Batman is a superhero without classic superpowers. Unless you argue that he has the strongest superpower of all time: virtually unlimited money. A new story about Batman changes that and makes everything even darker, achieving great success.
Which story is it about? In addition to the many great series and films about superheroes, comics are still very popular. Among them is Batman, who regularly gets new stories or versions of himself.
One of the most recent is the Absolute Batman,
a new version of Bruce Wayne in another universe. The big difference from the well-known superhero is the lack of money. But that doesn’t seem to bother many fans, as Absolute Batman #1 is the best-selling comic of 2024 (via dc.com). It changes quite a bit about the origin story.
If you want to know which Batman movie is the best, check out our ranking: All 13 Batman Movies Ranked – Which is the Best?
The Absolute Universe Gives Batman a New Story
What is the Absolute Universe? It is an alternative universe that also provides alternative versions of the heroes we know. Not only the designs of our heroes change, but also their origin story. Since the Absolute Universe is a dark version of the world we know, Batman is also significantly grimmer.
In this universe, Batman’s parents were not rich, but belonged to the working class. During a trip to the zoo, a shooting occurred. Thomas Wayne saved the children, including his son, but died in the process.
Traumatized by his father’s death, Bruce planned from a young age to fight against crime. He went to university, learned everything he needed for his plan, and returned to Gotham after graduating. There he works as a regular engineer, but at night he goes hunting for criminals.
Just because Bruce has no money doesn’t mean he can’t defend himself. He is significantly bulkier than the classic Batman, and his main weapon is a large axe, which is also his batsymbol on his chest. He somewhat resembles the older Batman from The Dark Knight Returns.
In this universe, Batman is also significantly more brutal and ruthless than one might think. In a fight that vidaextra.com shows, you can see Batman chopping off a criminal’s hand with his axe. He even comments: I heard they can bring it back. There’s a hospital three blocks south of here. Or is it east? I can’t remember right now… But I would run.
By the way, there is also an Alfred Pennyworth, but he is not a butler, but a secret agent who has to deal with a criminal organization in Gotham. He also clashes with Batman.
How can I read Absolute Batman? So far, 2 issues of Absolute Batman have been released, but not in German. In English, you can order the first two issues, but they are probably regularly out of stock. Traditionally, collected volumes are released when the storyline is finished. However, you will probably have to wait a bit for a German version. If you are interested in alternative versions of Wolverine, we have a list for you: The 7 Weirdest Variants of Wolverine That We Probably Will Never See in the MCU
