DC Comics

Action Comics #970 (2016)

Comic Books Library
by Comic Books Library August 04, 2025
Action Comics #970 (2016)

Action Comics #970 (2016) – A Test of Steel and Morality 🛡️

Genre

Superhero • Action • Science Fiction • Moral Dilemma

Main Characters

  • Superman / Clark Kent 🩾‍♂️ – The iconic Man of Steel, caught between justice and personal ethics.

  • Lex Luthor 🧠 – Allegedly reformed and donning the Superman crest, yet burdened by his infamous past.

  • Godslayer (Zade) ⚔️ – A cosmic executioner claiming to protect the future by eliminating dangerous threats before they rise.

  • Lois Lane 📰 – Investigative journalist and Superman's partner, offering grounded wisdom in turbulent times.

  • Jon Kent 👩 – Superman's son, representing hope and legacy, though less central in this issue.

Writer

Dan Jurgens – A veteran in the DC universe, Jurgens brings complex moral layers to classic superhero tales, crafting a narrative where trust is as fragile as truth.

Artist

Patch Zircher (Patrick Zircher) – Known for bold line work and dynamic panels, Zircher elevates the intensity of intergalactic confrontations while maintaining human emotional depth.

Editor Details

  • Group Editor: Eddie Berganza

  • Associate Editor: Paul Kaminski
    Their editorial direction maintains continuity within the Rebirth storyline while spotlighting character-driven tension.

Publisher and Brand

📚 Publisher: DC Comics
đŸ·️ Brand: DC Rebirth
Action Comics #970 is part of the DC Rebirth initiative, a return to legacy storytelling infused with modern themes.

Release Year

📅 2016

Brief Plot Summary

“Men of Steel – Part 4” explores the fallout as Superman grapples with the revelation of Godslayer’s tragic origin and future-driven mission. Tasked with preventing catastrophic futures, Godslayer has marked Lex Luthor—now posing as a hero—as a universal threat that must be destroyed. Superman, deeply conflicted, must weigh cosmic prophecy against present deeds. Is the potential for evil justification enough for execution, or does redemption deserve a chance? The Man of Steel stands at a crossroads between action and principle. 🌍⚖️

Notable Arcs or Storylines

  • Men of Steel (Parts 1–6): A storyline that deepens the ideological rift between justice and vengeance, especially relevant in Superman’s interactions with Luthor and cosmic figures.

  • Godslayer Saga: Introduces a compelling new anti-hero with time-based ethics, challenging the black-and-white morality often present in superhero tales.

Fan Theories or Interpretations

💭 Fans speculate that Godslayer may be part of a larger multiverse clean-up crew, perhaps linked to The Monitor or other cosmic regulators. Some even theorize that Luthor's transformation into a hero is a long con—or a redemptive arc paralleling Injustice's moral gray area. Superman's inner conflict resonates with readers who see him as a symbol of hope in a cynical world.

Review Summary

⭐ Art: Zircher’s visuals are crisp and cinematic, with expressive character work and kinetic battle sequences that balance sci-fi with emotion.
📝 Story Quality: Jurgens skillfully juggles philosophical themes with classic superhero action, keeping readers engaged with both stakes and soul.
💡 Character Depth: Superman shines not just through strength but through the integrity of his decisions. Luthor remains a wildcard—both ally and potential threat.

👉 Action Comics #970 stands out for its ethical complexity, timely relevance, and thrilling storytelling. A must-read for fans who crave depth behind the punches. đŸ’„đŸ“–


Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)

Action Comics #970 (2016)
Language : English