said DC Entertainment Co-Publisher Dan DiDio.  “Whether you’ve been a DC fan your whole life, or whether you are new to comics – there will be a book for you beginning in June.”

Commentary: There is a lot to digest here, but at the same time, not much specific information.  I love that Batman Beyond is getting a new series...with Jurgens at the helm!  And Garth Ennis makes his triumphant return to DC!  I liked Hitman a lot, and this is supposed to have some ties to that series.

It basically looks like no DC book I currently read is ending other than Batman and Robin.  Damian will be getting his own book written and drawn by Patrick Gleason.  I will definitely miss Peter Tomasi who has made Batman and Robin into one of my favorite books every month.

One controversial statement made by DC on this was: "“In this new era of storytelling, story will trump continuity as we continue to empower creators to tell the best stories in the industry,” said DiDio.  I honestly don't think those two things have to be mutually exclusive.  You look at a work like Avengers Forver which took great efforts to bridge continuity and storytelling into one masterpiece.  But that said, I do tend to agree with DiDio on this.  I am much more interested in reading a good story than one that worries too much about what came before.  BUT, that is definitely a personal guideline.

As more information comes out about this relaunch, Critical Blast will keep you up to date.  And make sure you check out our map of the DC Multiverse!

Source: DC Entertainment