Superman’s heat vision is one of his most iconic and unique abilities, featured in his arsenal for decades. This power has been depicted in numerous comics, movies, video games, and TV shows. However, a variant cover for an upcoming Superman comic might just offer the coolest portrayal of this ability yet.

Set to release on September 18, 2024, Joshua Williamson and Jamal Campbell’s Superman #18 promises a Man of Steel-centric tie-in to DC’s blockbuster summer event, Absolute Power. This issue’s connection to the larger DC Universe isn’t the only noteworthy aspect.

Alongside the Absolute Power madness, the issue features an incredible variant cover by artist Francesco Mattina. This cover uniquely depicts one of Superman’s most destructive powers, offering a first-person perspective of what one might see if Clark Kent killed with his heat vision.

Official Superman Art Shows the Last Thing You’d See If Kal-El Killed With His Heat Vision (And It’s Absolutely Terrifying)

The variant cover depicts the Man of Steel staring directly at the viewer, and while any glower from Superman would be intimidating, this one is especially so as Clark appears to be powering up his heat vision. The heat vision remains contained within his eyes, presented as if live wildfire is dancing within them, ready to be unleashed as concentrated beams of unimaginable heat. Hence, this unique first-person perspective of the buildup of Superman’s heat vision will undoubtedly make fans yearn for similar portrayals in future comics.

This depiction of Clark’s heat vision offers a unique perspective likely seen only by the Flash when fighting alongside Superman or aliens who are about to get blasted. Usually, the Man of Steel releases his heat vision so quickly that the human eye can’t track the buildup, making this view rare for the average person (unless the Man of Steel purposely lets it build up slow enough for the human eye). Hence, under normal circumstances, only a speedster could process the sight of Superman’s heat vision in this manner.

Mattina’s Superman #18 Variant Cover Is By Far The COOLEST Depiction of Clark Kent’s Heat Vision in Comics

From 1949’s Superman #51 until 1960, Clark’s heat vision was considered a sub-set of his x-ray vision. It wasn’t until Superman’s Girl Friend, Lois Lane #23 that his heat vision was identified as a separate power. Despite this, some version of the Man of Steel’s heat vision has been around almost as long as he has, leading to numerous visual renditions over the years. Most artistic depictions traditionally show Clark’s heat vision as two red dots in his eyes before it is unleashed. Therefore, Mattina’s art is truly astounding, allowing long-time Superman fans to witness this multi-decades-old power in a way that feels both fresh and powerful.

Superman #18 will be released on September 18, 2024, from DC Comics!