Absolute Batman Introduced: What's Next for Absolute Joker?

Absolute Batman stands out as one of DC's most significant comic book launches in recent years. The first issue soared to become the best-selling comic of 2024, and the series has consistently topped sales charts ever since. This success is a testament to how well readers have embraced this bold and often surprising reinvention of the Dark Knight.

Following the completion of their first story arc, "The Zoo," creators Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta sat down with IGN to delve into the innovative ways they've reimagined Batman's traditional mythos. They shared insights on crafting this strikingly muscular version of Batman, the impact of having a living mother on Bruce Wayne's life, and what fans can anticipate with the emergence of Absolute Joker.

Warning: full spoilers for Absolute Batman #6 ahead!

Absolute Batman #6 Preview Gallery

11 ImagesDesigning Absolute Batman

The Batman of the Absolute Universe commands attention with his imposing physique, shoulder spikes, and a reimagined Batsuit, earning a spot on our list of the 10 greatest Batman costumes of all time. Snyder and Dragotta shared how they envisioned this larger-than-life Dark Knight, who, unlike his traditional counterpart, lacks the usual wealth and resources.

“Scott's vision was to make Batman larger than life,” Dragotta explained to IGN. “He pushed for the biggest Batman we've ever seen. Initially, I drew him significantly larger, but Scott urged me to go even bigger, almost to Hulk-like proportions.”

Dragotta elaborated, “The design was driven by the need to reflect his character's themes. Every element of his suit, down to the emblem, is a weapon. It's not just a utility belt anymore; the entire suit is a utility, and this concept will continue to evolve as the series progresses.”

For Snyder, Batman's size was crucial. He noted that while the classic Batman's superpower is often his immense wealth, the Absolute Batman compensates for his lack of resources with sheer physical presence.

“Traditional Batman intimidates with his wealth as much as his skills,” Snyder said. “He arrives in high-tech suits and vehicles that signal his superiority. But in this universe, Batman's size, physicality, and the utility of his suit become his tools of intimidation, making him a force to be reckoned with against villains who believe they're untouchable.”

The influence of Frank Miller's The Dark Knight Returns is evident in Absolute Batman, particularly in a splash page from issue #6 that pays homage to Miller's iconic (and surprisingly divisive) Dark Knight Returns cover. Dragotta acknowledged this influence, citing Miller and David Mazzucchelli's storytelling as a significant inspiration.

Giving Batman a Family

Absolute Batman redefines the Dark Knight's mythology beyond just his financial status. A major shift is the revelation that Bruce Wayne's mother, Martha, is alive, transforming Batman from a solitary figure into someone with much more to lose.

“Introducing Martha was a significant decision,” Snyder reflected. “We chose her over Thomas because Bruce's relationship with his father has been explored extensively. Martha adds a new dimension, serving as the moral compass of the series while also making Bruce more vulnerable.”

Another key change is Bruce's childhood friendships with future villains like Waylon Jones, Oswald Cobblepot, Harvey Dent, Edward Nygma, and Selina Kyle. These relationships, Snyder hinted, will be explored further, showing how they shaped Bruce's journey to becoming Batman.

Absolute Batman vs. Absolute Black Mask

In "The Zoo," Absolute Batman begins to make his mark as new supervillains emerge. The focus is on Roman Sionis, aka Black Mask, leader of the nihilistic Party Animals. Although not a typical choice for a Batman origin story, Snyder found Black Mask's themes of nihilism and chaos fitting for this arc.

“Black Mask's aesthetic and themes of nihilism resonated with us,” Snyder said. “We wanted to mold him into something fresh yet true to his core as a crime boss. Nick's art transformed him into an entirely new character.”

The confrontation in issue #6 between Batman and Black Mask reaches its peak as Bruce storms Sionis' yacht, delivering a brutal beating. While Batman refrains from killing, the fight underscores his underdog status in this universe, proving that underestimating him is a grave mistake.

The Threat of Absolute Joker

Where Batman is, the Joker often follows. Absolute Joker, teased at the series' start, embodies everything Batman traditionally is but with a twist: extreme wealth, global training, and a serious demeanor, never laughing.

“In this inverted universe, Batman disrupts the system, while Joker embodies it,” Snyder explained. “Their dynamic is central to the series, with Joker already a terrifying figure before encountering Batman, setting the stage for their evolving relationship.”

Dragotta added, “Joker's already been there, and his power is hinted at through JK Industries and the global Arks. His storyline is coming, and we want readers to stay intrigued.”

What to Expect From Absolute Mr. Freeze and Absolute Bane

Issues #7 and #8 introduce a new arc with Mr. Freeze, drawn by Marcos Martin. Snyder praised Martin's ability to capture the emotional heart of the story, presenting a twisted version of Mr. Freeze that mirrors Bruce's struggles.

“Mr. Freeze's dark path contrasts with Bruce's, who thought he wouldn't survive the first arc,” Snyder noted. “In this universe, we can go darker and more twisted with the villains.”

Bane, another formidable foe, looms on the horizon. Snyder teased that Bane will be significantly large, designed to make Batman's silhouette appear smaller in comparison.

Absolute Batman launched alongside other Absolute titles in 2024, with more planned for 2025. Snyder hinted at future crossovers within the Absolute Universe, promising an interconnected narrative that will deepen as the series progresses.

Absolute Batman #6 is available in stores now. You can preorder the Absolute Batman Vol. 1: The Zoo HC on Amazon.