Marvel/DC: Deadpool/Batman #1 Review: Disappointing Crossover Saved by B-Stories

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Fans were thrilled when Marvel and DC announced they would team up their characters in comics again after twenty years. Even the less successful crossovers between these two comic giants are usually enjoyable, and that holds true for *Deadpool/Batman #1*. However, the most interesting parts of this highly anticipated collaboration actually come *after* the main story.

Deadpool unexpectedly finds himself in Gotham City with a mission: eliminate Batman. However, taking down the Dark Knight is much harder than he anticipated, even with the Bat-Signal constantly revealing Batman’s location. After a rocky beginning, Deadpool and Batman team up when Deadpool offers to help track down the Joker.

Greg Capullo’s artwork is stunning, as fans would anticipate. He’s exceptional at depicting intense action, and the story by Zeb Wells allows that skill to shine. However, the humor often feels too self-aware and immature, even for a character like Deadpool. There’s a moment where Wade acknowledges all the raunchy jokes he *could* make, but chooses not to.

As a great Batman story once pointed out, a joke falls flat if you have to explain it. The plot and ending of the Deadpool/Batman story are just as predictable, and that’s a problem – especially for a story featuring Deadpool or the Joker, who thrive on surprise.

Deadpool/Batman’s A-Game comes through B-Stories

Although the Deadpool and Batman team-up story is a bit inconsistent, the rest of this collection is excellent. Most of the stories take place in shared universes where Marvel and DC heroes live together, instead of being transported to each other’s worlds. This allows for some really interesting and insightful explorations of the characters.

The idea of Captain America and Wonder Woman being friends is genuinely heartwarming, bringing out the best in both of them. Green Arrow and Daredevil, despite often clashing with other heroes, actually work really well together as a team. A story about Jeff the Land Shark and Krypto the Superdog simply acting like regular pets is pure joy. I’d happily buy a whole comic book series exploring a world where Rocket Raccoon fills Hal Jordan’s role in the Hard Traveling Heroes. Honestly, any of those concepts would make a more captivating miniseries than the Deadpool/Batman team-up.

Deadpool/Batman #1 is a great comic for fans of both Marvel and DC. What really shines isn’t the fighting, but when these iconic heroes team up. Overall, it’s a very enjoyable read, and hopefully, we’ll see more team-ups like this in the future.

Grade: 7/10

Marvel/DC: Deadpool/Batman #1 is now available at comic shops everywhere.

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2025-09-17 15:57