10 Best Batman Stories in DC Comics History

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For 86 years, Batman has been a huge source of revenue for DC Comics. He originally wasn’t as popular as Superman, but over time, as comics evolved, that changed. Batman pushed the boundaries of what comics could be, introducing a darker, more mature tone, and has been featured in many critically acclaimed stories. Some fans feel there are too many Batman stories being published, but they continue to buy them, proving their enduring love for the character.

Batman has been the subject of some truly remarkable stories. Many of the most talented comic book creators have contributed to the character over the years, and DC Comics has greatly benefited from their work. Here are ten of the best Batman stories ever published – stories that deserve recognition.

10) Batman and Robin (Vol. 1) #1-3

Grant Morrison’s work on Batman is widely considered a brilliant three-part story, perhaps the definitive Batman tale. A key part focuses on Dick Grayson becoming the new Batman and mentoring Bruce Wayne’s son, Damian, as Robin, following Bruce’s apparent death in Final Crisis. The first three issues of Batman and Robin, created by Morrison and artist Frank Quitely, introduced readers to this new Dynamic Duo and their battle against the unsettling villain Professor Pyg. Morrison and Quitely work exceptionally well together, and this story is a prime example of their talent, delivering exciting action, strong character development, and a unique creative energy.

9) Batman (Vol. 1) #667-669

Grant Morrison’s time writing Batman produced many excellent stories, but a particularly noteworthy, yet often overlooked, arc is found in Batman (Vol. 1) #667-669, created with artist JH Williams III. This story features Batman and Tim Drake encountering the Club of Heroes – a global group of vigilantes inspired by Batman himself. When members of the Club begin to be murdered, the world’s best detectives must team up to solve the mystery. It’s a classic detective story, full of surprising twists and turns. JH Williams III’s artwork is exceptional, showcasing his talent for innovative page designs and a dark, realistic style that perfectly complements the narrative.

8) “Endgame”

DC’s New 52 relaunch ushered in a new era for its comics, and it included a particularly celebrated run of Batman stories. Many fans consider Batman (Vol. 2), written by Scott Snyder and illustrated by Greg Capullo, to be the best title from those five years. While the “Court of Owls” storyline is popular, I believe “Endgame” is even better. This story sees The Joker return with a plan to break Batman, leading to an incredible confrontation between the two. It’s a fantastic story that doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves, and it stands out as a highlight of one of the best Batman runs of the 21st century.

7) Arkham Asylum: A Serious Art on Serious Earth

I first discovered Grant Morrison’s genius with Arkham Asylum: A Serious House on Serious Earth back in 1989, illustrated by the incredible Dave McKean. The story throws Batman into a truly nightmarish situation – Arkham’s inmates have taken over, and they want him to join them. It’s honestly one of the darkest, most disturbing Batman tales ever told – and that’s saying something for a character who usually operates in the shadows! It’s a perfect blend of psychological horror, featuring Batman and his iconic villains at their most twisted. McKean’s artwork is just phenomenal, and he even designed the physical book itself for the first edition – which is why I only collect those! The whole package feels integral to the story. It’s a prime example of what a Batman story can achieve when creators aren’t afraid to push boundaries and explore new territory.

6) “I Am Suicide”

Tom King’s Batman comics are controversial – many fans weren’t thrilled with his approach. However, I think it’s a surprisingly strong run, and the story arc “I Am Suicide,” with art by Mikel Janin, perfectly illustrates why. Batman must rescue the Psycho-Pirate to save Gotham Girl, who’s been captured by Bane. To do this, Batman assembles his own version of the Suicide Squad and launches an attack on Santa Prisca’s most secure prison, resulting in some of the most exciting action sequences in the whole series. The story is a deep dive into Batman’s mind, revealing unexpected but believable truths about the character – King manages to show us more of Batman’s inner world than many other writers. Mikel Janin’s artwork is stunning and truly elevates the story, particularly during Batman’s solo infiltration of the prison, with incredibly creative page designs and unforgettable scenes.

5) “Year Two”

While not as famous as the first installment, “Year Two” is a truly excellent Batman story and deserves just as much recognition. Written by Mike W. Barr, Alan Davis, and Todd McFarlane, it features Batman, still new to his role, facing off against a dangerous, long-standing vigilante known as the Reaper. This story really captures the essence of Batman, focusing on his struggle to define his heroic identity. The writing is superb, and the artwork from Davis and McFarlane is fantastic – though their styles differ, both artists perfectly complement the narrative and bring it to life. “Year Two” is a surprisingly strong story about Batman’s early days and deserves more praise than it usually receives.

4) “Year One”

“Year One” brilliantly reimagined Batman’s beginnings for a modern audience, and it remains highly acclaimed. Frank Miller and David Mazzucchelli tell the story of Bruce Wayne’s return to Gotham after years of training, and introduces us to Lieutenant Jim Gordon as he starts his career with the Gotham City Police Department. Allowing Miller to redefine Batman’s origin was a stroke of genius, as he brought his distinctive, gritty noir style to the story with fantastic results. Mazzucchelli’s artwork is exceptional; his detailed line work is stunning and was crucial in shaping the story into the iconic tale it is today.

3) The Dark Knight Returns

Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns is often hailed as one of the best comics of all time. While I wouldn’t go that far (though it is excellent), it’s definitely one of the greatest Batman stories ever told and a hugely influential work in the world of comics. Most Batman fans are familiar with the plot: an older Batman emerges from retirement to face off against classic villains like Two-Face and the Joker, culminating in a final battle with Superman. The book’s stunning visuals, created by Miller with inker Klaus Janson and colorist Lynn Varley, are unforgettable, and the writing is top-notch. The Dark Knight Returns truly delivers everything you could want in a comic book, and then some.

2) “Batman R.I.P.”

Grant Morrison’s initial Batman stories laid the groundwork for a major turning point, introducing the Black Glove – a global criminal organization led by the enigmatic Dr. Hurt. This culminated in “Batman R.I.P.”, a high-octane story co-created with Tony S. Daniel, where the Black Glove launches a full-scale assault on Batman. From the very beginning, the story is incredibly intense and doesn’t let up. It’s classic, mind-bending Morrison, but also a fantastic superhero tale that redefines the limits of Batman’s determination. By the time the Joker appears as the Thin White Duke – a nod to David Bowie’s iconic persona – you’re experiencing some of the most creative and outlandish Batman stories ever told. Morrison and Daniel crafted a truly unforgettable narrative, widely considered the greatest Batman story for years, until a new favorite emerged.

1) “Gotham Nocturne”

Many great Batman stories fly under the radar, but one truly stands out as the best: “Gotham Nocturne.” Created by a team of talented writers and artists including Ram V, Si Spurrier, and Rafeal Albuquerque, this epic ran through issues #1062-1089 of Detective Comics. It centers on the Orgham family, who return to Gotham with plans to reshape the city, opposed only by Batman and an unlikely alliance of heroes and villains. This 27-chapter story is a thrilling ride full of unexpected twists, blending every type of Batman narrative into a single, expansive arc. The accompanying back-up stories add even more depth and richness to the experience. It’s a lengthy read, but incredibly rewarding, and will fundamentally change your perspective on the Dark Knight.

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2026-01-04 02:15