Absolute Batman's Counterpart: The Absolute Joker Revealed

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 Absolute Batman redefines the traditional Batman mythos. Dive into the details of crafting this impressively muscular Batman, the impact of Bruce Wayne having a living mother, and what to anticipate as the Absolute Joker steps into the spotlight.

Warning: full spoilers for Absolute Batman #6 ahead!

Absolute Batman #6 Preview Gallery

11 ImagesDesigning Absolute Batman

The Batman of the Absolute Universe is a formidable presence, characterized by his bulging muscles, 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 imposing version of the Dark Knight, emphasizing a Batman who lacks the traditional wealth and resources.

“Scott's vision was to go big,” Dragotta explained to IGN. “He wanted the biggest Batman we've seen, and I initially drew him large, but Scott pushed for even more. We were venturing into Hulk-like proportions.”

Dragotta elaborated, “The design was driven by the need to make him bold, iconic, and reflective of his character. Every element of his suit, from the emblem to the utility, is a weapon. This approach will continue to evolve as the series progresses.”

Snyder emphasized the necessity of Batman's size in the Absolute Universe, stating, “The classic Batman's superpower is his wealth. Without that, this Batman must rely on his physical presence to intimidate. When he confronts villains like the Riddler in a high-tech suit, it's a statement of power. Here, his size and the utility of his suit are his tools.”

Snyder added, “The villains he faces believe they're untouchable due to their resources. Batman needs to be a force of nature, proving he can reach them despite their advantages.”

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 not only reimagines Batman's appearance but also his personal life, notably by revealing that his mother, Martha, is alive. This change transforms Batman from a solitary figure into one with much to lose.

Snyder shared his initial hesitation, “I debated this change extensively. Choosing Martha over Thomas felt more interesting, given Batman's paternal relationships in other universes. Her presence adds a moral compass and vulnerability to Bruce, enriching his character.”

Another significant change introduced in issue #1 is Bruce's childhood friendships with future villains like Waylon Jones, Oswald Cobblepot, Harvey Dent, Edward Nygma, and Selina Kyle. These relationships shape Bruce's journey to becoming Batman.

Snyder explained, “Without global training, Bruce learns from his friends. Oswald teaches him the underworld, Waylon teaches him to fight, Eddie provides high-level detection skills, Harvey teaches city politics, and Selina offers invaluable lessons. These relationships are central to the series, grounding and strengthening Bruce while making him more vulnerable.”

Absolute Batman vs. Absolute Black Mask

In "The Zoo," Batman confronts a new generation of villains, with Roman Sionis, aka Black Mask, taking center stage. Sionis leads the Party Animals, a gang reveling in Gotham's chaos.

Snyder noted, “Black Mask was the perfect villain for this arc. His nihilistic aesthetic fit our theme of a world beyond saving. We reshaped him into something fresh while staying true to his core as a crime boss.”

Snyder reflected, “These lines encapsulate our Batman's spirit. He uses the world's cynicism as fuel, refusing to believe change is impossible.”

The Threat of Absolute Joker

The series teases a confrontation with the Absolute Joker, who embodies everything Batman traditionally is—wealthy, worldly, and trained by the best. Yet, he never laughs.

The Absolute Joker is already a terrifying figure before meeting Batman, suggesting a different origin story from the classic Killing Joke.

Snyder hinted, “Their relationship will evolve throughout the series.”

Dragotta added, “Joker's power and master plan are hinted at, and we're excited for readers to see how it unfolds.”

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 struggles with his identity and survival.

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

Snyder confirmed, “Bane is big. We wanted him to make Bruce's silhouette look smaller.”

Finally, the broader Absolute line, including Absolute Wonder Woman, Absolute Superman, and upcoming titles like Absolute Flash, Absolute Green Lantern, and Absolute Martian Manhunter, will see increased interaction among characters in 2025.

Snyder teased, “Bruce is aware of events in other parts of the Absolute Universe. We're planning how these characters will interact in 2025 and beyond, focusing on how they affect each other within this world.”

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