DC is starting the year off by revealing the four comics they will give away on Free Comic Book Day, scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026. They include a DC Next Level sampler, the Aquamanatee early reader graphic novel, the DC x Sonic the Hedgehog DC-Sega crossover, and The Nice House on the Lake horror comic.

DC Next Level is a publishing project led by Scott Snyder and Joshua Williamson, and the sampler will give the exclusive first look at three titles within the initiative. They present new adventures with Kate Kane, the Main Man, and Slade Wilson in Batwoman #1 by Greg Rucka and artist DaNi, Lobo #1 by Skottie Young and Jorge Corona, and Deathstroke: The Terminator #1 by Tony Fleecs (Stray Dogs) and artist Carmine Di Giandomenico (The Flash).

Aquamanatee by Ben Clanton introduces Marlow the Manatee, a new hero that is sleepy, snacky, and gassy. Something special happens that gives Marlow powers and the opportunity to join Aquaman on an adventure. The FCBD issue presents the first chapter of the graphic novel.

In DC x Sonic the Hedgehog Darkseid has breached dimensions in search of power and lands in Sonic’s world. To defeat Darkseid and his Apokolips allies, Sonic and his team are joined by Justice Leaguers Superman, Wonder Woman, Batman, and the Flash to defeat the supervillain. The FCBD issue opens the crossover written by Ian Flynn with art by Adam Bryce Thomas and a cover by Pablo M. Collar.

The Nice House on the Lake is written by James Tynion IV (creator of Something is Killing the Children) and artist Álvaro Martínez Bueno. Walter – an odd man known for his quirks, nicknames, and strange games – has invited several people to his home for a dream vacation. But the invitees are not close with Walter; they are childhood friends and recent acquaintances. Since they’ve all had a hard year, the guests join the party at the private house that overlooks a lake, even though something seems just a bit off. The FCBD edition presents the first issue of the series.