Over the decades, Aquaman has been referred to as the King of Atlantis, a strong leader who has to juggle between the depths of the ocean and the surface world.
However, a new plot in DC Comics has radically changed that identity, making Arthur Curry a much larger part of the universe.
DC Gives Aquaman A Massive Evolution After Major Event
After the occurrences of a big crossover, the hero has acquired a new name, increased abilities, and a quest that goes way beyond the oceans. The change of direction is an indication of one of the most radical status quo shifts of the character in years. It may even give a clue to how Aquaman may develop in further adaptations.
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The change takes place following the huge DC event called DC K.O. Throughout the plot, a number of heroes are given a burst of cosmic power when Superman transfers his King Omega power to them. Arthur Curry is one of the selected people, and the outcome is a major upgrade. Aquaman is officially renamed Emperor Aquaman in Emperor Aquaman #15.
The transformation is not only a change of rank but also a wider perspective of Atlantis and its power. The cosmic energy provides Arthur with access to Alpha Energy, which links him further to a mystical power called The Blue. The Blue is the life force that unites oceans and aquatic ecosystems throughout the universe. It used to be mainly related to the seas of the Earth, but now it is something much bigger.
Through this connection, Aquaman begins receiving visions of the future and realizes his responsibilities extend far beyond Atlantis. He does not just want to preserve the oceans of the earth, but now he wants to preserve all the worlds connected by The Blue. The result of that ambition is a bold statement: Atlantis will spread its influence to the stars and create a civilization that will defend oceans throughout the galaxy.
What This Could Mean For Aquaman’s Future
The time of this new direction is also particularly interesting since the live-action future of Aquaman is also in a state of transition. Jason Momoa played a rough, charismatic Arthur Curry on the big screen in several movies in the former DC Extended Universe.
Still, as DC Studios reinvents its film universe with James Gunn, it seems that the age of Momoa as Aquaman is over.
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Rather, the actor will assume a totally different role in the future DC projects, playing the infamous bounty hunter Lobo in ‘Supergirl‘. That leaves the door open to a brand-new version of Aquaman in the future DC Universe.
This comic plot may present an interesting blueprint in case the DCU needs some inspiration. A hero tied to a cosmic oceanic force and protecting alien worlds would certainly feel different from previous portrayals.
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