The Parademons were created by Jack Kirby and first appeared in the comic "New Gods" #1, published in 1971 (via DC Database). In the DC Extended Universe, Parademons are genetically modified beings created through the use of the Mother Boxes (via DC Extended Universe Wiki). Also known as Change Engines, Mother Boxes deconstruct and repurpose genetic material from dead or captured enemies. The result is a subservient soldier with only the goal of serving their master, Darkseid. They defended the planet Apokolips from Orion as he attempted to stop Darkseid from finding the Anti-Life Equation. They possess powers such as energy projection, superhuman strength, and flight. In their original creation, the Parademons were both a labor force and an elite guard (the latter comprised of the most sociopathic and cruel specimens and accompanied by hounds). "New Gods" was a pivitol comic that debuted not only Parademons but also the New Gods, Apokolips, and New Genesis. It is part of what is known as "Jack Kirby's Fourth World."
In the 2011 reboot of the DC Universe ("The New 52"), the Parademons were first seen attacking Earth and battling with Batman and Green Lantern (via DC Database) in "Justice League" (Volume 2) #1. This issue focuses on a single Parademon as the two heroes chase it through Gotham. Later in the series, they kidnap humans and take them to conversion stations to turn them into new Parademons (via DC Database). Their arrival was the catalyst for the creation of the Justice League.
