In this review of Superman #34, Superboy Prime, Lois, and robot Superman are in a race to get critical data to Time Trapper. Will they make it safely?
SUPERMAN #34
Written by JOSHUA WILLIAMSON
Art by EDDY BARROWS
Main Cover: DAN MORA
Variant Covers: KYUYONG EOM, ROD REIS, ARIEL OLIVETTI, MARIO FOCCILLO, DAVE JOHNSON
Page Count: 32 pages
Release Date: 1/28/26
This review contains spoilers
Superman #34 opens in the past where we find Superman with Kelex amidst construction and testing of multiple robotic versions of Kal-El. Clark has reservations about the use of the robots, as he’s unsure about several moral dilemmas faced by using them. He decides to de-activate the robots until he’s able to consult with other experts in the field in order to make sure they can safely play the role of hero in the future.
That time is now because when Superman #33 left off, Superboy Prime, Lois, and robot Superman had to bring important Kryptonian information to Time Trapper. While on their way, they encounter a massive explosion from a fire pit, as Earth continues to transform into a new Apokolips. There are still people nearby (the Royal Flush gang), so robot Superman, having Clark’s moral programming, veers off to save them. This allows Sun Boy and the Legion of Doom time to break free from the Fortress and begin pursuit.
Prime, Lois, and robot Superman rescue the gang and get them to safety aboard a transport high above Earth. Prime leaves the group to search for the KO tournament, trusting Lois and her superpowers to get robot Superman safely to Time Trapper. She’s able to get this done, but finds a weakened, beaten Time Trapper, the result of Darkseid / Booster Gold’s attack. Just as they’re about to share the Kryptonian information, the Legion of Doom arrives.
Lois and robot Superman are outnumbered two to one and are quickly overwhelmed. They’re tortured for the Kryptonian information, but are rescued by Superboy Prime, who, on the final page, returns to save the group.
Analysis
Joshua Williamson has written a fun, fast-paced, action-packed story in this issue, though my favorite part of the story is Superboy Prime. When he left the group to search for and fight in the tournament, I was a little disappointed. I felt that, while he had good intentions, he was being too selfish, not recognizing the importance of getting the information to Time Trapper. It was good to see his return at the end to save the day. Williamson is doing well with growing the character.
It was also interesting to get more background about the robot Supermen. There’s a quick backstory on their creation at the beginning of the issue and I liked that Williamson gives us that glimpse, as it helps to understand their importance at this point in the DC KO story. While they aren’t quite as strong as Superman, it’s good to know they have all of his compassion for humanity.
Eddy Barrows and Eber Ferreira turn in some excellent artwork throughout this issue. The penciling by Barrows is detailed, leading to a more “finished” look for all the characters. I enjoy his hatching, as it adds texture and depth to the drawings. Ferreira’s inking is solid, giving us good shadows and making the characters stand out better on the page, even in action sequences. Alejandro Sanchez’s coloring breathes life into the drawings, making the action and motion come alive. The final-page reveal is absolutely gorgeous with a clearly angered Prime standing over two Legion of Doom members, cape flowing majestically across the page.
Final Thoughts
Superman #34 delivers action, backstory, and character growth. If you’ve never had interest in Superboy Prime, give this issue a try because I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Have fun, comic lovers!
