***Contains Spoilers***
The 1997 DC crossover event Genesis attempts to explore the concept of the “Godwave,” an energy phenomenon that gives heroes and villains their powers, tying the DC Universe together. The story begins with the Godwave’s return, disrupting Earth and threatening all existence, prompting the Justice League and others to band together to stop it. While this premise promises cosmic stakes and introspection, it ultimately fails to deliver on its potential.
What I appreciate about Genesis is its ambition. The Godwave as a concept is intriguing, especially its ties to characters’ origins. It’s quite the task to try to provide a unifying explanation for superpowers in a sprawling universe like DC’s. The story’s minor repercussions, such as subtle changes to some characters’ powers, hint at long-term potential, but these shifts felt too minor to have much lasting impact.
Unfortunately, the execution leaves much to be desired. Genesis feels light on actual storytelling, more like an excuse to cram as many characters as possible into a single narrative. The plot plods along, relying heavily on exposition, with little emotional resonance or memorable character moments. The stakes, while cosmic, feel distant, and the resolution is underwhelming. There’s also a distinct lack of engagement with the Godwave’s philosophical implications, leaving it as a hollow backdrop rather than a truly transformative event.
In conclusion, Genesis is a slog that lacks the excitement or depth I look for in a crossover. While it tries to unite the DC Universe under a single cosmic framework, it offers little payoff. I wouldn’t recommend it unless you’re a completionist or curious about obscure corners of DC lore. For me, this was a definite 1 star read—I finished it, but I didn’t like it.
Feature Image Genesis #3 cover art by Alan Davis and Mark Farmer
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