Summary

• Deathstroke's transformation from villain to antihero is showcased in Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #1, making the argument for it to transfer over into mainstream continuity.
• The comic hints at a pivotal shift in allegiance, setting Deathstroke up for a role as a force of good.
• Kristoff's portrayal of Deathstroke as an antihero keeps the character recognizable while adding layers of complexity and emotional depth.

WARNING: Contains Potential Spoilers For Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #1!

Deathstroke has seen fleeting moments where he portrayed roles beyond mere villainy, yet he has never fully embraced the antihero persona, often reverting to his villainous nature after sporadic acts of goodness. However, DC seems ready to officially transition Slade Wilson from villain to antihero in an Elseworlds storyline that also underscores the potential for this character evolution to resonate within mainstream continuity.

Deathstroke's inherent badassery and beloved yet cantankerous demeanor remain fully intact, now complemented by added layers of moral complexity and strained family dynamics.

Tom Taylor’s beloved Elseworlds series returns with its sequel in Jay Kristoff and Tirso Cons' Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #1, the inaugural issue in the continuation of DC’s high fantasy-inspired alternate universe. Instead of centering on Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, this sequel shifts its focus to Deathstroke the Terminator.

However, instead of the familiar orange and black-clad mercenary, fans will find a rugged Viking-inspired version of Slade Wilson instead. Yet, this transformation is not merely aesthetic. Kristoff skillfully imbues Slade with a moral complexity that hints at his evolution from villain to antihero.

DC Sets Slade Wilson Up To Be Their Newest Anti-Hero With Added Moral Complexity

From Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #1

Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #1 opens with Slade working as a hired sword for Jarl Vandal Savage, embroiled in the Jarl’s conflicts against other nobles, including Jarl Black Mask, whom Slade dispatches within the first few pages. Despite still being known as “Deathstroke,” a feared and battle-hardened sellsword, it becomes evident that Slade no longer takes pride in this reputation and even regrets his bloodthirsty and warmongering past. This becomes evident when Vandal tries to goad him into more battles by reminding him of his violent history, only for Slade to respond, “That man is dead…”

This presents a conflicting image of Slade: on one hand, he continues to kill for coin, yet his demeanor suggests exhaustion, burdened heavily by his past. This apparent regret, and perhaps even shame, are the first hints that Kristoff intends to portray Deathstroke as an antihero. The transformation gains further weight when Slade encounters his ex-wife, Adeline Kane, during a mission for Vandal. Upon realizing that Adeline is protecting his intended target, Slade switches sides, choosing to defend both Adeline and the target. The comic ends with this pivotal shift, leaving fans with the unmistakable impression that Deathstroke will be aligned with the forces of good in this series.

Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #1 Teases Deathstroke’s Potential To Be an Antihero in Mainstream Continuity

Cover B Ivan Tao Card Stock Variant for Deathstroke Inc. #6 (2022)

Even though fans have only glimpsed Slade beginning to align more with the role of an antihero rather than a pure villain, it's already evident that this portrayal is shaping up to be one of the best interpretations of the character. Deathstroke's inherent badassery and beloved yet cantankerous demeanor remain fully intact, now complemented by added layers of moral complexity and strained family dynamics. This evolution represents a significant triumph for the character, making a compelling case that DC should seriously consider officially transitioning Deathstroke into their roster of antiheroes, effectively retiring his days as a straightforward villain.

Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #1 is available July 17, 2024, from DC Comics!