"Darkseid War" is a major crossover storyline published by DC Comics, running through the Justice League series from 2015 to 2016. Written by Geoff Johns and illustrated primarily by Jason Fabok, the story serves as the culmination of Johns' run on the title, bringing together years of narrative threads. The arc pits the Justice League against the cosmic tyrant Darkseid, but the conflict quickly escalates into a war between Darkseid and the Anti-Monitor, two of the most powerful beings in the DC Universe.
The story begins with the Justice League investigating the sudden death of Darkseid, only to find themselves caught in the crossfire of a larger conflict. The Anti-Monitor, a being who consumes universes, arrives to destroy Darkseid and his world, Apokolips. The League is forced into an uneasy alliance with Darkseid's forces, and several members undergo radical transformations after coming into contact with the immense energies released during the battle. Batman temporarily becomes the God of Knowledge on the Mobius Chair, Superman is corrupted by the energy of the Apokolips fire pits, and Lex Luthor seizes the Omega Force to become the ruler of Apokolips.
"Darkseid War" is celebrated for its epic scale, character-driven drama, and the way it redefines the power dynamics within the Justice League. It explores themes of godhood, mortality, and the corrupting influence of absolute power. The storyline had lasting repercussions on the DC Universe, most notably leading to the death of the New 52 version of Superman and setting the stage for the "DC Rebirth" initiative. It remains a fan-favorite for its high-stakes action and the shocking, permanent changes it brought to iconic characters.
