DC confirms how powerful Superman really is and reveals why his power ceiling keeps changing. Since his introduction in 1938’s Action Comics #1 all the way to Absolute Superman and the DCU, Superman has remained DC’s most powerful character. While there are many heroes and villains who are technically stronger, faster, or more durable, Superman always comes out on top.
Naturally, power levels vary in all fictional universes. Sometimes Superman struggles to fight a Warsuit-wearing Lex Luthor, and sometimes Superman easily tanks attacks from Doomsday and Superboy Prime. Sometimes, Superman moves on par with the Flash, but sometimes, he’s caught off-guard by regular humans.
However, the Man of Steel’s varying power has a deeper meaning that’s not directly tied to his Kryptonian nature.
Superman’s Power Changes According To Each Threat
Adventures of Superman: Book of El #2; Written by Phillip Kennedy Johnson; Art by Scott Godlewski
In Adventures of Superman: Book of El #2, Superman finds himself fighting a group of zealots in the far future. According to the historical files on Superman’s present-day adventures, it has been concluded that, “the abilities of Superman were limited not by physiology, but by the needs of the oppressed.” It’s also clear from Superman’s records that he wields “only the strength required, and no more”.
This is the perfect definition of Superman’s fighting prowess and a clever way to explain his constantly changing capabilities. Superman could disintegrate opponents like Lex Luthor, Metallo, and Toyman, but he chooses to fight them on their level in order to refrain from deadly force and avoid unnecessary destruction. When facing enemies like the Summer Men, Superman can stop holding back.
This strategy is more clearly reflected every time Superman fights Batman. Batman has defeated Superman in several encounters across multiple continuities. Yet, Superman has always held the power to destroy the Dark Knight, but he instinctively finds it unnecessary to use it, even if it costs him the victory.
Superman’s Altruism Is An Even Better Explanation For His Varying Power Than Sunlight Absorption
Superman Has The Power To Destroy Earth But Uses His Strength To Save It
Superman’s powers are typically explained through his ability to absorb yellow sunlight, which provides a believable scientific foundation for his physiology and symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness. However, this new explanation is even more fitting. Superman instinctively restraining his power emphasizes why it’s such a miracle that Kal-El ended up being the last son of Krypton.
Earth was given a living weapon in the form of Kal-El, yet Kal’s innate compassion transforms that potential danger into protection. He’s so pure-hearted that it’s his instinct to protect others and remain merciful to his enemies. Superman’s subconscious choice to limit his power makes him more extraordinary than the destructive force he could have become.
Adventures of Superman: Book of El #2 is available October 1, 2025, from DC Comics.