Absolute Batman's Counterpart: The Ultimate Joker Revealed

Absolute Batman has emerged as one of DC's most significant comic book series in recent years, captivating readers with its fresh take on the iconic character. The first issue not only became the best-selling comic of 2024 but has continued to dominate sales charts, showcasing the public's enthusiasm for this bold and often surprising reinvention of the Dark Knight.

As creators Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta conclude their initial story arc titled "The Zoo," they've shared insights with IGN on how Absolute Batman challenges the traditional Batman mythos. Dive into the details of designing this powerfully built Batman, the transformative impact of having a mother in Bruce Wayne's life, and what lies ahead as the Absolute Joker steps into the limelight.

Warning: full spoilers for Absolute Batman #6 ahead!

Absolute Batman #6 Preview Gallery

11 ImagesDesigning Absolute Batman

The Absolute Universe's Batman stands out as an imposing figure, characterized by his bulging muscles, shoulder spikes, and various enhancements to the classic Batsuit. This unique design earned him a spot among the 10 greatest Batman costumes of all time. Snyder and Dragotta shared with IGN how they envisioned this larger-than-life Dark Knight, emphasizing a Batman who, unlike his traditional counterpart, lacks wealth and resources.

"Scott's initial directive was to think big," Dragotta explained. "He wanted this to be the most imposing Batman we've ever seen. I drew him large initially, but Scott pushed for even more, saying, 'Nick, let's go bigger.' It was about reaching Hulk-like proportions."

Dragotta added, "The design was driven by the need to make every aspect of his suit a weapon. It's not just a utility belt; the entire suit is a utility, reflecting his character's essence. This approach will continue to evolve the design in future issues."

For Snyder, the necessity of an enormous Batman was clear. "In the classic Batman narrative, his superpower is his wealth," Snyder noted. "Without that financial advantage, this Batman compensates with his physical presence. He's intimidating not just through his skills but through his sheer size and the utility of his suit."

Snyder further elaborated, "His adversaries in this universe are resource-rich, like Black Mask. As Batman faces increasingly formidable foes, his size becomes a crucial tool, symbolizing his determination to confront and overcome those who believe they're untouchable."

Art by Nick Dragotta. (Image Credit: DC)

The influence of Frank Miller's The Dark Knight Returns is evident in Absolute Batman, particularly in a striking splash page from issue #6 that pays homage to Miller’s iconic (and surprisingly divisive) Dark Knight Returns cover. Dragotta acknowledged the inspiration, stating, "Frank Miller and David Mazzucchelli's Batman storytelling is a massive influence. That homage felt right and necessary."

Giving Batman a Family

Absolute Batman redefines several elements of the Dark Knight's mythology, including the revelation that Bruce Wayne's mother, Martha, is alive. This significant change transforms Batman from a solitary figure into one with a family, adding layers of vulnerability and strength.

"Introducing Martha was a major decision," Snyder confessed. "It shifted the dynamic, making her the moral compass of the series. Bruce, while a moral force, is young and idealistic, and Martha's presence adds both strength and vulnerability to his character."

Art by Nick Dragotta. (Image Credit: DC)

Another pivotal change introduced in issue #1 is Bruce's childhood friendship with future rogues gallery members like Waylon Jones, Oswald Cobblepot, Harvey Dent, Edward Nygma, and Selina Kyle. Snyder hinted that these relationships will further shape Bruce's journey into Batman, with more revelations to come.

Art by Nick Dragotta. (Image Credit: DC)

"Without global training, who would Bruce learn from?" Snyder questioned. "His friends become his teachers: Oswald for the underworld, Waylon for combat, Eddie for logic, Harvey for politics, and Selina for... well, that's for future issues. These relationships are at the heart of the series, grounding and strengthening Bruce."

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

In "The Zoo," Absolute Batman asserts his presence in Gotham as new supervillains emerge, including Roman Sionis, aka Black Mask, who leads the nihilistic Party Animals. Snyder and Dragotta chose Black Mask as the perfect antagonist for this arc, initially considering a new villain before deciding to reshape Black Mask to fit their narrative.

"Black Mask's skull aesthetic and nihilism fit our theme of a world past the point of no return," Snyder explained. "We treated him like a creator-owned character, staying true to his crime boss roots but making him entirely fresh."

Art by Nick Dragotta. (Image Credit: DC)

The confrontation between Batman and Black Mask in issue #6 culminates in an intense battle on Sionis' yacht, where Batman, using a bowling ball, delivers a brutal message. "Tell me again how I don’t matter! I love it!" he screams, emphasizing his determination to make a difference despite being underestimated.

"These lines weren't planned, but they encapsulate our Batman's spirit," Snyder said. "He uses doubt as fuel, embodying the belief that change is possible no matter the odds."

The Threat of Absolute Joker

The series builds towards a confrontation with the Absolute Joker, teased since issue #1. In this universe, Joker is the embodiment of wealth and order, contrasting sharply with Batman's disruption. The end of "The Zoo" hints at Joker's sinister plans, involving Bane to handle the Batman problem.

Art by Nick Dragotta. (Image Credit: DC)

"Joker represents the system in our inverted world," Snyder noted. "His relationship with Batman is central to the series, and his evolution will be a key focus moving forward."

Dragotta added, "This Joker is already terrifying, and his storyline is coming soon. We've planted clues about his power and master plan, and readers should stay tuned."

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

Issues #7 and #8, illustrated by Marcos Martin, introduce a radically reinvented Mr. Freeze, leaning into horror. Snyder praised Martin's emotional storytelling, aligning with Bruce's struggles and Mr. Freeze's dark path.

Art by Nick Dragotta. (Image Credit: DC)

"Mr. Freeze reflects Bruce's internal conflict," Snyder shared. "In our universe, we can push boundaries and explore darker versions of these characters."

Issue #6 also sets up a future confrontation with Bane, who Snyder confirms will be a physically imposing adversary, designed to make Batman's silhouette appear smaller.

"Bane is not small," Snyder affirmed. "He's meant to dwarf Batman, adding to the challenge."

As part of the larger Absolute line, Absolute Batman launched alongside other titles like Absolute Wonder Woman and Absolute Superman, with more on the horizon. Snyder hinted at future interactions among these characters in 2025 and beyond.

"We're planning how these characters will affect each other," Snyder said. "It's about showing how their actions and the villains' machinations intertwine in this universe."

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