Wonder Woman’s zombified DCeased covers were the stuff of nightmares, but her latest vampire design for Matthew Rosenberg and Otto Schmidt’s upcoming DC vs. Vampires sequel represents a whole new level of disturbing. This new design also hints that vampire Diana Prince will play a major role in the impending vampire war.
The highly acclaimed DC vs. Vampires series makes its comeback on August 14, 2024, with DC vs. Vampires: World War V #1, penned by writer Matthew Rosenberg and illustrated by artist Otto Schmidt.
This 12-issue series will expand upon the storylines introduced in DC vs. Vampires and DC vs. Vampires: All-Out War, featuring the return of Vampire Queen Barbara Gordon’s second-in-command and fellow vampire, Wonder Woman. As fans eagerly anticipate the blood-soaked return of the undead Amazon Princess, artist Steve Beach’s variant cover for the issue offers a revamped (pun intended) take on Diana’s vampire design, taking it to new and horrifying heights.
Beach’s variant cover for DC vs. Vampires: World War V #1 presents a close-up of Wonder Woman, but instead of the immortal beauty typically associated with the Amazon Princess, viewers see the undead countenance of a soulless killer. Diana’s mouth forms an unnerving smile, revealing two sets of razor-sharp fangs. Surrounding her mouth are what appear to be numerous lacerations, accompanied by fresh blood, undoubtedly from a recent kill. However, the most chilling aspect of the artwork is Wonder Woman’s blood-red, pupil-less eyes, shining brightly with bloodlust.
With two of the five variant covers unveiled for DC vs. Vampires: World War V putting Wonder Woman in the spotlight, it’s clear that Diana will have a substantial role in the upcoming series. This is further emphasized by her position as Vampire Queen Barbara Gordon’s second-in-command and her status as one of the few remaining core Justice League members who are still “alive.” While Wonder Woman is no stranger to the limelight, this storyline deviates from the norm by having Diana take on the role of a primary antagonist, adding an extra layer of excitement to the narrative.
Francesco Mattina’s variant cover for DCeased #3 portrayed Wonder Woman succumbing to Darkseid’s corrupted Anti-Life equation. This infection transformed the Amazon Warrior into a distinctly zombified figure, leaving an indelible mark on fans’ memories. Regarded as one of Diana’s most unsettling designs in her extensive comic history, the cover featured pale, rotting skin, deep lacerations, and milky eyes. Yet, Steve Beach’s variant is equally chilling, if not more so, prompting fans to decide for themselves: Is Zombified or Vampire Wonder Woman more disturbing?
DC vs. Vampires: World War V #1 will be released on August 14, 2024, from DC Comics!