Superman: The Man of Steel Annual # 1 1992 NM-

Superman: The Man of Steel Annual #1, published by DC Comics on May 26, 1992, is a double-sized special issue that served as a key chapter in DC’s massive 1992 summer crossover event, "Eclipso: The Darkness Within".

Creative Team

• Writers: Louise Simonson & Roger Stern
• Penciler: Joe Quesada (celebrated early work before he became Marvel Comics' Editor-in-Chief)
• Inker: Jimmy Palmiotti

Core Plot & Synopsis: "The Gathering Darkness"

The overarching premise of the Darkness Within crossover involves the supernatural villain Eclipso, who uses mystical black diamond shards to possess anyone who harbors deep, suppressed anger. In this annual, Eclipso turns his attention to Metropolis.

• Targeting Solar Heroes: Recognizing that solar-powered heroes pose the greatest threat to his shadow-based magic, Eclipso deliberately acts to neutralize Metropolis’s protectors: Superman, Starman (Will Payton), and Rampage (Dr. Kitty Faulkner).
• The Spread of Infection: Superman crosses paths with Bruce Gordon (Eclipso's historical human host) and Mona Bennett, who are tracking the diamond shards. Before Superman can intervene effectively, Eclipso successfully possesses Starman and shifts his focus toward possessing Dr. Faulkner, triggering her transformation into a destructive, corrupted version of Rampage.
• A Subtle Deception: Unable to seamlessly control two super-powered forms simultaneously, Eclipso's hold on Rampage breaks when she is exposed to the direct light of the rising sun. While Superman successfully handles the physical threat of Rampage, Eclipso cleverly hides his consciousness deep within Starman's body, leaving the Man of Steel entirely unaware that one of his allies has been compromised.
• To Be Continued: The cliffhanger ending sets up the next consecutive chapter of the crossover event, which continues directly into Green Lantern Annual #1 (1992).

Key Historical & Collector Notes

• Early Joe Quesada Art: For comic historians, this book is notable for showcasing the dynamic, highly stylized early interior line art of Joe Quesada alongside his frequent ink collaborator Jimmy Palmiotti.
• Format: It is a 52-page prestige-style annual, heavily expanding on the typical monthly page budget to accommodate the dense crossover cast list.