The New Gods are a fictional extraterrestrial race appearing in the eponymous comic book series published by DC Comics , as well as selected other DC titles. Created and designed by Jack Kirby , they first appeared in February 1971 in New Gods #1.
108-452: The New Gods are natives of the twin planets of New Genesis and Apokolips . New Genesis is an idyllic planet filled with unspoiled forests, mountains, and rivers and ruled by the benevolent Highfather , while Apokolips is a nightmarish, polluted dystopia filled with machinery and fire pits, ruled by the tyrannical Darkseid . The two planets were once part of the same world, a planet called Urgrund ( German for "primeval ground"), but it
216-465: A blinding flare of light, Highfather arose as a New God to battle Darkseid. The brothers, now equal, tore the world apart during their battle, leaving them to rebuild on the remains, which became Apokolips and New Genesis. It was his search for what was believed to be his daughter Kaiyo that Darkseid came to traverse and enslave various worlds and universes throughout the 52 realities spanning existence, leading up to his first invasion of Earth 2 as well as
324-465: A blinding flare of light, Highfather arose as a New God to battle Darkseid. The brothers, now equal, tore the world apart during their battle, leaving them to rebuild on the remains, which became Apokolips and New Genesis. It was his search for what was believed to be his daughter Kaiyo that Darkseid came to traverse and enslave various worlds and universes throughout the 52 realities spanning existence, leading up to his first invasion of Earth 2 as well as
432-491: A commentary and critique of the Vietnam War (as it's all about the ambiguity and moral costs of war), 'The Pact' is a creation myth in comics form, providing readers deeper context about both the struggle between Apokolips and New Genesis and the great sacrifices that have to be made to create peace in the face of overwhelming destruction." Despite the creative strength of Kirby's material, the book's sales slipped steadily after
540-566: A new group of heroes and villains. As author Marc Flores, who writes under the pen name Ronin Ro, described: The idea of the New Gods had come to Jack years earlier, when he was plotting 90 percent of the "Tales of Asgard" stories in Thor . He wanted to have two planets at war and end with Ragnarok , the battle that would kill Thor's lucrative pantheon. Instead, he tried the idea in his Inhumans stories. Now he
648-473: A new, more mainstream superhero costume for Orion, which he would wear for the next few years, but failed to lead to a relaunch. That same year, Jenette Kahn became DC's new publisher and decided to revive the "Fourth World" lineup in 1977. The New Gods series relaunched in July 1977, and with 1st Issue Special still a relatively recent publication, it picked up where the storyline of that issue left off. Although
756-425: A new, more mainstream superhero costume for Orion, which he would wear for the next few years, but failed to lead to a relaunch. That same year, Jenette Kahn became DC's new publisher and decided to revive the "Fourth World" lineup in 1977. The New Gods series relaunched in July 1977, and with 1st Issue Special still a relatively recent publication, it picked up where the storyline of that issue left off. Although
864-506: A one-off story called "On the Road to Armagetto" which was also rejected, due to the fact that it did not contain a definitive ending to the series. A 48-page new story called "Even Gods Must Die" was published in the sixth issue of the reprint series instead, which in turn served as a prologue for the upcoming The Hunger Dogs graphic novel, which DC editors greenlighted to conclude the series. Published as DC Graphic Novel #4, The Hunger Dogs
972-457: A one-off story called "On the Road to Armagetto" which was also rejected, due to the fact that it did not contain a definitive ending to the series. A 48-page new story called "Even Gods Must Die" was published in the sixth issue of the reprint series instead, which in turn served as a prologue for the upcoming The Hunger Dogs graphic novel, which DC editors greenlighted to conclude the series. Published as DC Graphic Novel #4, The Hunger Dogs
1080-1099: A rest to as well is the concept of the New Gods and the ideas surrounding them. There's a very clear conclusion to the New Gods’ storyline in Final Crisis #7. The good part about it is that readers will see that ending, and we won't have to return to it right away. Like the Multiverse, the New Gods will be out there and available to us, and we can use them when we see fit, and feel the time is right. Just because we introduced concepts doesn't mean that we have to constantly use them." In September 2011, The New 52 rebooted DC's continuity. In this new timeline, Darkseid first appears in Justice League #4. DeSaad and Steppenwolf also briefly appear in this story arc, experimenting on Superman and referring to "the search for Darkseid's daughter", explaining Darkseid's actions throughout infinite and his assault and assimilation of various worlds throughout
1188-885: A rest to as well is the concept of the New Gods and the ideas surrounding them. There's a very clear conclusion to the New Gods’ storyline in Final Crisis #7. The good part about it is that readers will see that ending, and we won't have to return to it right away. Like the Multiverse, the New Gods will be out there and available to us, and we can use them when we see fit, and feel the time is right. Just because we introduced concepts doesn't mean that we have to constantly use them." In September 2011, The New 52 rebooted DC's continuity. In this new timeline, Darkseid first appears in Justice League #4. DeSaad and Steppenwolf also briefly appear in this story arc, experimenting on Superman and referring to "the search for Darkseid's daughter", explaining Darkseid's actions throughout infinite and his assault and assimilation of various worlds throughout
SECTION 10
#17328588703521296-612: A strong start. New Gods was cancelled with issue #11 (Oct-Nov 1972), and the last issue of Forever People was also #11 (August–September 1972). The Apokolips/New Genesis war was left unresolved. Kirby's production assistant at the time, Mark Evanier , explained: "Folks forget but the New Gods saga was intended to be a limited series ... There was no intention that these characters would go on forever. After Jack's books started getting good sales figures, DC demanded that we keep them going and use guest stars like Deadman , which we were very much against doing. So Kirby had this novel he
1404-505: Is a nightmarish, polluted dystopia filled with machinery and fire pits, ruled by the tyrannical Darkseid . The two planets were once part of the same world, a planet called Urgrund ( German for "primeval ground"), but it was split apart millennia ago after the death of the Old Gods during Ragnarök . The characters associated with the New Gods are often collectively referred to as " Jack Kirby's Fourth World ". Unhappy with Marvel Comics at
1512-708: Is able to send Darkseid's resurrected son, Orion , to rip out his heart. Orion leaves the scene of the fray to die of his own wounds; and, seemingly with success, the Source entity manages to reunite with the Anti-Life entity and merge Apokolips with New Genesis to create the Fifth World, with the New Gods of the Fourth World all deceased. In DC Universe #0, a bridge between the Countdown and Final Crisis limited series, Darkseid
1620-447: Is able to send Darkseid's resurrected son, Orion , to rip out his heart. Orion leaves the scene of the fray to die of his own wounds; and, seemingly with success, the Source entity manages to reunite with the Anti-Life entity and merge Apokolips with New Genesis to create the Fifth World, with the New Gods of the Fourth World all deceased. In DC Universe #0, a bridge between the Countdown and Final Crisis limited series, Darkseid
1728-605: Is resurrected on Earth. In Final Crisis , Darkseid and his minions now exist on Earth in the guises of organized criminals, with Darkseid taking the name "Boss Dark Side". Other New Gods, such as Metron and the Black Racer , also appear reborn in newer, more elaborate Fifth World incarnations. Orion is discovered dead by detective Dan Turpin , prompting the Guardians of the Universe to launch an investigation. Batman surmises that Orion
1836-450: Is resurrected on Earth. In Final Crisis , Darkseid and his minions now exist on Earth in the guises of organized criminals, with Darkseid taking the name "Boss Dark Side". Other New Gods, such as Metron and the Black Racer , also appear reborn in newer, more elaborate Fifth World incarnations. Orion is discovered dead by detective Dan Turpin , prompting the Guardians of the Universe to launch an investigation. Batman surmises that Orion
1944-722: Is revealed that the evil gods of Apokolips have been hiding in human bodies, and some have their bodies "rebuilt" for them in the Evil Factory, formerly the Command-D bunkers in Blüdhaven . Darkseid inhabits the body of Dan Turpin, after Turpin finally succumbs to the evil god. Kalibak inhabits a new body, that of a humanoid tiger, leading a team of similar creatures in battle. Mokkari and Simyan appear, looking more or less identical to their previous forms, with no explanation given to where their bodies came from. Granny Goodness takes up residence in
2052-564: Is revealed that the evil gods of Apokolips have been hiding in human bodies, and some have their bodies "rebuilt" for them in the Evil Factory, formerly the Command-D bunkers in Blüdhaven . Darkseid inhabits the body of Dan Turpin, after Turpin finally succumbs to the evil god. Kalibak inhabits a new body, that of a humanoid tiger, leading a team of similar creatures in battle. Mokkari and Simyan appear, looking more or less identical to their previous forms, with no explanation given to where their bodies came from. Granny Goodness takes up residence in
2160-551: Is sometimes considered volume 2, as the aforementioned volume 2 was essentially a reprinting of volume 1. Originally written by Tom Peyer and Rachel Pollack , and pencilled by Luke Ross , volume 4 of New Gods ran from October 1995 until February 1997. It was taken over by John Byrne for issues #12–15 at the end of the series; this title would be renamed as Jack Kirby's Fourth World , also by Byrne, with numbering reset to issue #1, and covers provided by Walt Simonson . Walt Simonson's Orion series, which continued to host
2268-547: Is sometimes considered volume 2, as the aforementioned volume 2 was essentially a reprinting of volume 1. Originally written by Tom Peyer and Rachel Pollack , and pencilled by Luke Ross , volume 4 of New Gods ran from October 1995 until February 1997. It was taken over by John Byrne for issues #12–15 at the end of the series; this title would be renamed as Jack Kirby's Fourth World , also by Byrne, with numbering reset to issue #1, and covers provided by Walt Simonson . Walt Simonson's Orion series, which continued to host
SECTION 20
#17328588703522376-518: The Alpha Lantern Kraken, using her to attack the Guardians of the Universe, while DeSaad inhabits the body of Mary Marvel . The Female Furies themselves are not shown to still exist, but they are recreated using Anti-Life controlled heroes and villains in the forms of Wonder Woman , Batwoman , Catwoman , and Giganta . At the conclusion of the series, the essence of Darkseid is destroyed;
2484-404: The Alpha Lantern Kraken, using her to attack the Guardians of the Universe, while DeSaad inhabits the body of Mary Marvel . The Female Furies themselves are not shown to still exist, but they are recreated using Anti-Life controlled heroes and villains in the forms of Wonder Woman , Batwoman , Catwoman , and Giganta . At the conclusion of the series, the essence of Darkseid is destroyed;
2592-518: The DC Universe . New Gods #1 marks the first appearance of Orion , Highfather , and Metron , among others. The opening sequence alludes to the presence of the "Old Gods" and the "New Gods" (e.g., " There came a time when the Old Gods died... "). Simultaneously published during this time were the Forever People and Mister Miracle series, also written and drawn by Kirby. Kirby fans consider
2700-456: The Forever People and Mister Miracle series, also written and drawn by Kirby. Kirby fans consider the three-issue arc in New Gods #6-8 to be the peak of Kirby's artistic work. Jason Sacks and Keith Dallas say that issue #6, "The Glory Boat", "juxtaposes several of [Kirby's] favorite themes: the conflict between generations, the ways that pacifism is forced to confront violence, and, of course,
2808-469: The eponymous comic book series published by DC Comics , as well as selected other DC titles. Created and designed by Jack Kirby , they first appeared in February 1971 in New Gods #1. The New Gods are natives of the twin planets of New Genesis and Apokolips . New Genesis is an idyllic planet filled with unspoiled forests, mountains, and rivers and ruled by the benevolent Highfather , while Apokolips
2916-457: The "Tales of Asgard" stories in Thor . He wanted to have two planets at war and end with Ragnarok , the battle that would kill Thor's lucrative pantheon. Instead, he tried the idea in his Inhumans stories. Now he was presenting it in its original context. Though he wouldn't ever say it publicly, the New Gods books started right after the gods in Thor killed one another. The first page of Orion of
3024-552: The Bible, made for a heady brew, but the scope of his vision has endured." In 2007, comics writer Grant Morrison commented: "Kirby's dramas were staged across Jungian vistas of raw symbol and storm ... The Fourth World saga crackles with the voltage of Jack Kirby's boundless imagination let loose onto paper." In 1976, the New Gods were featured in the last issue of 1st Issue Special , written by Gerry Conway and Dennis O'Neil and pencilled by Mike Vosburg . The issue featured
3132-501: The Bible, made for a heady brew, but the scope of his vision has endured." In 2007, comics writer Grant Morrison commented: "Kirby's dramas were staged across Jungian vistas of raw symbol and storm ... The Fourth World saga crackles with the voltage of Jack Kirby's boundless imagination let loose onto paper." In 1976, the New Gods were featured in the last issue of 1st Issue Special , written by Gerry Conway and Dennis O'Neil and pencilled by Mike Vosburg . The issue featured
3240-405: The Fourth World realm. For example, if Superman were to travel to Apokolips under his own power, he would be miniature in comparison to the New Gods – Orion remarked that "Earth is but a speck in an air pocket" and that the universe of New Genesis is the "real world". Proportionally, entire planets were shown to seem no larger than golf balls. New Genesis is the home of the New Gods, who live in
3348-403: The Fourth World realm. For example, if Superman were to travel to Apokolips under his own power, he would be miniature in comparison to the New Gods – Orion remarked that "Earth is but a speck in an air pocket" and that the universe of New Genesis is the "real world". Proportionally, entire planets were shown to seem no larger than golf balls. New Genesis is the home of the New Gods, who live in
New Gods - Misplaced Pages Continue
3456-632: The Multiverse made the Source Wall less impenetrable. The Source's agent is revealed to be the New God Infinity-Man . Darkseid acquires the powers of the Anti-Life Equation and capitalizes on the deaths of the New Gods by using the human Jimmy Olsen as a "soul-catcher" for the Gods, from which he can claim all their powers and recreate the universe in his own image, but he is killed when the Source
3564-407: The Multiverse made the Source Wall less impenetrable. The Source's agent is revealed to be the New God Infinity-Man . Darkseid acquires the powers of the Anti-Life Equation and capitalizes on the deaths of the New Gods by using the human Jimmy Olsen as a "soul-catcher" for the Gods, from which he can claim all their powers and recreate the universe in his own image, but he is killed when the Source
3672-529: The New Gods , written by Jim Starlin , was a story-arc involving the mysterious deaths of the New Gods across the universe in preparation for the coming storylines in Grant Morrison 's Final Crisis , published later in 2008. As elaborated in Death of the New Gods , the mysterious Godkiller turned out to be an agent of the sentient Source itself, which sought to destroy the imperfect Fourth World—compromised by
3780-423: The New Gods , written by Jim Starlin , was a story-arc involving the mysterious deaths of the New Gods across the universe in preparation for the coming storylines in Grant Morrison 's Final Crisis , published later in 2008. As elaborated in Death of the New Gods , the mysterious Godkiller turned out to be an agent of the sentient Source itself, which sought to destroy the imperfect Fourth World—compromised by
3888-601: The New Gods showed the same scenes from Thor —a planet torn in half and armored gods holding swords and dying on a fiery battleground. Kirby began the "Fourth World" in Superman's Pal Jimmy Olsen #133 (October 1970). The New Gods first appeared in New Gods #1 (February–March 1971) and Forever People #1 (February–March 1971). Another "Fourth World" title Mister Miracle was launched in April 1971. Various New Gods, notably Darkseid, went on to interact with other denizens of
3996-532: The New Gods are vulnerable to a substance called Radion. Its source is unknown and its effects are toxic only in sustained amounts or after explosive exposure. The average New God can be slain by an application of Radion from a Radion blaster or bomb. Writer Rachel Pollack introduced the idea in "Sacrifice of the Gods" in 1996 that the New Gods were giants and that the Boom Tube would shrink them as they traveled to normal time and space or enlarge beings who traveled to
4104-480: The New Gods are vulnerable to a substance called Radion. Its source is unknown and its effects are toxic only in sustained amounts or after explosive exposure. The average New God can be slain by an application of Radion from a Radion blaster or bomb. Writer Rachel Pollack introduced the idea in "Sacrifice of the Gods" in 1996 that the New Gods were giants and that the Boom Tube would shrink them as they traveled to normal time and space or enlarge beings who traveled to
4212-405: The New Gods possess superhuman abilities of various kinds and differing degrees, including superhuman strength, stamina, reflexes, invulnerability and speed. The denizens of New Genesis and Apokolips are also immortal and endowed with a greater intelligence than Homo sapiens , despite their resemblance. Both worlds have the finest technology that the universe can offer. Despite their immortality,
4320-405: The New Gods possess superhuman abilities of various kinds and differing degrees, including superhuman strength, stamina, reflexes, invulnerability and speed. The denizens of New Genesis and Apokolips are also immortal and endowed with a greater intelligence than Homo sapiens , despite their resemblance. Both worlds have the finest technology that the universe can offer. Despite their immortality,
4428-524: The New Gods, are resurrected and reborn; and Nix Uotan implies that they will guide the recently destroyed Earth-51 , restoring it to prosperity and peace. Nix also indicates that the Super Young Team are the new Forever People of the Fifth World. In an interview with Newsarama , DC Executive Editor Dan DiDio spoke of the future of the New Gods in the DC Universe, saying, "The other thing we’ll give
New Gods - Misplaced Pages Continue
4536-411: The New Gods, are resurrected and reborn; and Nix Uotan implies that they will guide the recently destroyed Earth-51 , restoring it to prosperity and peace. Nix also indicates that the Super Young Team are the new Forever People of the Fifth World. In an interview with Newsarama , DC Executive Editor Dan DiDio spoke of the future of the New Gods in the DC Universe, saying, "The other thing we’ll give
4644-642: The New Gods. The plan would be foiled by the combined power of the New Gods, the Justice League, and the Justice Society . Essentially a reprint series, this volume packaged two issues apiece per single issue of the original 1971 series. The mini-series' final issue was originally intended to include a reprint of New Gods #11 and a new 24-page story which would conclude the series and end with both Darkseid and Orion dead. DC editors prevented Kirby from using his original intended ending. Kirby instead turned in
4752-524: The New Gods. The plan would be foiled by the combined power of the New Gods, the Justice League, and the Justice Society . Essentially a reprint series, this volume packaged two issues apiece per single issue of the original 1971 series. The mini-series' final issue was originally intended to include a reprint of New Gods #11 and a new 24-page story which would conclude the series and end with both Darkseid and Orion dead. DC editors prevented Kirby from using his original intended ending. Kirby instead turned in
4860-411: The Old Gods were destroyed by Darkseid, who became more horrific in turn as he leeched their essence from them. As Darkseid's schemes started to tear the planet apart, Highfather ran with his wounded Avia in hand towards one of the last and greatest of the Old Gods, acknowledging his time had come and passed he chose to pass on the last of his power to reward Izaya's beloved's devotion to them. Empowered in
4968-411: The Old Gods were destroyed by Darkseid, who became more horrific in turn as he leeched their essence from them. As Darkseid's schemes started to tear the planet apart, Highfather ran with his wounded Avia in hand towards one of the last and greatest of the Old Gods, acknowledging his time had come and passed he chose to pass on the last of his power to reward Izaya's beloved's devotion to them. Empowered in
5076-474: The Road to Armagetto" were revised and incorporated into the graphic novel, while DC ordered the entire plot restructured, resulting in many pages of the story being rearranged out of Kirby's intended reading order. In the end, The Hunger Dogs saw the tormented, slave population of Apokolips rise up against Darkseid in a massive slave revolt, forcing Darkseid to flee his homeworld. This ending would not last, as Darkseid would reclaim Apokolips off-panel prior to
5184-472: The Road to Armagetto" were revised and incorporated into the graphic novel, while DC ordered the entire plot restructured, resulting in many pages of the story being rearranged out of Kirby's intended reading order. In the end, The Hunger Dogs saw the tormented, slave population of Apokolips rise up against Darkseid in a massive slave revolt, forcing Darkseid to flee his homeworld. This ending would not last, as Darkseid would reclaim Apokolips off-panel prior to
5292-470: The array of worlds invading this parallel Earth. Unlike his encounters in Justice League , this one is far more successful, resulting in the death of that Earth's Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman; in the midst of this war, Power Girl and Huntress somehow traverse into the realm of Prime-Earth. It is teased that the fall of the Olympian Gods will lead to the creation of New Gods, but not stated if they mean
5400-414: The array of worlds invading this parallel Earth. Unlike his encounters in Justice League , this one is far more successful, resulting in the death of that Earth's Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman; in the midst of this war, Power Girl and Huntress somehow traverse into the realm of Prime-Earth. It is teased that the fall of the Olympian Gods will lead to the creation of New Gods, but not stated if they mean
5508-544: The backup feature "Tales of the New Gods", began in Byrne's Jack Kirby's Fourth World and served as an extension of it. Simonson wished to simply title his series "New Gods", but DC felt the name had been used too much recently. John Byrne's one-shot issue Darkseid vs. Galactus: The Hunger also appeared in October 1995. Taking place in both the yearlong series Countdown to Final Crisis (2007–2008) and its spin-off, Death of
SECTION 50
#17328588703525616-444: The backup feature "Tales of the New Gods", began in Byrne's Jack Kirby's Fourth World and served as an extension of it. Simonson wished to simply title his series "New Gods", but DC felt the name had been used too much recently. John Byrne's one-shot issue Darkseid vs. Galactus: The Hunger also appeared in October 1995. Taking place in both the yearlong series Countdown to Final Crisis (2007–2008) and its spin-off, Death of
5724-404: The continuing battle between Apokolips and New Genesis, all drawn in some of the most spectacular art of his career." Charles Hatfield says that the story's conclusion: "...is a pure example of Kirby's technological sublime, at once redemptive and seductive, healing and cataclysmic... This rhapsodic episode suggests a glorying in, but also a fearful ambivalence about, the blurring of the living and
5832-671: The disruption in its creation by the Old Gods—in favor of a more perfect "Fifth World" by reuniting the Source with the Anti-Life Equation . The Source's initial attempts to recreate the Fifth World had been hampered by the Crisis on Infinite Earths which unified the Multiverse and forged an impenetrable Source Wall around the Anti-Life Equation. By subtly manipulating characters such as Alexander Luthor, Jr. , and Booster Gold to recreate
5940-456: The disruption in its creation by the Old Gods—in favor of a more perfect "Fifth World" by reuniting the Source with the Anti-Life Equation . The Source's initial attempts to recreate the Fifth World had been hampered by the Crisis on Infinite Earths which unified the Multiverse and forged an impenetrable Source Wall around the Anti-Life Equation. By subtly manipulating characters such as Alexander Luthor, Jr. , and Booster Gold to recreate
6048-458: The dust they were recreated from and sending the Old God back to the Source. For a time, both brothers would raise their dead world back from the devastation wreaked by their previous conflicts, dubbing it Genesis with Izaya eventually remarrying, up until for undisclosed reasons Darkseid killed Highfather's new wife away from prying eyes, save those of his sibling's. Another war would commence pitting
6156-408: The dust they were recreated from and sending the Old God back to the Source. For a time, both brothers would raise their dead world back from the devastation wreaked by their previous conflicts, dubbing it Genesis with Izaya eventually remarrying, up until for undisclosed reasons Darkseid killed Highfather's new wife away from prying eyes, save those of his sibling's. Another war would commence pitting
6264-474: The events of the 1986 Legends crossover. Following the Cosmic Odyssey limited series by Jim Starlin and Mike Mignola , a new New Gods series was launched. Written by longtime Kirby assistant Mark Evanier , with co-author and penciler Paris Cullins , this would be the most lengthy New Gods run yet. Coming in at 28 issues, this volume was published from February 1989 to August 1991. This series
6372-415: The events of the 1986 Legends crossover. Following the Cosmic Odyssey limited series by Jim Starlin and Mike Mignola , a new New Gods series was launched. Written by longtime Kirby assistant Mark Evanier , with co-author and penciler Paris Cullins , this would be the most lengthy New Gods run yet. Coming in at 28 issues, this volume was published from February 1989 to August 1991. This series
6480-446: The fact his sons ended up killing and usurping the powers of all the Old Gods of Urgrund save himself, he utilized the power of the Anti-Life Equation to reanimate his fallen subjects, while using his own powers to suppress his sons' New God Abilities, all to prevent the rise of the New Gods standing before him. When Zonuz was prepping to deliver the killing blow, Uxas crept up from behind and ended him, reducing his resurrected army back to
6588-446: The fact his sons ended up killing and usurping the powers of all the Old Gods of Urgrund save himself, he utilized the power of the Anti-Life Equation to reanimate his fallen subjects, while using his own powers to suppress his sons' New God Abilities, all to prevent the rise of the New Gods standing before him. When Zonuz was prepping to deliver the killing blow, Uxas crept up from behind and ended him, reducing his resurrected army back to
SECTION 60
#17328588703526696-619: The floating city of Supertown. The surface is inhabited by the " Bugs " and the Primitives, with the former being considered a lesser class. New Genesis and Apokolips exist in a different plane of existence located near the Source , and can only be accessed via Boom Tube portals. New Genesis and Apokolips were created after the destruction of the Old Gods' home planet of Urgrund and respectively seeded with good and evil essences by Balduur and an unnamed sorceress. Through Darkseid's manipulation,
6804-511: The floating city of Supertown. The surface is inhabited by the " Bugs " and the Primitives, with the former being considered a lesser class. New Genesis and Apokolips exist in a different plane of existence located near the Source , and can only be accessed via Boom Tube portals. New Genesis and Apokolips were created after the destruction of the Old Gods' home planet of Urgrund and respectively seeded with good and evil essences by Balduur and an unnamed sorceress. Through Darkseid's manipulation,
6912-469: The former's faction against the self-titled God of Evil, which devastated the world they made together. With the losses tallied on both sides, a ceasefire was eventually called with Darkseid eventually slinking back into the darkness, while Highfather wept over the loss of their new home. Over time, a peace treaty would be forged in which Izaya would lose the compassionate part of himself to the Source to make him go through with it. Exchanging their sons like in
7020-468: The former's faction against the self-titled God of Evil, which devastated the world they made together. With the losses tallied on both sides, a ceasefire was eventually called with Darkseid eventually slinking back into the darkness, while Highfather wept over the loss of their new home. Over time, a peace treaty would be forged in which Izaya would lose the compassionate part of himself to the Source to make him go through with it. Exchanging their sons like in
7128-426: The great sacrifices that have to be made to create peace in the face of overwhelming destruction." Despite the creative strength of Kirby's material, the book's sales slipped steadily after a strong start. New Gods was cancelled with issue #11 (Oct-Nov 1972), and the last issue of Forever People was also #11 (August–September 1972). The Apokolips/New Genesis war was left unresolved. Kirby's production assistant at
7236-517: The incursion of countless other Earths along the DCnU, up until the core world of Prime Earth where he battled and lost against the Justice League when they first formed to battle his invasion. After countless eons of infighting proceeding after the fall of the Old World, Darkseid and Highfather would eventually be forced into conflict against their demented father and King of the Old Gods, Yuga Khan . Livid at
7344-418: The incursion of countless other Earths along the DCnU, up until the core world of Prime Earth where he battled and lost against the Justice League when they first formed to battle his invasion. After countless eons of infighting proceeding after the fall of the Old World, Darkseid and Highfather would eventually be forced into conflict against their demented father and King of the Old Gods, Yuga Khan . Livid at
7452-473: The last chapter. ... You can spot the issues where Jack kind of gave up trying to advance the story of Darkseid and Orion and was marking time. If those books had been intended from the start to run indefinitely, they would have been done very differently." Despite the sales failure of the book, Kirby's work has remained an inspiration for future comics creators. Comics historian Les Daniels observed in 1995: "Kirby's mix of slang and myth, science fiction and
7560-560: The malevolent Darkseid and his elite followers. The beings of New Genesis and Apokolips call themselves gods, living outside of normal time and space in a realm known as the Fourth World . Due to their proximity to the Source , a primeval energy believed to be one of the ultimate foundations of the Universal Expression of Energy, these New Gods have evolved into genetically stable higher beings of evolutionary perfection. All of
7668-443: The malevolent Darkseid and his elite followers. The beings of New Genesis and Apokolips call themselves gods, living outside of normal time and space in a realm known as the Fourth World . Due to their proximity to the Source , a primeval energy believed to be one of the ultimate foundations of the Universal Expression of Energy, these New Gods have evolved into genetically stable higher beings of evolutionary perfection. All of
7776-574: The multiverse. In subsequent issues it is revealed that Cyborg's teleportation powers are linked to the Boom Tubes, thanks to upgrades performed by his father utilizing the Mother Box found by the team in their initial adventure, and that every 1,000 times he uses this technology, a glitch in it transports him and his Justice League comrades to Apokolips. In the pages of Earth 2 #1, it is revealed that Darkseid's search has also resulted in his traversing
7884-466: The multiverse. In subsequent issues it is revealed that Cyborg's teleportation powers are linked to the Boom Tubes, thanks to upgrades performed by his father utilizing the Mother Box found by the team in their initial adventure, and that every 1,000 times he uses this technology, a glitch in it transports him and his Justice League comrades to Apokolips. In the pages of Earth 2 #1, it is revealed that Darkseid's search has also resulted in his traversing
7992-516: The previous continuity would not stop Darkseid from waging wars of conquest across reality however, so Highfather brokered another treaty where Darkseid would only attack the Earth 2 dimension while leaving the other infinite Earths untouched. Over time, the core universe where Apokolips first suffered defeat from would have more interactions with the New Gods of both New Genesis; created by the now-militant Highfather, as well as those of Apokolips; domain of
8100-467: The previous continuity would not stop Darkseid from waging wars of conquest across reality however, so Highfather brokered another treaty where Darkseid would only attack the Earth 2 dimension while leaving the other infinite Earths untouched. Over time, the core universe where Apokolips first suffered defeat from would have more interactions with the New Gods of both New Genesis; created by the now-militant Highfather, as well as those of Apokolips; domain of
8208-540: The race of New Gods populating the Fourth World or simply newer younger gods. A figure, with Orion's helmet, appears in shadow then disappears into a Boom Tube. Orion fights against, then assists Wonder Woman in her struggle with the gods of Olympus and the monstrous First Born of Zeus, eventually leading her and the Last Born of Olympus to New Genesis and its leader: Highfather. While Highfather appears much younger than his pre- Flashpoint incarnation, New Genesis appears much
8316-487: The race of New Gods populating the Fourth World or simply newer younger gods. A figure, with Orion's helmet, appears in shadow then disappears into a Boom Tube. Orion fights against, then assists Wonder Woman in her struggle with the gods of Olympus and the monstrous First Born of Zeus, eventually leading her and the Last Born of Olympus to New Genesis and its leader: Highfather. While Highfather appears much younger than his pre- Flashpoint incarnation, New Genesis appears much
8424-456: The same, consisting of a futuristic floating city above a mostly rural world covered in forests. In the Darkseid special issue, it is revealed that he and Highfather are some of the only survivors of a previous larger world, where they were brothers and peasants. Their world was also inhabited by colossal beings known as Old Gods, who spent much of their time brawling with each other, feeding off
8532-406: The same, consisting of a futuristic floating city above a mostly rural world covered in forests. In the Darkseid special issue, it is revealed that he and Highfather are some of the only survivors of a previous larger world, where they were brothers and peasants. Their world was also inhabited by colossal beings known as Old Gods, who spent much of their time brawling with each other, feeding off
8640-451: The seeming idealized perfection of New Genesis, adding complexity to his gods." Similarly, John Morrow writes, "Kirby knew that his New Genesis was no heaven. Rather, it was more like the free West during the Cold War , which was threatened by forces from within as well as without." Locations on New Genesis include: Deadman (DC Comics) Too Many Requests If you report this error to
8748-411: The seeming idealized perfection of New Genesis, adding complexity to his gods." Similarly, John Morrow writes, "Kirby knew that his New Genesis was no heaven. Rather, it was more like the free West during the Cold War , which was threatened by forces from within as well as without." Locations on New Genesis include: New Genesis The New Gods are a fictional extraterrestrial race appearing in
8856-575: The series. The New Gods met the Flash in Super-Team Family #15 (March–April 1978). Darkseid's "death" would quickly be overturned in the New Gods' next appearance in Justice League of America #183–185. The three-part storyline would tell of Darkseid's return to Apokolips and his scheme to destroy Earth-Two and teleport Apokolips into its place, so that he could conquer a new universe devoid of
8964-413: The series. The New Gods met the Flash in Super-Team Family #15 (March–April 1978). Darkseid's "death" would quickly be overturned in the New Gods' next appearance in Justice League of America #183–185. The three-part storyline would tell of Darkseid's return to Apokolips and his scheme to destroy Earth-Two and teleport Apokolips into its place, so that he could conquer a new universe devoid of
9072-413: The story's conclusion: "...is a pure example of Kirby's technological sublime, at once redemptive and seductive, healing and cataclysmic... This rhapsodic episode suggests a glorying in, but also a fearful ambivalence about, the blurring of the living and the technological." Issue #7, "The Pact", sought to explain the backstory of the New Gods. Sacks and Keith said: "While the story can also be read as
9180-399: The technological." Issue #7, "The Pact", sought to explain the backstory of the New Gods. Sacks and Keith said: "While the story can also be read as a commentary and critique of the Vietnam War (as it's all about the ambiguity and moral costs of war), 'The Pact' is a creation myth in comics form, providing readers deeper context about both the struggle between Apokolips and New Genesis and
9288-448: The three-issue arc in New Gods #6-8 to be the peak of Kirby's artistic work. Jason Sacks and Keith Dallas say that issue #6, "The Glory Boat", "juxtaposes several of [Kirby's] favorite themes: the conflict between generations, the ways that pacifism is forced to confront violence, and, of course, the continuing battle between Apokolips and New Genesis, all drawn in some of the most spectacular art of his career." Charles Hatfield says that
9396-435: The time, Mark Evanier , explained: "Folks forget but the New Gods saga was intended to be a limited series ... There was no intention that these characters would go on forever. After Jack's books started getting good sales figures, DC demanded that we keep them going and use guest stars like Deadman , which we were very much against doing. So Kirby had this novel he was forever stuck in the middle of – he could never get to
9504-402: The time, as he had created or co-created a plethora of characters without having copyright or creative custody of them, he turned to rival publisher DC Comics, with his sketches and designs for a new group of heroes and villains. As author Marc Flores, who writes under the pen name Ronin Ro, described: The idea of the New Gods had come to Jack years earlier, when he was plotting 90 percent of
9612-436: The title remained "The New Gods" in the indicia and retained its original numbering, launching with #12, the covers used the title "The Return of the New Gods". Conway wrote the series and Don Newton provided the pencils. The series introduced the character Jezebelle . It was cancelled with issue #19 (July–August 1978) prior to the " DC Implosion ", where a variety of market-related factors caused DC to cancel almost all of
9720-433: The title remained "The New Gods" in the indicia and retained its original numbering, launching with #12, the covers used the title "The Return of the New Gods". Conway wrote the series and Don Newton provided the pencils. The series introduced the character Jezebelle . It was cancelled with issue #19 (July–August 1978) prior to the " DC Implosion ", where a variety of market-related factors caused DC to cancel almost all of
9828-526: The titles launched the previous year. The final chapters of the series were published as backup features in the Adventure Comics #459–460 (1978) featured a climactic battle between Darkseid's forces and the New Gods, culminating in Darkseid's defeat and apparent "death." Conway later said that he felt the finale he provided for the New Gods saga was inadequate, though he greatly enjoyed working with Newton on
9936-417: The titles launched the previous year. The final chapters of the series were published as backup features in the Adventure Comics #459–460 (1978) featured a climactic battle between Darkseid's forces and the New Gods, culminating in Darkseid's defeat and apparent "death." Conway later said that he felt the finale he provided for the New Gods saga was inadequate, though he greatly enjoyed working with Newton on
10044-403: The two planets enter a devastating war before Highfather enacts a temporary truce. The conflict between the two planets symbolizes the struggle of good and evil on a grand mythic scale. However, despite representing good, New Genesis and its inhabitants are not entirely perfect. Biographer Charles Hatfield writes, "The saga turns out to be not so simple, for Kirby — and this is revealing – blurs
10152-401: The two planets enter a devastating war before Highfather enacts a temporary truce. The conflict between the two planets symbolizes the struggle of good and evil on a grand mythic scale. However, despite representing good, New Genesis and its inhabitants are not entirely perfect. Biographer Charles Hatfield writes, "The saga turns out to be not so simple, for Kirby — and this is revealing – blurs
10260-456: The victor. The villain Libra reappears on Earth after a long absence, making promises to the villains of Earth in the name of the deity he worships. Grant Morrison addressed what he described as "the disconnects that online commentators, sadly, seem to find more fascinating than the stories themselves", by explaining that he provided a rough draft of the first issue, and an outline of the plot, before
10368-409: The victor. The villain Libra reappears on Earth after a long absence, making promises to the villains of Earth in the name of the deity he worships. Grant Morrison addressed what he described as "the disconnects that online commentators, sadly, seem to find more fascinating than the stories themselves", by explaining that he provided a rough draft of the first issue, and an outline of the plot, before
10476-403: The worship of the 'mudgrubbers', whose lives were often lost in the battles. One day the man formerly known as Uxas, having tired of his idol's destructiveness, decided to spark a war between them which would in turn devastate their world fatally wounding his sister, Izaya's first wife, after which he opted to kill all the wounded Old Gods, steal their powers and bring about a new order. One by one,
10584-403: The worship of the 'mudgrubbers', whose lives were often lost in the battles. One day the man formerly known as Uxas, having tired of his idol's destructiveness, decided to spark a war between them which would in turn devastate their world fatally wounding his sister, Izaya's first wife, after which he opted to kill all the wounded Old Gods, steal their powers and bring about a new order. One by one,
10692-432: The writing began on Countdown and Death of the New Gods . He outlined his thinking on the issues of continuity between the stories by stating that he "started writing Final Crisis #1 in early 2006, around the same time as the 52 series was starting to come out, so Final Crisis was more a continuation of plot threads from Seven Soldiers and 52 than anything else." As the events of Final Crisis unfold, it
10800-430: The writing began on Countdown and Death of the New Gods . He outlined his thinking on the issues of continuity between the stories by stating that he "started writing Final Crisis #1 in early 2006, around the same time as the 52 series was starting to come out, so Final Crisis was more a continuation of plot threads from Seven Soldiers and 52 than anything else." As the events of Final Crisis unfold, it
10908-533: Was forever stuck in the middle of – he could never get to the last chapter. ... You can spot the issues where Jack kind of gave up trying to advance the story of Darkseid and Orion and was marking time. If those books had been intended from the start to run indefinitely, they would have been done very differently." Despite the sales failure of the book, Kirby's work has remained an inspiration for future comics creators. Comics historian Les Daniels observed in 1995: "Kirby's mix of slang and myth, science fiction and
11016-497: Was in fact killed not of injuries from battling Darkseid, but by a sort of bullet sent backwards in time. Darkseid spreads the Anti-Life Equation among the human population, creating monstrous slaves out of its victims as he ushers in the Final Crisis of Mankind . Shilo Norman begins recruiting an army, warning of a war in heaven having occurred where evil won. Darkseid similarly claims to have ultimately come out of this war in heaven
11124-443: Was in fact killed not of injuries from battling Darkseid, but by a sort of bullet sent backwards in time. Darkseid spreads the Anti-Life Equation among the human population, creating monstrous slaves out of its victims as he ushers in the Final Crisis of Mankind . Shilo Norman begins recruiting an army, warning of a war in heaven having occurred where evil won. Darkseid similarly claims to have ultimately come out of this war in heaven
11232-420: Was intended by Kirby and DC to serve as the end to the entire Fourth World saga. The project was mired in controversy over Kirby's insistence that the series should end with the deaths of the New Gods, which clashed with DC's demands that the New Gods could not be killed off. As a result, production of the graphic novel suffered many delays and revisions. Pages and storyline elements from the never published "On
11340-418: Was intended by Kirby and DC to serve as the end to the entire Fourth World saga. The project was mired in controversy over Kirby's insistence that the series should end with the deaths of the New Gods, which clashed with DC's demands that the New Gods could not be killed off. As a result, production of the graphic novel suffered many delays and revisions. Pages and storyline elements from the never published "On
11448-408: Was launched in April 1971. Various New Gods, notably Darkseid, went on to interact with other denizens of the DC Universe . New Gods #1 marks the first appearance of Orion , Highfather , and Metron , among others. The opening sequence alludes to the presence of the "Old Gods" and the "New Gods" (e.g., " There came a time when the Old Gods died... "). Simultaneously published during this time were
11556-578: Was presenting it in its original context. Though he wouldn't ever say it publicly, the New Gods books started right after the gods in Thor killed one another. The first page of Orion of the New Gods showed the same scenes from Thor —a planet torn in half and armored gods holding swords and dying on a fiery battleground. Kirby began the "Fourth World" in Superman's Pal Jimmy Olsen #133 (October 1970). The New Gods first appeared in New Gods #1 (February–March 1971) and Forever People #1 (February–March 1971). Another "Fourth World" title Mister Miracle
11664-420: Was split apart millennia ago after the death of the Old Gods during Ragnarök . The characters associated with the New Gods are often collectively referred to as " Jack Kirby's Fourth World ". Unhappy with Marvel Comics at the time, as he had created or co-created a plethora of characters without having copyright or creative custody of them, he turned to rival publisher DC Comics, with his sketches and designs for
#351648