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Warning! This post contains SPOILERS for Absolute Batman #1

DC Comics’ newest version of Batman is basically Marvel’s Punisher…but better. Set in an Elseworld created by Darkseid and is subsequently fueled by darker aspects compared to the primary DC Universe, Absolute Batman debuts a Bruce Wayne who still becomes The Dark Knight, though without any of the main Batman’s privilege or resources. Likewise, this new Caped Crusader is much more of an underdog, while also utilizing brutal and incredibly violent techniques as he seeks vengeance in Gotham City.

As observed by this reality’s version of Alfred Pennyworth (an elite intelligence operative with orders to kill Batman), Bruce Wayne is a total and “absolute” beast in Absolute Batman #1 by Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta, relishing in the brutal violence he inflicts on the Party Animals, Gotham’s most dangerous gang of criminals. Using the blades hidden in the ears of his cowl and the bat logo on his chest (revealed to be an axe head), Batman clearly enjoys his work as noted by Alfred, making sure his message is heard by those who would try and terrorize his city.

While both share the same mission of vengeance and the desire to end crime in Gotham, Absolute Batman certainly seems to enjoy punishing his foes far more than the original Caped Crusader does. As such, it truly does feel as though this new Dark Knight is more aligned with Marvel Comics’ Punisher aka Frank Castle.

Absolute Batman Isn’t Going To Kill

But He’s Just As Brutal as Marvel’s Punisher

Despite maintaining his no-kill policy, this new Batman isn’t shying away from maiming his opponents, such as the gruesome severing of hands. Furthermore, Absolute Batman’s second confrontation with Alfred proves he’s not above using firearms either. Having stolen Pennyworth’s custom shotgun during their first encounter in Absolute Batman #1, Bruce modified the shotgun to fire a spread of non-lethal miniaturized batarangs.

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The added intensity to this new Batman’s methods do help him resemble Marvel’s Punisher, who often carries a wide arsenal of firepower and deadly blades to punish and bring criminals of all kinds to an end in the Marvel Universe (permanently). As such, one could argue that Absolute Batman is still morally superior to Punisher due to his current desire not to kill, though his increased brutality and willingness to wield guns and leave permanent damage does suggest it wouldn’t take much for him to step over the line intentionally or otherwise, becoming even more like Frank Castle in the future.

This Batman Enjoys His Vengeance and Violence More Than Any Other

The Definition Of Intense

Clearly, the primary goal of this first issue is to show how Absolute Batman is very much a grittier and far more brutal version of Batman whom fans are familiar with. He’s not a billionaire with a cave under his mansion armed with all kinds of advanced gadgets. He’s an underdog who’s angry and wants to punish those he believes deserve it, using the tools he has on hand (not unlike The Punisher). To that end, it’s going to be fascinating to explore the nuances of this new Batman even further as the series continues.

Absolute Batman #1 is on sale now from DC Comics.

“}]] It’s the most Punisher version of Batman ever…  Read More  

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