Absolute Batman has emerged as one of DC's most significant comic book series in recent years, with the first issue clinching the title of 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 shaken up the traditional Batman mythos. From the design of this impressively buff Batman to the profound impact of his mother's presence, and the looming threat of Absolute Joker, they delve into what readers can expect next.

Warning: full spoilers for Absolute Batman #6 ahead!

Absolute Batman #6 Preview Gallery

11 ImagesDesigning Absolute Batman

The Absolute Universe's Batman is a striking figure, characterized by his bulging muscles, shoulder spikes, and various other enhancements to the classic Batsuit. This new iteration has earned a spot among our list of the 10 greatest Batman costumes of all time. Snyder and Dragotta discussed how they envisioned this hulking Dark Knight, designed to reflect a Batman who lacks the wealth and resources of his traditional counterpart.

"Scott's initial idea was to go big," Dragotta explained to IGN. "He wanted the biggest Batman we've ever seen. Initially, I drew him really large, but Scott pushed for even more, saying, 'Nick, let's go bigger.' We ended up with proportions reminiscent of the Hulk."

Dragotta added, "The design emphasizes his role as a weapon. Every part of his suit serves a purpose, embodying the theme of his character. This concept will continue to evolve as the series progresses."

For Snyder, the necessity of making Batman larger was clear. "The classic Batman's superpower is his wealth, which intimidates criminals. Without that, this Batman must rely on his physical presence and the utility of his suit to strike fear into his foes," Snyder said. "He confronts villains who believe they are untouchable, and he needs to be a force of nature to prove them wrong."

The design of Absolute Batman also pays homage to Frank Miller's The Dark Knight Returns, with a notable splash page in issue #6 echoing Miller's iconic cover of Batman leaping through the air against a lightning bolt.

Giving Batman a Family

Absolute Batman reimagines many aspects of the Dark Knight's mythology, but perhaps the most significant change is the revelation that Bruce Wayne's mother, Martha, is alive. This alters Batman's traditional backstory, transforming him from a solitary orphan to a character with much more at stake.

"It was a decision I debated extensively," Snyder admitted. "I chose Martha because Bruce's relationship with Thomas has been explored extensively in other universes. Martha's presence adds a moral compass and a vulnerability to Bruce's character, enriching his narrative."

Another pivotal change introduced early in the series is Bruce's childhood friendships with characters who become his rogues gallery in the traditional DCU, including Waylon Jones, Oswald Cobblepot, Harvey Dent, Edward Nygma, and Selina Kyle. These relationships deeply influence Bruce's journey to becoming Batman, as Snyder hints at their impact in upcoming issues.

Absolute Batman vs. Absolute Black Mask

In "The Zoo," Absolute Batman asserts his presence in Gotham as a new generation of costumed supervillains emerges. The arc focuses on Roman Sionis, aka Black Mask, leader of the nihilistic Party Animals. Snyder and Dragotta considered introducing a new villain but chose to revamp Black Mask to fit their narrative.

"We wanted a villain embodying nihilism, reflecting a world beyond saving," Snyder said. "Black Mask's aesthetic and role as a crime boss allowed us to mold him into a fresh, creator-owned character while staying true to his essence."

The rivalry between Batman and Black Mask culminates in issue #6, where Batman delivers a brutal beatdown on Sionis' yacht. Despite not crossing the line to kill, Batman leaves Black Mask severely injured, reinforcing the underdog status of this Batman in the Absolute Universe.

The Threat of Absolute Joker

The series teases the inevitable confrontation with Absolute Joker, Batman's dark counterpart. Introduced in issue #1, Absolute Joker is depicted as a wealthy, worldly figure who never laughs, setting the stage for a unique dynamic with Batman.

"The Zoo" ends with a chilling glimpse of Joker, surrounded by a cocoon of dead babies and ordering Bane to deal with Batman. Snyder emphasized that in this inverted system, Joker represents the established order, contrasting Batman's role as a disruptor.

Absolute Joker's independent evolution into a psychopathic supervillain adds a new layer to his character, hinting at a complex relationship with Batman as their paths converge.

What to Expect From Absolute Mr. Freeze and Absolute Bane

The series takes a detour in issues #7 and #8, introducing Mr. Freeze with a horror-inspired twist, illustrated by Marcos Martin. "Mr. Freeze's story mirrors Bruce's struggle with his identity and survival," Snyder explained. "In this universe, we're pushing boundaries and exploring darker paths for our villains."

Issue #6 also sets up a confrontation with Bane, raising questions about how to portray him against the physically imposing Batman. "Bane is not small," Snyder teased. "We wanted him to make Batman's silhouette look smaller."

The larger Absolute line, including Absolute Wonder Woman and Absolute Superman, launched in 2024, with plans for Absolute Flash, Absolute Green Lantern, and Absolute Martian Manhunter in 2025. Snyder hinted at future interactions between characters within the Absolute Universe, promising a more interconnected narrative moving forward.

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