The Most Popular Batman Comic, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the comic you think is the most popular!
Updated on Apr 29, 2024 06:29
For fans of the caped crusader, deciding which Batman comic book takes the top spot can be as challenging as solving a riddle from the Riddler himself. Each issue offers a unique plot twist, a deep dive into beloved characters, or a stunning piece of artwork, which makes ranking them more than a mere matter of personal taste. It is about reflecting the collective admiration and respect for the creative storytelling that defines this iconic series.
By casting a vote on your favorite Batman comics, you contribute to a broader consensus, shaping a list that newcomers and long-time fans alike can rely on for recommendation. This dynamic ranking adapts to new votes, ensuring it always reflects the current opinion of the Batman community. Participate today and see how your preferences compare with those of others in this fan-driven endeavor.
What Is the Most Popular Batman Comic?
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188votes
"The Dark Knight Returns" by Frank Miller
Frank Miller"The Dark Knight Returns" by Frank Miller - considered by many to be the definitive Batman story, this comic explores an older, grittier version of the character as he comes out of retirement to fight crime once again.The Dark Knight Returns is a four-issue comic book miniseries written and illustrated by Frank Miller. It was published by DC Comics in 1986. Set in a dystopian future, the story follows an aging Bruce Wayne who takes up the mantle of Batman again after a ten-year absence. He confronts the criminal underbelly of Gotham City alongside a new female Robin. The comic explores themes of aging, morality, and the relentless pursuit of justice.- Publication Year: 1986
- Publisher: DC Comics
- Number of Issues: 4
- Genre: Superhero, Dystopian
- Setting: Gotham City, Future
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241votes"Batman: Year One" by Frank Miller and David Mazzucchelli - this comic tells the story of Bruce Wayne's first year as Batman, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest Batman stories ever told.
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321votes
"Batman: The Killing Joke" by Alan Moore and Brian Bolland
Alan Moore and Brian Bolland"Batman: The Killing Joke" by Alan Moore and Brian Bolland is a dark and disturbing story that explores the relationship between Batman and his arch-nemesis, the Joker.Batman: The Killing Joke is a critically acclaimed graphic novel written by Alan Moore and illustrated by Brian Bolland. It was first published by DC Comics in 1988. The story revolves around the Joker's attempts to prove that one bad day is all it takes to drive an ordinary person insane. The narrative explores the complex relationship between Batman and the Joker, delving into their contrasting ideologies and the blurred line between sanity and madness. The Killing Joke is known for its dark and gritty tone, tackling themes of identity, morality, and the consequences of one's choices. It has been praised for its thought-provoking storyline, sophisticated artwork, and its impact on the Batman mythos.- Publication Date: March 1988
- Publisher: DC Comics
- Genre: Superhero, Psychological Thriller
- Format: Graphic Novel
- Number of Pages: 48
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415votes
"Batman: Hush" by Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee
Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee"Batman: Hush" by Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee is a modern classic that features many of Batman's most famous villains, including the Joker, Catwoman, and Poison Ivy.Batman: Hush is a superhero comic book storyline published by DC Comics. It was written by Jeph Loeb and illustrated by Jim Lee. The story follows Batman as he unravels a mysterious new enemy named Hush, who seems to know all of Batman's secrets and is targeting his closest allies.- Publication Date: 2002-2003
- Publisher: DC Comics
- Number of Issues: 12
- Genre: Superhero, Mystery
- Art Style: Realistic
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518votes
"Batman: The Long Halloween" by Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale
Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale"Batman: The Long Halloween" by Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale is a mystery story that sees Batman teaming up with Commissioner Gordon and Harvey Dent to catch a serial killer known as "Holiday."Batman: The Long Halloween is a popular comic book series created by writer Jeph Loeb and artist Tim Sale. It was published by DC Comics in 1996-1997. The story revolves around Batman's investigations into a serial killer known as Holiday, who murders people on holidays. As Batman uncovers the truth behind the killings, he finds himself caught in the web of Gotham City's crime families and their ongoing power struggle. The Long Halloween explores the early years of Batman's crime-fighting career and features several iconic characters including Harvey Dent/Two-Face, Catwoman, and Joker.- Publication Year: 1996-1997
- Publisher: DC Comics
- Writer: Jeph Loeb
- Artist: Tim Sale
- Genre: Superhero/Mystery
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611votes
"Batman: Arkham Asylum" by Grant Morrison and Dave McKean
Grant Morrison and Dave McKean"Batman: Arkham Asylum" by Grant Morrison and Dave McKean is a psychological horror story that takes place entirely within Arkham Asylum, Batman's most infamous prison for the criminally insane.Batman: Arkham Asylum is a graphic novel written by Grant Morrison and illustrated by Dave McKean. It was first published in 1989 and has become one of the most popular Batman comics. The story revolves around Batman's journey into Arkham Asylum, a psychiatric hospital for the criminally insane, where he faces off against his most dangerous adversaries.- Publication Year: 1989
- Writer: Grant Morrison
- Illustrator: Dave McKean
- Genre: Superhero, Psychological Horror
- Publisher: DC Comics
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77votes
"Batman: Knightfall" by various writers and artists
Various writers and artists"Batman: Knightfall" by various writers and artists is a massive epic that sees Batman facing off against the villain Bane, who breaks him both physically and mentally.Batman: Knightfall is a highly popular Batman comic series written by various writers and illustrated by various artists. It was published by DC Comics in 1993 and consists of three main story arcs: Knightfall, Knightquest, and KnightsEnd. The series revolves around Batman's encounter with a new formidable villain named Bane, who systematically orchestrates the release of all the inmates from Arkham Asylum, leading to Batman's ultimate downfall and replacement as Gotham City's protector. It explores Batman's physical and emotional struggles as he tries to recover and reclaim his mantle as the Dark Knight.- Publication Year: 1993
- Publisher: DC Comics
- Main Story Arcs: Knightfall, Knightquest, KnightsEnd
- Villain: Bane
- Theme: Psychological and physical trials for Batman
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84votes
"Batman: The Court of Owls" by Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo
Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo"Batman: The Court of Owls" by Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo is a more recent addition to the Batman mythos, this story introduces the mysterious organization known as the Court of Owls, who have secretly controlled Gotham City for centuries.Batman: The Court of Owls is a popular Batman comic written by Scott Snyder and illustrated by Greg Capullo. It is part of DC Comics' New 52 series and was published from 2011 to 2012. The story revolves around Batman's discovery of a secret society called the Court of Owls, who have secretly existed in Gotham City for centuries. Batman faces numerous challenges and confronts his own past as he battles against this powerful and mysterious organization.- Publication Date: 2011-2012
- Series: Batman: The New 52
- Writer: Scott Snyder
- Artist: Greg Capullo
- Publisher: DC Comics
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98votes
"Batman: The Black Mirror" by Scott Snyder and Jock
Scott Snyder and Jock"Batman: The Black Mirror" by Scott Snyder and Jock is a standalone story that takes place after the events of "Batman: R.I.P." and sees Dick Grayson (who has taken over as Batman) investigating a new threat in Gotham City.Batman: The Black Mirror is a critically acclaimed Batman comic book story arc written by Scott Snyder and illustrated by Jock. It was originally published in Detective Comics #871-881 from December 2010 to October 2011.- Title: Batman: The Black Mirror
- Writer: Scott Snyder
- Illustrator: Jock
- Publication Dates: December 2010 - October 2011
- Publisher: DC Comics
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1010votes"Batman: Under the Red Hood" by Judd Winick and Doug Mahnke is a story that explores the return of Jason Todd (the second Robin), who was thought to have been killed by the Joker years earlier.Batman: Under the Red Hood is a popular Batman comic written by Judd Winick and illustrated by Doug Mahnke. It was published by DC Comics and first released in 2005 as part of the Batman storyline.
- Publication Date: 2005
- Writer: Judd Winick
- Illustrator: Doug Mahnke
- Publisher: DC Comics
- Storyline: Batman
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Discussion
Ranking factors for popular comic
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Storyline and writing qualityA well-crafted, engaging, and innovative storyline is crucial to the popularity of a Batman comic. The writing should capture the reader's imagination and stay true to the character's mythology.
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Artwork and visual styleThe artwork should be visually appealing and convey the tone of the story effectively. The designs of characters, settings, and action scenes should be consistent, dynamic, and unique to the particular comic series.
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Impact on Batman mythosPopular Batman comics often introduce new characters or reveal significant plot developments that leave a lasting impact on the overall Batman mythos. This could be the first appearance of a new villain, a change in Batman's status quo, or a significant event in the character's personal life.
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Iconic moments and memorable quotesMemorable scenes and quotes can solidify a comic's place in the Batman canon. Iconic moments that resonate with fans will be referenced and remembered for years to come.
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Sales and circulationHigh sales numbers often indicate a comic's popularity among its readers. A Batman comic that consistently sells well is likely to be considered a fan favorite.
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Critical reception and reviewsPositive reviews and high ratings from respected comic book critics can indicate a comic's popularity among both casual readers and dedicated fans.
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Influence on media adaptationsThe extent to which a Batman comic has influenced movies, TV shows, and other media adaptations is another measure of its popularity. Key elements from popular comics are often adapted into these projects, introducing the stories to a wider audience.
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Awards and accoladesA comic that has received prestigious awards or nominations in its publication history is likely to be more highly regarded and popular.
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Longevity and legacyPopular Batman stories often have a lasting impact on the character's mythos and continue to be celebrated by fans years after their original release.
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Fan opinions and pollsFan opinions, online discussions, and polls can also be used to gauge the popularity of a particular Batman comic. The collective voice of the Batman fan community can reveal trends and preferences that contribute to the ranking of popular Batman comics.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular Batman comic. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Comic is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 2414 views
- 213 votes
- 10 ranked items
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Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Comic once every 24 hours. The rank of each Comic is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular batman comic
Batman has been a cultural icon since his first appearance in Detective Comics #27 in 1939. Over the years, the Dark Knight has starred in countless comic book series, each with their own unique storylines and interpretations of the character. With so many different Batman comics to choose from, it can be difficult to determine which is the most popular. However, there are a few standouts that consistently top the lists of fans and critics alike. From Frank Miller's groundbreaking "The Dark Knight Returns" to the iconic "Batman: Year One" by Miller and David Mazzucchelli, there are plenty of must-read Batman comics for any fan of the Caped Crusader.
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