Absolute Batman’s Traumatic Villain Arcs Make Bane Absolutely Disgusting

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In the concept of Absolute Universe, the primary aim was to develop darker, alternate versions of traditional DC Comics superheroes. This was orchestrated by Darkseid as an intriguing cosmic test, investigating whether heroes would grow even stronger amidst a more ominous backdrop. For Absolute Batman, this challenge took the form of confronting a lethal incarnation of Bane. Moreover, it led to witnessing his closest allies transform into his most ruthless adversaries due to Bane’s cunning machinations.

Bane goes too far in Absolute Batman #12

In the ongoing narrative of Absolute Batman, we find Bruce Wayne infiltrating Ark M, a hidden prison situated off the shores of Gotham City. This supposedly clandestine facility was infamous for hosting bizarre scientific experiments. As Bruce attempts to save Waylon Jones, he verifies the rumors’ truthfulness.

Unfortunately, Bruce fell captive and soon found himself serving as a test subject. Beyond the medical trials, he was subjected to psychological torture at the hands of a man called Bane, who aimed to shatter the indomitable Batman and transform him into a tool, much like Bane himself had been. When Bruce eventually managed to escape with Waylon’s assistance, he discovered that Bane had similarly tested his closest friends and allies.

What happens to each villain?

Bane’s actions towards every villain were utterly gruesome, leaving each one severely disfigured physically. What sets Bane apart as truly terrifying is his ability to inflict emotional damage on Bruce Wayne’s associates psychologically. This left the unyielding Batman with very few allies and Bruce Wayne virtually friendless.

Killer Croc

In a remarkable transformation, Waylon Jones metamorphosed into a monstrous reptile with a dragon-like appearance rather than the typical crocodilian form. Fleeing Ark M alongside Bruce, Waylon pleaded for him to either take his life or provide a means for him to do so himself. Upon Bruce’s refusal, Waylon disappeared into the city’s sewers system, marking the emergence of Killer Croc in the Absolute Universe.

The Penguin

When Bruce investigated on his companions, he was shocked to discover Oswald Cobblepot hospitalized. It seemed that Cobblepot was worried about his stature and physical frailty, prompting Bane to focus his attacks on Cobblepot’s body. Despite having most of his bones shattered, his internal organs remained intact. He lived on, although it was rumored he would now be two feet smaller than before, enduring agony for the remainder of his life. This ordeal appears set to transform Ozzie into the absolute Batman incarnation of The Penguin.

Two-Face

Harvey Dent experienced intense torment at the hands of Bane, not just physically but also mentally. He was forced into a pool of gasoline and suffered severe burns to half his body. Furthermore, Bane manipulated Harvey’s psychological state, exploiting his internal struggle between his duties as a district attorney and his association with criminal allies. This mental onslaught left Harvey’s mind deeply fractured, mirroring the condition of his physical body. However, Two-Face told Bruce that “I only hate you half the time,” indicating that even in his fractured state, Harvey’s inner conflict persisted.

The Riddler

Instead of the others, Eddie Nygma managed to avoid hospitalization. Yet, Absolute Batman’s initial relief transformed into shock upon witnessing his old friend. Bane had engaged Eddie in an intellectual duel and brutally shattered the know-it-all hacker’s skull when he lost. Left for dead, Eddie connected himself to his computer system. Incredibly, he managed to survive despite the damage to his brain. However, the man who used to have all the answers was now doubting every piece of knowledge he had as The Riddler.

Absolute Batman #12 is now available at comic shops everywhere.

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2025-09-10 21:58