The resurgence of a renowned supervillain coalition marks an unexpected return in celebration of its 60th anniversary. This revival is especially noteworthy amid the unfolding events of Absolute Power, showcasing Amanda Waller’s cunning strategies. In recent months, her meticulous schemes to undermine the heroes of the DC universe have begun to unfold, facilitated by her collaboration with the formidable android Failsafe and the Brainiac Queen, along with the establishment of an army of Amazo robots capable of stealing powers. Although Batman, Superman, and their heroic allies have mounted a fierce resistance, the latest installment of Absolute Power: Task Force VII unveils Waller's new set of unexpected companions.

Levelling up the tension in the latest chapter, crafted by writer Alex Paknadel and artist Pete Woods, the storyline centers on Barry Allen's encounter with Velocity, a speedster with the ability to absorb powers. However, as the plot develops, we shift our focus to Steve Trevor, Wonder Woman’s cherished ally, who manages to breach Waller's secure prison located on Gamorra Island. There, he witnesses the entrance of enigmatic figures hailing from a different universe, realizing in disbelief that one of them is none other than Donna Troy – the malevolent Superwoman from Earth-3, flanked by other recognizable faces.

Indeed, Waller's newfound partners are none other than the Crime Syndicate, who commemorate their 60th anniversary this year. For those unfamiliar with this dark mirror of the Justice League, the inaugural roster of the team (initially called the Crime Syndicate of America) made its debut in 1964 in Justice League of America #29, crafted by Gardner Fox and Mike Sekowsky. The storyline 'Crisis on Earth-Three!' introduced a series of sinister counterparts to some of DC's most iconic heroes, featuring characters like Owlman (the shadowy version of Batman), Ultraman (analogous to Superman), Power Ring (a counterpart to Green Lantern), and Johnny Quick (the Flash's evil alter ego).

Throughout the past six decades, the team’s composition has evolved significantly, yet the current iteration still showcases Ultraman and Johnny Quick. Alongside them are the second Power Ring (a substitute for John Stewart), Black Siren (the nefarious version of Black Canary), Etrigan the Demon, and Nocturna, who is also known as Natalia Knight. Recently, the Crime Syndicate has seen limited utilization in narratives, making their return to the forefront all the more thrilling. As Absolute Power approaches its climactic conclusion, one pressing question remains: what significant role will they assume in the unfolding saga?

The fifth issue of Absolute Power: Task Force VII is available now from DC. Insights from Mark Waid reveal his motivations for making ambitious narrative choices within the Absolute Power event through our exclusive interview.