Ultraman (DC Comics)

Ultraman is the evil counterpart to Superman in the DC Comics multiverse, typically originating from a parallel Earth designated as Earth-3. Unlike Superman, who gains power from yellow sunlight, Ultraman is empowered by Kryptonite. The longer he is exposed to Kryptonite, the stronger he becomes. Conversely, yellow sunlight weakens him.

Ultraman's origin is often a twisted mirror of Superman's. Instead of being sent to Earth to escape Krypton's destruction by loving parents, Ultraman's parents on Krypton-3 (a Krypton in the antimatter universe) sent him away as part of a ruthless survival strategy, urging him to conquer and rule. In some versions, his parents even exposed him to Kryptonite radiation.

He is typically portrayed as a sadistic and tyrannical dictator, leading the Crime Syndicate of America (or Crime Syndicate, in some iterations), a team comprised of evil counterparts to the Justice League of America. His personality is characterized by immense cruelty, a thirst for power, and a complete disregard for human life. He rules through fear and intimidation.

Ultraman's powers are largely identical to Superman's, including flight, super strength, invulnerability, heat vision (although sometimes depicted as "Kryptonite vision"), and super speed. However, the source and effect of his powers are inverted, making Kryptonite his source of strength and yellow sunlight his weakness.

The character has undergone various reboots and reimaginations throughout DC Comics history, but the core concept of an evil, Kryptonite-powered Superman counterpart from a twisted parallel universe remains consistent. Ultraman serves as a dark reflection of Superman, exploring the potential consequences of absolute power and a lack of moral compass. He is a recurring antagonist in various storylines, often posing a significant threat to the mainstream DC Universe.