DC’s Best Alternate Universe Versions of Batman

Batman is one of the most iconic characters of all time. We’ve seen him in countless film and comic forms over the years. Truly, in DC Comics and films alike, each Batman is different. Sometimes it’s just a different costume. However, just as often, the costume implies an even greater change about the Dark Knight.

So, let’s look at multiple versions of Batman from across the DC Omniverse. Most importantly, we’ll explore what these costumes tell us about that specific version of Bruce Wayne.

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Gotham by Gaslight Batman

Undoubtedly, one of the most iconic alternate universe versions of Batman is featured in the Gotham by Gaslight story arc. The story takes place during the Victorian Era. Naturally, that means that there are Victorian Era dangers. And certainly, the most dangerous of all is Jack the Ripper. Luckily, Bruce Wayne has steampunk equipment and a classic dark trench coat to hide all of his tech. With grappling hook in hand, and Catwoman at his side, he can certainly save the day.

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Ninja Batman

Next up, let’s travel back to feudal Japan to meet Ninja Batman. When Gorilla Grodd sends Gotham’s most dangerous villains into the past, only Batman can prevent them from altering the timeline. Of course, the only way he can do that is by blending into the environment. By embodying the philosophy, methodology, and technology of the ninjas, Batman can finally stop his greatest enemies. It helps that he has donned armor befitting only the greatest samurai.

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The Batman Who Laughs

Careful, because this next alternate universe version of Batman is the most dangerous of them all. He is the Batman Who Laughs! And yes, it’s still Bruce Wayne. However, this specific Bruce Wayne was infected with toxin from The Joker. If you mix genius with absolute madness, you end up with the most dangerous being across the Multiverse. Obviously, in this alternate version, Batman has let go of his classic costume and weapons. Instead, he holds a vicious blade and stretches inside of a pitch black straitjacket.

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Knightmare Batman

Of course, this list wouldn’t be complete without one of the most unique Batman versions we’ve ever seen on screen. After all, in Zack Snyder’s Justice League, we meet a Batman who seems to have a completely different set of morals. In fact, Knightmare Batman is so dramatically different that he’s willing to work alongside The Joker! Perhaps the apocalyptic state of the world changed him. Whether it’s the dust storms that require his goggles, scarf, and coat or the bulky utility belt, you can tell something has shifted within Bruce.

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The Grim Knight

Finally, we have The Grim Knight. Yes, he may be similar to the Dark Knight whom we know and love. And he does still fight for justice! That said, he fights extremely differently. Whereas the Bruce Wayne we’re most familiar with exercises restraint, the Grim Knight fights with sheer brutality. For example, the Dark Knight puts villains in Arkham Asylum. Alternatively, the Grim Knight puts villains in the grave. You can certainly tell by his equipment that he is even more intense than our classic Batman.

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So, which Batman is your favorite? Do you prefer the original? Or, perhaps, is there a place in your heart for an alternate version? And hey, don’t forget other interesting variations like Dawnbreaker, The Drowned, or Lovecraft Batman!

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