What role do DC Comics events (like 'Flashpoint', 'Dark Nights: Metal', 'Death Metal') play in the overall series order and are they essential to read?

DC events often serve as major turning points, altering the status quo and impacting multiple series. 'Flashpoint' (2011) led directly into the New 52. 'Dark Nights: Metal' (2017) and 'Death Metal' (2020) explored the multiverse and had lasting consequences. While not *every* event is strictly essential, they often provide context and explain changes to characters and the universe. Skipping them can lead to confusion, but reading event tie-ins isn't always necessary – focusing on the main event miniseries is usually sufficient.