The DC Universe is the shared universe where most of the comic stories published by DC Comics take place. The fictional characters Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman are well-known superheroes from this universe.
The basic concept of the DC Universe is that it is just like the real world, but with superheroes and supervillains existing in it. However, there are other corollary differences resulting from the justifications implied by that main conceit. Many fictional countries, such as Qurac, Vlatava, and Zandia, exist in it. Though stories are often set in the United States of America, they are as often as not set in fictional cities, such as Gotham City or Metropolis. These cities are effectively archetypes of cities, with Gotham City embodying the negative aspects of life in a large city, and Metropolis reflecting more of the positive aspects. Sentient alien species (such as Kryptonians and Thanagarians) and even functioning interstellar societies are generally known to exist, and the arrival of alien spacecraft is not uncommon.
The majority of the superhumans on Earth owe their powers to the "metagene": A genetic feature of unknown origin, which causes some people to develop superpowers when exposed to dangerous substances and forces. Others owe their powers to magic, genetic manipulation (or mutation) or bionics. A large power gap resides between most superheroes and civilians, making superheroes almost god-like. Still others owe their powers to not being human at all. There are also many superheroes and supervillains who possess no superhuman powers at all (for example Batman and Green Arrow) but make do with specialized equipment or training in special skills, such as martial arts.
Herein lies my budding collection of DC superhero action figures - manufactured by mostly Mattel (note: pathetic distribution at ridiculous prices) - sourced primarily from the DC Universe Classics series, and sub-lines like DC Superheroes, Movie Masters etc.
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