Absolute Bane’s New Powers & Origin Make Him Batman’s Most Fearsome Villain

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In a different yet straightforward phrasing:

Bane, initially conceived as Batman’s most formidable adversary, stands out with his imposing physique and an intellect nearly on par with Bruce Wayne’s. The version of Bane presented in Absolute Universe makes quite an intimidating debut. However, in the comic book “Absolute Batman #11” by Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta, we get a glimpse into how Bane’s character has been adapted for this new environment, and it’s revealed that he poses a greater threat than ever before, having been “broken” and rebuilt to be more menacing than before.

The narrative begins with a flashback featuring Alfred Pennyworth, a soldier of fortune, reflecting on his encounters with the intimidating character Bane. It’s evident that this portrayal of Bane is significantly larger than even the muscular version of Batman known as Absolute Batman. Yet, Alfred remembers that Bane’s power isn’t solely physical; there’s more to him than just brute strength.

In this universe, the Venom serum isn’t just a powerful steroid; it boosts both mental and physical abilities, bestowing extraordinary memory skills upon its user. This has endowed Bane with a vastly greater body of knowledge than even the Absolute Batman, making him both physically and intellectually superior to the hero in this reality, which is truly terrifying.

How Absolute Batman changes Bane’s origin

Originally in the DC Universe, Bane was imprisoned for life as a juvenile due to the transgressions of his father. He matured within the formidable prison known as Peña Duro, before being experimented on with the Venom serum. The enhanced strength from this substance, coupled with his intellectual prowess, enabled him to break free from Peña Duro. Thereafter, he aimed to confront Batman, wanting to demonstrate that he surpasses the fear of bats instilled in him during his childhood.

In the 11th issue of Absolute Batman, there’s a twist: Bane was raised alongside his revolutionary father as part of a group of freedom fighters who were sent to Peña Duro. Unlike the original storyline, Bane doesn’t acquire Venom until after he manages to break out from prison.

One notable shift involves Absolute Bane having a connection to the version of The Joker within the Absolute Universe. This reclusive billionaire encounters Bane on a beach, who then mysteriously escapes for a private conversation. Remarkably, he addresses Bane by name, suggesting prior knowledge. Exactly what was said between them remains uncertain, but it was sufficient to prompt Bane to murder his own father and later transform into an infamous mercenary.

Absolute Batman #11 is now available at comic shops everywhere.

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2025-08-20 19:46