There is always a novel direction for Batman, whether it involves transforming him into a mech, a ninja, or an exceptionally powerful character. The latest interpretation from DC Comics presents Batman as a tokusatsu hero within a science fiction setting.
At his C2E2 panel, Kyle Higgins, co-creator of Radiant Black, unveiled his latest project, Immortal Legend Batman. This six-issue series brings together Higgins, DC star artist Dan Mora, and several familiar collaborators, including writer Mat Groom and artist Erica D’Urso from Inferno Girl Red, colorist Igor Monti, and letterer Becca Carey, all of whom have contributed to Radiant. The series is part of the Elseworlds label and is set centuries in the future, where humanity has utilized dark matter to advance interstellar space travel and establish a galactic empire. The story introduces "Shadows," soulless monsters terrorizing newly colonized worlds. Batman, Robin, and Nightwing emerge as the Immortal Legends, a trio who harness dark matter to become superheroes.
Higgins emphasized that Immortal Legend Batman has been in development for years, tracing back to 2020 when he and Groom encountered Mora’s tokusatsu-inspired redesigns for the characters. Both Higgins and Groom, avid fans of the tokusatsu genre, perceived an opportunity to integrate this passion into a distinct version of Gotham, featuring unique character interpretations. Having previously collaborated on Power Rangers with Carey, Monti, D’Urso, and editor Matt Levine, Higgins describes this project as a "perfect storm" of creative synergy.
Mat Groom expressed their intent to reimagine Batman by highlighting his determination, resilience, and selflessness in an unprecedented manner. The narrative transports Batman into space, positioning him as a wandering hero who ventures into humanity’s final frontier in search of dangerous threats inadvertently unleashed upon the galaxy.
The series, Immortal Legend Batman, is slated to debut on August 27, featuring Bruce Wayne and his allies embarking on this cosmic adventure.