Sometimes the best stories in the world of comics are the Elseworlds stories, and in this case, with DC Comics, Batman: Arkham Knight is a part of those peripheral stories that make us love Batman, and in this case Batgirl even that much more.
An extension of the video game by the same name, this two-part story tells the story of how Gotham City PD decides to dispel the almost mythological Batman by creating their own costume showing how the caped crusader is a mere man and not a supernatural creature. The problem as often explained in the comics is that when the vigilante comes out to play, so do the extra crazy criminals trying to take him out, in this case it’s Killer Moth.
What made the origin of Batgirl more interesting is that she has been training in jiu-jitsu and other martial arts in hopes of being more than just a librarian. The opportunity arose and as Killer Moth tried to kill her father, she dons the makeshift costume, saves her father and in that catches the attention of the real Batman.
As the story continues in Arkham Asylum, Dr. Quinzel loses herself in the depths of depravity, becoming just as psychologically deranged as The Joker himself and in doing so, she turns into the ultimate villainous sidekick for the homicidal lunatic. Essentially, Batman has his Robins and now The Joker has his Harley Quinn, especially after she takes over a traveling circus to take out Batgirl.
Tim Seeley, proves that you can still tell a full story in a single issue and in a world of story arcs, it was quite refreshing. Matthew Clark is a fantastic artist and unique to the story yet somehow links back to the video game without being as dark or ominous.
Batman: Arkham Knight #1 is out at your local comic shop and online today.
