Absolute Batman Meets His Match: The Absolute Joker Unveiled

Absolute Batman has emerged as one of DC's most significant comic book launches in recent years, with its first issue becoming the best-selling comic of 2024. The series has consistently topped sales charts, a testament to the enthusiastic reception of this bold and often surprising reinvention of the Dark Knight. Following the conclusion of their first story arc, "The Zoo," creators Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta shared insights with IGN on how they've transformed the traditional Batman mythos. Dive into their discussion on crafting a more muscular Batman, the impact of Bruce Wayne having a living mother, and the looming threat of Absolute Joker.

Warning: full spoilers for Absolute Batman #6 ahead!

Absolute Batman #6 Preview Gallery

11 ImagesDesigning Absolute Batman

The Absolute Universe's Batman is a formidable figure, characterized by his imposing physique, shoulder spikes, and various enhancements to the classic Batsuit. This design earned him a spot on our list of the 10 greatest Batman costumes of all time. Snyder and Dragotta discussed the inspiration behind this larger-than-life Batman, emphasizing the need to create a character who compensates for the lack of wealth and resources with sheer physical presence.

"Scott's vision was to make him big," Dragotta explained to IGN. "He wanted the biggest Batman we've ever seen. Initially, I drew him large, but Scott pushed for even more, saying, 'Nick, let's go bigger.' We were venturing into Hulk-like proportions."

Dragotta elaborated, "The design was driven by the need to make him bold and iconic, reflecting his role as a weapon. Every element of his suit, from the emblem to the utility belt, is designed to be a tool in combat. This approach will continue to evolve as the series progresses."

For Snyder, the necessity of a larger Batman stemmed from the character's traditional reliance on wealth. "In the classic Batman narrative, his wealth is a superpower," Snyder noted. "Without that, this Batman must rely on his size and physicality to intimidate Gotham's criminals. His suit and every piece of it are designed to be a weapon, making him a constant threat."

Snyder further explained, "The villains he faces believe they're untouchable due to their resources. As he confronts increasingly formidable foes, Batman needs to be a force of nature, proving that he can indeed reach them."

The influence of Frank Miller's The Dark Knight Returns is evident in Absolute Batman, particularly in a striking splash page in issue #6 that pays homage to Miller’s iconic (and surprisingly divisive) Dark Knight Returns cover. Dragotta acknowledged this influence, saying, "Frank Miller and David Mazzucchelli's Batman has been a huge inspiration, especially in storytelling and layout. The homage to Dark Knight Returns felt necessary and right."

Giving Batman a Family

Absolute Batman reimagines many aspects of the Dark Knight's mythology, including the revelation that Bruce Wayne's mother, Martha, is alive. This change transforms Batman from a solitary figure into one with a family, adding new dimensions to his character.

"It was a decision I debated extensively," Snyder admitted. "Having Martha alive felt more interesting than Thomas, given the paternal focus in other universes. Her presence in the story became a moral compass for Bruce, adding both strength and vulnerability to his character."

Snyder continued, "Martha's role in the story evolved naturally, becoming a core part of Batman's DNA. Her presence adds a new layer to Bruce's character, making him more relatable and complex."

Another significant change introduced in issue #1 is Bruce's childhood friendships with characters like Waylon Jones, Oswald Cobblepot, Harvey Dent, Edward Nygma, and Selina Kyle. These characters, traditionally part of Batman's rogues gallery, form an extended family in the Absolute Universe. Snyder hinted at their influence on Bruce's development into Batman, saying, "Without global training, Bruce learned from his friends. Oswald taught him the underworld, Waylon taught him to fight, Eddie taught him logic, Harvey taught him politics, and Selina taught him much more."

"These relationships are central to the story," Snyder added. "They ground Bruce and make him more vulnerable, adding depth to his character and the narrative."

Absolute Batman vs. Absolute Black Mask ---------------------------------------

In "The Zoo," Absolute Batman begins to assert his presence in Gotham as new supervillains emerge. The arc focuses on Roman Sionis, aka Black Mask, the leader of the Party Animals, a gang reveling in Gotham's chaos.

Black Mask may not be the typical choice for a Batman origin story, but Snyder felt he was the perfect fit for "The Zoo." Initially considering a new villain, they chose to revamp Black Mask instead. "We saw potential in reshaping him," Snyder said. "His nihilistic aesthetic fit our theme of a world beyond saving, where the only response is to party amidst the ruins."

The confrontation between Batman and Black Mask in issue #6 is intense, with Batman delivering a brutal beating while asserting his significance. "These lines encapsulate our Batman's essence," Snyder remarked. "He uses the world's cynicism as fuel, refusing to believe change is impossible."

The Threat of Absolute Joker

The series builds towards a confrontation with Absolute Joker, who is introduced as Batman's dark counterpart. Unlike traditional narratives, Absolute Joker is already a wealthy, trained psychopath before encountering Batman.

"The concept was to invert the system," Snyder explained. "If Batman is the disruption, Joker represents the established order. Their relationship is central to the story, with Joker evolving as he interacts with Batman."

Dragotta added, "This Joker has been established for a while. His power and master plan are hinted at throughout the series, setting the stage for future conflicts."

What to Expect From Absolute Mr. Freeze and Absolute Bane ---------------------------------------------------------

Issues #7 and #8 introduce Mr. Freeze, with Marcos Martin taking over for a short arc. This version of Mr. Freeze leans into horror, reflecting Bruce's internal struggles.

"Marcos brings an emotional depth to the story," Snyder said. "Mr. Freeze's dark path mirrors Bruce's challenges, offering a twisted take on the character."

Snyder continued, "In this universe, we're free to explore darker versions of these characters, making it our own creator-owned Batman."

Issue #6 also teases a confrontation with Bane, raising questions about his size relative to the massive Batman. "Bane is big," Snyder confirmed. "We wanted him to make Bruce's silhouette look smaller."

Finally, the broader Absolute line, including Absolute Wonder Woman and Absolute Superman, will see more interconnected stories in 2025. "Bruce is aware of events in other parts of our Absolute Universe," Snyder teased. "We're planning how these characters will interact in the coming years."

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