DC’s New Fantasy Epic Is Incredible, But One Thing Is Keeping It From God-Tier

Published Jul 26, 2026, 10:43 PM EDT Jared is a writer, editor, and Communications Studies graduate who loves popular nerd culture (almost anything to do with Marvel, DC, Star Wars, or The Lord of the Rings) and the interactive storytelling medium. Jared's first console was the PS1, wherein he fell for Spider-Man, Spyro the Dragon, and Crash Bandicoot. Dark Knights of Steel II’s high-fantasy 12-issue sequel series only has one issue released so far (two, including the reprinting of Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter’s “Heir to the Sea” backup story as its own prequel one-shot), and it’s as if no time has passed since the first 12-issue series was released. Dark Knights of Steel II is already up to its neck in sumptuous Game of Thrones-esque kingdom drama that has bled over from Dark Knights of Steel. However, there’s something missing. Tom Taylor is writing Dark Knights of Steel II and imbuing it with the same magic as Dark Knights of Steel, yet it’s a massive shame that Yasmine Putri didn’t return as the artist for Dark Knights of Steel II. Yasmine Putri’s Art Is Half Of Why Dark Knights Of Steel Is Great Putri was the main artist for the original Dark Knights of Steel series, and not having her back is a big hit to the book when it was her distinct art that gave the series such a definitive high-fantasy flavor. Otto Schmidt’s art for the sequel series isn’t horrible by any means, to be clear, but it’s not the same. Putri designed these masterful new looks for iconic characters such as Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, and it would’ve been neat to see her be the artist who’d tackle the visual storytelling of Dark Knights of Steel II throughout the book. Different runs and series frequently feature new artists and guest artists, so it’s not like it was out of the realm of possibility that Putri could be replaced by another artist for this series. No official statement has been given as to why she didn’t reprise her role on the Dark Knights of Steel creative team. But, if there was an opportunity for her to be back penciling interiors, it’s disappointing that we won’t be blessed with Putri’s art in the pages of most Dark Knights of Steel II issues for the next year. Dark Knights Of Steel II Hasn’t Gotten Rid Of Putri Completely It’s an even more brutal blow, then, that Putri is still around doing main covers for the sequel, but not interiors. If nothing else, fans of Putri’s art aren’t left without her phenomenal contributions to Dark Knights of Steel wholly, whether they buy each issue singularly as they are released, or buy them collected altogether once the entire series is out. Like Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter and “Heir to the Sea,” Dark Knights of Steel II would be remiss not to capitalize on its DC Elseworld success and popularity, producing another miniseries following a brand-new character introduced to the lore, or maybe even a standalone series offered to any one of the fantastic characters featured in Dark Knights of Steel’s mythology. Either way, Putri has been such a gigantic part of the series that it would be unfortunate not to see her as the main artist for a new Dark Knights of Steel series for DC in the future. The solicitation for Dark Knights of Steel II #2 reads as follows: THE HOUSE OF EL IN DANGER! A sickness has befallen the Els, sending the Kingdom of Metropolis into disarray. But what — or who — could bring true harm to such a powerful royal family? Queen Diana and her Amazonians are intent on finding answers, but what will it cost them? Amidst the chaos, Amanda Waller takes surefooted steps into the vacuum of leadership... but she harbors an agenda far darker and more twisted than anyone yet realizes. Dark Knights of Steel II #2 is scheduled to be released on August 19, 2026. Created By Bob Kane, Bill Finger First Appearance Detective Comics Alias Bruce Wayne Alliance Justice League, Outsiders, Batman Family Race Human Franchise D.C. One of DC's most iconic heroes, Batman is the vigilante superhero persona of billionaire Bruce Wayne. Forged by tragedy with the death of his parents, Bruce dedicated his life to becoming the world's leading martial artist, detective, and tactician. Recruiting an entire family of allies and sidekicks, Bruce wages war on evil as the dark knight of his hometown, Gotham City. FIRST APP Detective Comics #27 (1939)