It’s the power behind every speedster in the DC Universe, but what exactly is the Speed Force? We break down its origins, powers, and why it’s more than just super-speed.
Caption: Speed Force #1 showcases the new generation of speedsters tapping into the cosmic energy field. Source: DC Comics
Key Facts
- What is it? The Speed Force is a cosmic energy field in the DC Universe that grants speedsters their powers. It’s the representation of reality in motion and the force that pushes space and time forward.
- Who created it? The concept was created by writer Mark Waid and first appeared in The Flash #91 (1994) during Wally West’s time as the Flash.
- How does it work? Speedsters can tap into the Speed Force to gain superhuman speed and a variety of other abilities. It also acts as a protective aura, shielding them from the physical strains of moving at incredible velocities.
- Is it just about speed? No. The Speed Force allows for time travel, dimensional travel, phasing through objects, and even manipulating lightning.
- Is it a place? Yes. The Speed Force is also a separate dimension or plane of existence that speedsters can enter. It’s sometimes depicted as a sort of afterlife for fallen speedsters.
What’s New & Why It Matters
The Speed Force is one of those comic book concepts that has been constantly evolving since its introduction. Originally created to explain how The Flash’s powers worked without him bursting into flames from friction, it has grown into a fundamental pillar of the DC Universe’s cosmology. It’s not just a power source; it’s a key to understanding the multiverse itself.
Recent comics have expanded on the Speed Force, introducing new, related forces like the Sage Force, Strength Force, and the mysterious Still Force. This constant evolution keeps the concept fresh and exciting, giving writers new avenues to explore and new challenges for our favorite speedsters to overcome. Understanding the Speed Force is essential for any Flash fan, as it’s at the heart of nearly every major storyline involving the Scarlet Speedster.
Creators/Cast
The Speed Force was brought to life by a number of talented creators, but its origins are most closely tied to:
- Mark Waid: The writer credited with creating and developing the Speed Force concept during his influential run on The Flash in the 1990s.
- Mike Wieringo: The artist who co-created the first visual representation of the Speed Force in The Flash #91.
Over the years, many other writers and artists have left their mark on the Speed Force, including:
- Geoff Johns: Known for his work on The Flash: Rebirth, which retconned the origin of the Speed Force, suggesting Barry Allen himself created it.
- Joshua Williamson: Expanded the mythology by introducing the other Forces (Sage, Strength, Still) in his recent Flash run.
- Grant Morrison & Mark Millar: Co-wrote the story that introduced the Black Flash, the grim reaper of the Speed Force.
Caption: The Speed Force manifests as lightning energy that connects speedsters across the DC Universe. Source: DC Comics
Release Plan
The Speed Force isn’t tied to a single release, but is a core concept in the Flash’s ongoing story. You can read about it in numerous comics, but here are some key starting points:
- The Flash #91 (1994): The first official appearance of the Speed Force.
- The Flash: Rebirth (2009): Geoff Johns’ series that redefined the Speed Force for a new era.
- The Flash (2016-Present): Joshua Williamson’s run, which introduces the other Forces and expands the mythology.
- Speed Force #1 (2023): A recent series focusing on the new generation of speedsters.
These comics are available at your local comic book shop, digitally on platforms like DC Universe Infinite, or in collected editions from major booksellers.
Bigger Context
The Speed Force is more than just a plot device to explain The Flash’s powers; it’s a fundamental part of the DC Universe’s structure. It’s been shown to be part of the “Divine Continuum,” the collection of cosmic energies that govern the multiverse. This places it alongside other powerful forces like the Green Lanterns’ Emotional Spectrum and the magical energies of the universe.
Its existence has major implications for continuity. The fact that it’s a place where speedsters can go after they die means that no speedster is ever truly gone. This has allowed for the return of characters like Barry Allen and Bart Allen after their apparent deaths. The Speed Force also plays a crucial role in major crisis events, often serving as a key to either saving or rebooting the multiverse.
Quick FAQ
Q: Can anyone use the Speed Force?
A: Not exactly. While some have been able to tap into it through technology, the Speed Force mainly seems to choose its conduits, often through a lightning strike. It also appears to have a hereditary component, as the children of speedsters often inherit a connection to it.
Q: Is the Speed Force the same as The Force in Star Wars?
A: While there are similarities in that both are energy fields that grant powers, they are very different. The Speed Force is specifically tied to motion and the fabric of the DC multiverse, and it’s also a physical place you can travel to.
Q: What is the Negative Speed Force?
A: The Negative Speed Force is an artificial creation by the Reverse-Flash, Eobard Thawne. It’s a parasitic force that eats away at the regular Speed Force and gives its user a host of dangerous abilities, including the power to kill other speedsters with a touch.
Q: What happens when a speedster dies?
A: When a speedster dies, they are typically absorbed into the Speed Force. This allows them to live on in a way, and it’s why characters like Barry Allen have been able to return from the dead.
Q: Is the Speed Force in the DC movies?
A: Yes! The Speed Force is a key element in the DC Extended Universe, particularly in The Flash movie, where it plays a central role in the film’s time-travel plot.
The Bottom Line
The Speed Force is one of the most fascinating and complex concepts in the DC Universe. It’s a testament to the creative power of comics that a simple explanation for super-speed has evolved into a rich and intricate mythology. From its humble beginnings as a retcon to its current status as a cornerstone of the DC multiverse, the Speed Force is a concept that will continue to power the adventures of The Flash for years to come.
Sources
- The Speed Force Explained | DC
- Speed Force | DC Database | Fandom
- How Does The Speed Force Work In Flash Comics? | CBR
