One of my recurring complaints about this series has been that it never quite managed to escape the shadow of its predecessor, making it feel like an unnecessary sequel. Superman: Space Age had already devoted plenty of time to its version of Batman. Does that change, or is Pariah going to show up for another pointless obligatory cameo?

Batman? A Symbol of Hope?

If you were to tell me that a broad strokes, alternate universe version of Batman would be the most enjoyable thing I read in a long time, well, I might’ve believed you considering the sheer number of Elseworlds DC puts out these days. But the story finally chooses to ignore its Space Age roots and focus on the fact that it is a Batman story to good effect. Not only do we see Dick become Robin, but Dr. Chase Meridian is here as a love interest for Bruce, and yes, they make a joke about “dating your therapist.” [On a serious note, never date your therapist. It will not end well.]

A lot happens in this issue, which may make it feel rushed, but it doesn’t feel that way fo a few reasons. Firstly, the story is paced at a decent clip, taking time to set up the arrival of Dick Grayson all the way to him becoming Robin, peppering in cameos that are thankfully Batman related. Secondly, everything is presented to the readers in the form of old Bruce’s memories, which works as an in-universe explanation.

We see Batman's effect on Gotham, with people fighting back against the False Face Society’s corruption instead of staying quiet as they would in the past. It's nice to see a superhero have a positive effect for once (it’s been a while) and to see that Batman’s war against the corruptive influence of the Society has managed to chip away at what felt like an impossible foe. And that’s what a good superhero is supposed to do - give you strength and inspire you to overcome the adversities you face.

Bring on the Bad Guys!!!

While barely a presence in the last few issues as the driving force behind the False Face Society, Carmine Falcone takes center stage. He’s not the only one, as we see several members of Batman’s rogues gallery show up. Catwoman gets an extended scene, the Riddler and Penguin act out some crimes that wouldn’t look out of place in the Silver Age, and the Mad Hatter, of all people, feels like an intimidating presence (words I never thought I’d say). And, of course, there’s a certain Clown Prince of Crime who is yet to make his debut…though at this point, he’s not committing crimes and is certainly no prince.

However, I wonder if one of my other complaints holds true. Namely, most crimes in Gotham can be traced back to a single source. Yes, there are other costumed criminals, but their crimes are treated as “interesting” and are not given the same gravitas as the crimes of the Society. That may change with the return of a certain someone from Bruce’s past who threatens to burn his world down…unless he also turns out to be part of the False Face Society.

Recommended If

• You like a happy Bruce Wayne.
• Batman and Robin Forever!
• You wanted to see the story stand by itself.

Overall

Batman: The Dark Age took its time to get out of the shadows of its predecessor. But it has been worth the wait as the series delivers its strongest issue so far. The art is good as always - to the point where I can’t find new words to praise it - but there’s an injection of color in this month’s issue that has helped make the book more livelier. Dark Age takes delight in depicting the Batman of a simpler time through a modern lens and does it exceedingly well.

Score: 8.5/10