Psi War Reading Guide

Overview:

Psi War is a 2013 storyline in DC Comics primarily featured in Superman and Action Comics. Written by Scott Lobdell and Mike Johnson, with art by Kenneth Rocafort and Eddie Barrows, the arc centers on a conflict between telepathic and psychic-powered entities in Metropolis. The story mainly centers around Superman, with Hector Hammond, H.I.V.E., and other psychic villains as key villains.

The arc explores the boundaries of mental powers and Superman’s vulnerability to psychic attacks, as well as his efforts to protect the people of Metropolis from a mental takeover. Major supporting characters include Lois Lane and Superman’s allies from S.T.A.R. Labs.

Critically, Psi War received a mixed reception. Some fans appreciated the unique threat posed by psychic enemies, which offered a break from Superman’s usual physical battles. However, others felt the storyline didn’t make full use of the deeper themes it introduced and struggled with pacing issues. Artists Rocafort and Barrows were widely praised for their striking visuals, particularly in scenes depicting mental realms and telepathic duels, even as the plot was seen as uneven. Overall, Psi War is viewed as a lesser-known but visually impressive arc in the New 52 era.

Best Way To Read:

• Superman Vol.4: Psi-War
  • Collects: Superman #18-24, Action Comics #24 and Superman Annual #2

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:

• Comic Book Herald

Feature Image from Superman #23 cover art by Kenneth Rocafort