Welcome to What's New in The New 52 – where you, the fans, get a sneak peek at the stuff that crosses our desks. This little feature is a way to keep you all in the loop about what's new, different and exciting in The New 52 – whether it's a character design, cover, splash page or panel.

Yesterday, we gave you your first look at ACTION COMICS #25, which marks the first issue of the series’ new creative team of writer Greg Pak and artist Aaron Kuder. Today, we continue to spotlight the new arc of this series by introducing you to a highly mysterious and strong new character debuting in ACTION COMICS #27.

A being that emerges from the subterranean world, this character controls many of the monsters that live in this underground culture in the center of the planet. And as these creatures begin to rise, Superman will quickly learn that we are not alone on Earth. But why does this creature feel the need to challenge the Man of Steel?

As it turns out, Superman is hiding another one of these subterranean creatures to protect it from falling into the hands of the government. Seemingly at odds with everyone, Superman will need to figure out how to both fight off this new creature and simultaneously prevent the government from getting even more involved than they already are.

So what’s this new creature’s name? And how will he become a pivotal character in Pak and Kuder’s first ACTION COMICS arc? Those are answers you’ll have to wait to find out until ACTION COMICS #27 arrives in stores on January 8th. But in the meantime, check out Kuder’s cover for the issue, as well as his character design in the gallery above. Notice how this character’s armor is comprised of the remains of previous creatures he’s tamed? Yeah, good luck falling asleep tonight.

Until next week!

Bob