Dead Heat Reading Guide

Overview:

The Dead Heat storyline in The Flash comics was published in 1995-96. Written by Mark Waid with art from several artists, including Oscar Jimenez and Humberto Ramos, it spans multiple issues of The Flash series (#108-111) and Impulse (#10-11). The plot centers around Wally West (the Flash) and other speedsters from the Speed Force, including Impulse (Bart Allen), as they confront a significant new threat from Savitar, a villain obsessed with speed.

In Dead Heat, Savitar’s plan affects the entire Speed Force, threatening not only Wally’s abilities but also the powers of other speedsters. This arc explores the relationships between speedsters, the consequences of abusing speed, and the nature of the Speed Force itself.

Dead Heat was well-received by fans and critics, praised for its energetic pacing and its development of the Speed Force mythos. Mark Waid’s writing, particularly his understanding of Wally West’s character, is a high point for many. The artwork, while sometimes stylistically varied, generally complements the fast-moving action well. This storyline remains a key moment in Flash history and a standout for its emphasis on teamwork and sacrifice.

Best Way To Read:

• The Flash: Dead Heat
  • Collects: The Flash vol. 2 #108–111 & Impulse #10,11

For crossover and significant events, I typically only read the main story the first time I encounter it. Trying to read all of the tie-ins with the story tends to make them increasingly convoluted and are not crucial to the main narrative. However, I think they are important to read, as many series-shifting plotlines can happen.

For the tie-in issues, I only read them as they come up in the reading guide that I am working through. This can become problematic because the tie-in issues are not always included in collected editions of the event. So you may need to hunt for them.

Reading Order:

References:

• Wikipedia
• Comic Book Reading Orders

Feature Image from The Flash #111 cover art by Jose Marzan Jr. and Oscar Jimenez