Justice League Dream Girls: A DC Pride Event #4 Review

 

Justice League Dream Girls: A DC Pride Event #4 Review

Writers: Jadzia Axelrod, Nicole Maines & Klaus Janson

Artists: Rosi Kämpe, Brandt&Stein & Klaus Janson

Colorists: Tríona Farrell & Dearbhla Kelly

Letterers: Jodie Troutman, Frank Cvetkovic & Lucas Gattoni

Cover Artist: Brandt&Stein

Variant Cover Artists: Phil Jimenez & Arif Prianto; Robin “Zombie” Higginbottom

Editors: Ash Padilla, Andrea Shea & Paul Kaminski

Publisher: DC Comics

Price: $4.99 US/Variant $5.99 US (cardstock)

Release Date: June 24, 2026

 

The Justice League proudly includes Superman in its ranks. But while Batman carries Kryptonite in his utility belt, some worry that Galaxy's abilities represent a greater potential danger to their fellow heroes. As Galaxy stands on trial, a villain tempts Dreamer in her sleep. And as her accusers fight to yank Galaxy's membership card because of what she might do, the Key makes progress toward achieving his goal. Can Galaxy aid her "villainous" friend? And how might the Key use the Akashic records to attack the Justice League? Let’s leap into Justice League Dream Girls: A DC Pride Event #4 and see!

 

Story: Something Borrowed, Something Doomed

When Dreamer pushed Galaxy out of her dream, the princess of Cyandii awakened to a nightmare. Jessica Cruz and Guy Gardner were prosecuting Galaxy for crimes against the Green Lanterns and asserting she didn't belong in the Justice League. Galaxy stood up for herself for a time. But instead of trying to prove she wasn't a danger to the Justice League, Galaxy knew who represented the real threat. So, she found a way back to the Dream Dimension. But by the time Galaxy arrived, the Key had put Dreamer under his thrall.

 

In Justice League Dream Girls: A DC Pride Event #4, the Key reveals why he has fought so hard to access the Akashic Records. But Galaxy is more interested in rescuing her friend. Under Amanda Waller's domination, Dreamer might have been an indentured servant. But the Key can turn Dreamer into his mindless slave.

 

Jadzia Axelrod and Nicole Maines's story follows Galaxy and Dreamer's battle in the Dream Dimension. It also revisits the argument about the kind of person who represents a threat to others. Like Batman, both Galaxy and Dreamer can weaken and control other superheroes. While Batman has proven himself time and again, a question mark hangs over the young metahumans.

 

Galaxy and Dreamer's actions led to their current difficulties. Both may want to be heroes. But the Justice League doesn't just hand out membership cards to people who demonstrate their powers. If Galaxy and Dreamer can escape the Dream Dimension, they must decide if they are willing to develop a track record that their elders can respect in Justice League Dream Girls: A DC Pride Event #4.

 

Art: Something Borrowed, Something Doomed

Black eats away at glimpses of her surroundings as the Key chokes Galaxy, while Dreamer gazes upon them, unseeing, in her wedding dress. After binding Galaxy in chains, the Key drags her along as he and Dreamer walk among the bookshelves towering above them. When Galaxy shakes off her chains, the panels tilt as she battles her captor. As Rosi Kämpe and Brandt&Stein portray the confrontation amid the storehouse of knowledge, they compare his ambitions with the wealth surrounding the Key.

 

Tríona Farrell and Dearbhla Kelly enliven Justice League Dream Girls: A DC Pride Event #4 with a palette of bright colors. Yet, black surrounds scenes of the Key battling his challenger. The blue interior suggests why people strive to learn. His orange chains undergird his ambitions, as a red book reminds readers why the Key has returned. Yet as the villain attacks with yellow energy, Galaxy fights him with waves of violet power.

 

Frank Cvetkovic and Jodie Troutman fill white dialogue balloons with uppercase and lowercase letters. The letters grow bold for intonation, swell for raised voices, and revert to lowercase for lowered voices. Blue symbols in a cloudy balloon overlay Dreamer's dialogue while under the Key's control. Sound effects enhance a brutal confrontation in the library, while giant letters either deform balloons or escape their domination.

 

Story: Heroes Just For One Day

It’s not easy to realize that you are different from others. But in Klaus Janson's story, the protagonist immediately discovers that people who look or act differently don't fit in. And when they stand out in a crowd, people ostracize them. In Heroes Just For One Day, the protagonist finds something he loves. But he must decide what he does with his new hobby.

 

Art: Heroes Just For One Day

Klaus Janson introduces his character as a smiling boy in love with his new bicycle. His black, white, and gray art grounds the biographical story in reality, while the things that inspire the boy glow with color. The children wear uniforms to school and hang up their jackets before classes. Yet an image on the TV, a visit to the library, and a long, thin panel of his journey to another city chart his search to discover who he will become. 

 

Lucas Gattoni places uppercase letters in white dialogue balloons as Klaus Janson shares pivotal scenes from the hero's journey. Yet small lowercase letters in boxes guide us through the coming-of-age story. Thanks to DC Comics for sharing this story with us.

 

Final Thoughts

Everyone has different definitions of heroism. For some, all that matters is the result. With others, method and motives matter more than accomplishments. But as young people strive to prove themselves as they forge their futures, a villain demonstrates why he can never achieve lasting success in Justice League Dream Girls: A DC Pride Event #4.

 

Rating 9.5/10

 

To look inside see my preview of Justice League Dream Girls: A DC Pride Event #4. 

 

For what happened last time, see my preview of Justice League: Dream Girls—A DC Pride Event #3.

 

For what happened before that, see my preview of Justice League: Dream Girls—A DC Pride Event #2.

 

For the beginning of Dreamer and Galaxy's dream journey, see my preview of Justice League: Dream Girls—A DC Pride Event #1.

 

For the precursor to this series, see my review of Justice League Intergalactic Special #1.

 

 

Summer of Supergirl Special #1 Review

 

Summer of Supergirl Special #1 Review

Writers: Sophie Campbell, Gail Simone & Mark Waid

Artists: Belén Ortega & Cian Tormey

Penciller: Emma Kubert

Inker: Sandra Hope

Colorists: Tríona Farrell, Trish Mulvihill & Alex Guimarāes

Letterers: Becca Carey, Ariana Maher & Steve Wands

Cover Artist: Belén Ortega

Variant Cover Artists: Pablo Villalobos & Tula Lotay

Supergirl Movie Variant Cover Artist: Mahmud Asrar with Mike Spicer

Editors: Jillian Grant & Brittany Holzherr

Publisher: DC Comics

Price: $5.99 US/Variant $6.99 US (cardstock)

Release Date: June 24, 2026

 

When the weather turned cold amid the holidays, Kara Zor-El started to feel down. How could Kara enjoy time with her new family and friends when all the people she knew in Argo City are dead? Yet, life has its rhythms. And even though Kara has taken a few beatings, when trouble shook the miniaturized Kryptonian city of Kandor, she arrived to save the day.

 

After Lesla-Lar offered Kara a means of regaining what she lost in Kandor, Kara also discovered something that could give her more power than before. But when she interrupts Lobo during his first job following his self-imposed isolation on Azzplaque Major, Supergirl's fate seems to intertwine with the newly reinstated bounty hunter. Will they frag each other into extinction? Or will Supergirl, Lobo, Krypto, and Dawg team up for an extraordinary mission together? Let’s leap into Summer of Supergirl Special #1 and see!

 

Main Man’s Best Friend: Story

After sitting in a jail cell, Lobo, Kara, Krypto, and Dawg attend a hearing. As they face the judge, Lobo pleads innocence, while Kara Zor-El contends they are both guilty.

 

When fate separates them, Dawg returns to Midvale with Kara and Krypto in Summer of Supergirl Special #1. Lobo’s best friend even helps as Kara uses her powers to aid others. But Dawg misses his master. And unlike Lobo, he doesn’t understand the reasons for their separation.

 

As Sophie Campbell examines the bond between a pet and its owner, she also illustrates how Kara’s attitude influences the people around her. Lobo remains the petulant child who didn't want to conform to rules on Czarnia. Yet a little love can go a long way in encouraging good behavior, turning enemies into friends, and helping make the world a better place.

 

Main Man’s Best Friend: Art

As a judge sits beneath an enormous seal, Lobo raises his chain-wrapped forearm. Beside him, Kara smiles at Lobo’s antics. As Kara’s counsel hovers before the judge, his dispassionate discourse infuriates Lobo. Yet as Krypto, Dawg, and Leegra follow Kara’s lead, Lobo’s counsel slumps and supports his head on the table.

 

As Tríona Farrell adorns Belén Ortega’s cheery art with a bright palette, blue creeps into the green courtroom as Kara makes her case. Red tinges Lobo’s retelling of events, and the evening sky on Plinko Astra. Yet as Crush’s red attire seems linked with her father’s antics, stars twinkle in the violet air when she meets Leegra in Summer of Supergirl Special #1.

 

Becca Carey fills white dialogue balloons with black uppercase letters, while Kara’s thoughts fill white clouds. White offscreen dialogue appears in colored boxes. Sound effects accompany more property damage than the night of Clarissa Giltedge’s No Beer New Year party, while enlarged yellow letters help Kara appeal to Lobo’s deeply buried good side.

 

Lost Girls: Story

Taking an exercise break is a great way to relieve stress. But when Brad uses the company mascot to make a statement, Supergirl worries that it will hurt others. Yet instead of getting a good workout, Kara discovers she may have bitten off more than she can chew. When another hero arrives to help, Supergirl still wants to blow off steam. But by sharing her struggles with a like-minded person, Kara’s tension lessens, helping her reconcile with her painful past and look toward the future in Gail Simone’s story.

 

Lost Girls: Art

When a futuristic female robot tears through a concrete wall and a chicken-wire fence, guards brace to fire, while a fireman warns people of danger. As they gaze through a window, Brad’s coworkers look concerned and aghast, while his expression makes an unintended comparison with a supervillain. After Supergirl’s face reflects off the robot’s smooth metal face, Emma Kubert and Sandra Hope combine a tilted silhouette scene with a close-up of the robot’s attack.

 

When the gold robot induces fear, the guards respond with yellow-and-orange gunfire. While the red in her costume links Supergirl with the emergency responders, her gold belt suggests empathy for the robot’s plight. As Trish Mulvihill adorns this ten-page story in vibrant colors, Supergirl shares two colors of her costume with the hero who comes to her aid.

 

As Ariana Maher fills white balloons with black uppercase letters, the robot speaks in a machine font. Small black letters in a yellow banner locate the reader in time and space. Kara begins her tale by sharing her white thoughts in blue boxes. But her narration gradually disappears as Kara interacts with the similarly minded hero.

 

Who Is Supergirl: Story

Having regained a physical form, Red Tornado’s consciousness no longer inhabits the Justice League Watchtower’s computer systems. So, when he needs to recheck the data in the personnel files, Red Tornado asks Conner Kent to review the Super-Family archives. In Mark Waid’s story, Jon Kent finds Steel helping Conner with his assignment. Yet while both belong to the Super-Family, they are puzzled by contrasting entries. Jon may enjoy teasing Conner about living in the past. Yet as he recognizes Conner and Steel's concerns, Jon realizes he can help them understand Kara's place in the Super-Family.

 

Who is Supergirl: Art

As Jon enters the immense room, Kara's numerous costume changes fill a wall monitor in Summer of Supergirl Special #1. A white-and-indigo hologram showcases her origins, while a color photo displays Kara's arrival on Earth. Alex Guimarāes adorns Kara’s early choices with yellow, orange, and brown. But as Kara takes on more color, Cian Tormey’s blue line drawing of all the people who helped Kara appears behind her. 

 

Steve Wands introduces characters and the location with black uppercase letters in yellow boxes. Black uppercase dialogue fills white balloons as they debate Kara’s position in the Super-Family. Offscreen dialogue in white and colored boxes helps the trio realize the breadth and depth of Kara’s contributions to the people around her. Thanks to DC Comics for sharing this story with us.

 

Final Thoughts

Kara Zor-El may always feel like an outsider. Yet her vibrant spirit and positivity help her make friends wherever she goes. Lesla-Lar’s memory lingers as Kara protects Midvale while advocating criminal reform. And as friends bond over similar interests, histories, and food, Superman's son helps encapsulate Kara's rich history in Summer of Supergirl Special #1.

 

Rating 9.7/10

 

To look inside see my preview of Summer of Supergirl Special #1.

 

For how Lesla-Lar offers to help Supergirl power-up, see my review of Supergirl #14.

For Supergirl's encounter with Lobo, see my preview of Lobo #4. 

For Clarissa's No Beer New Year party, see my review of Supergirl #9. 

For the latest entry in DC's Elseworlds Universe, see my review of Supergirl: Survive #1. 

 

Justice League Dream Girls: A DC Pride Event #3 Review

 

Justice League Dream Girls: A DC Pride Event #3 Review

Writers: Jadzia Axelrod & Nicole Maines

Artists: Brandt&Stein, Jan Bazaldua & Rosi Kämpe

Colorists: Dearbhla Kelly, Adriano Lucas & Tríona Farrell

Letterers: Frank Cvetkovic & Jodie Troutman

Cover Artist: Brandt&Stein

Variant Cover Artists: Phil Jimenez & Arif Prianto; Oscar Vega

Editors: Ash Padilla, Andrea Shea & Paul Kaminski

Publisher: DC Comics

Price: $4.99 US/Variant $5.99 US (cardstock)

Release Date: June 17, 2026

 

Everyone wants to condemn Dreamer for aiding Amanda Waller when she robbed the metahumans of their powers. So, after Galaxy invites Dreamer along on Star Sapphire's mercy mission to Naltor, Guy Gardner and Jessica Cruz argue against Dreamer's future participation in the Justice League. But while the heroes weigh whether Dreamer and Galaxy represent a greater threat than Lex Luthor, the condemned lie under the Key's spell.

 

Dreamer may be unaware of the battle raging in the Watchtower over her future. Yet as she dreams, Dreamer discovers that she is not a passive participant. And although she refuses to believe that she can be a hero, Dreamer pushes Galaxy out of their shared dream. Like one of the costumes she wore in her dreams, can Dreamer embrace a more hopeful view of the future? And as he lurks in her subconscious, what knowledge does the Key hope Dreamer can unlock for him? Let’s leap into Justice League Dream Girls: A DC Pride Event #3 and see!

 

Story

She helped rescue Steve Trevor in Themyscira. As Robin Hood, she protected participants in a Pride parade. After visiting exotic places and combating foes, Galaxy feels exhausted when she revives. Worse, the display screens filling the Justice League Watchtower are an onslaught on her senses. Yet when the Question tells Galaxy that her membership in the Justice League is in jeopardy, she ignores Jon Kent and Kat’s pleas. Galaxy refuses to rest and let others decide where she belongs.

 

As Galaxy rushes to defend herself before the Justice League, Dreamer abandons her recent superhero cosplay in Justice League Dream Girls: A DC Pride Event #3. As she told Galaxy in the castle, she is tired of combating the naysayers. After trying so hard to prove herself, she realizes that the superhero community will never accept her. And rather than be seen as a villain, it is easier to sleep the pain away.

 

Before expelling her from their dream, Dreamer argued that all the heroes love and admire Galaxy. Yet in Jadzia Axelrod and Nicole Maines, Galaxy must defend her right to stand among her fellow heroes. As they question her ability to control her powers, they also debate Galaxy's judgment.

 

All this takes place following the Justice League's decision to offer amnesty to villains. As Jack Ryder argued on the set of Hardwired, the Justice League leaders imposed the controversial pilot program on their membership. In their wisdom, Batman, Wonder Woman, and Captain Marvel threw open the doors to villains who have stolen, tortured, and murdered people. So as Galaxy begins to wonder where she belongs, a hero who embodies youth, change, and idealism becomes a first step toward attacking the leaders’ more questionable choices in Justice League Dream Girls: A DC Pride Event #3.

 

Art

After Galaxy clutches her head, she raises her arm before her face. Jon catches her when she falls, while Kat elicits a smile when she cradles Galaxy's chin with her hand. Then Galaxy marches off toward the meeting, where she raises her hand toward the heroes standing above her on the dais. While Guy Gardner, clad in his priestly robes, crosses his arms and frowns at Galaxy, Dreamer stands upon the castle parapet. As Dreamer’s trenchcoat pixelates, the glowing fragments float away like flower petals on the wind. When Steve Trevor appears, his features shift, evoking how Dreamer altered her friend’s attire.

 

As Brandt&Stein, Jan Bazaldua, and Rosi Kämpe portray Galaxy and Dreamer’s battles for their future, Dearbhla Kelly, Adriano Lucas, and Tríona Farrell adorn Justice League Dream Girls: A DC Pride Event #3 with a loaded palette of bright colors. Galaxy’s violet outfit links her with Kat and Star Sapphire. Her indigo skin links her with Extraño, who regards all costumed superheroes as vigilantes and rule-breakers.

 

The blue wraparound viewscreens link with Batman and Wonder Woman's impartiality. As Dreamer wears a blue-and-white costume, the energy flung across a blue-and-white corridor represents all the colors in the emotional spectrum. Yet as Steve Trevor comforts Dreamer in his green flight suit, Guy Gardner and Jessica Cruz's uniforms reveal what they're most afraid of losing.

 

Frank Cvetkovic and Jodie Troutman fill white dialogue balloons with uppercase and lowercase letters of varying sizes and fonts. Dreamer’s thoughts inhabit blue boxes, while white letters in black balloons and boxes signal danger. As laughter and coughing fill the air, and an unseen threat demonstrates its fiery temperament, sound effects enhance the actions that alarm the Green Lanterns. The bonus story, One Fine Day, focuses on Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn’s relationship and illustrates why they have become one of the most popular couples in comics. Thanks to DC Comics for sharing this story with us.

 

Final Thoughts

Everyone wants to belong. Yet sometimes, the fight doesn’t seem worth it. As Dreamer loses hope of acceptance, Galaxy fights to retain what she has achieved. Yet as she argues her case, Galaxy must also question why she is waging this battle against her accusers. And while the heroes attack someone who would never willingly hurt them, a villain takes strides toward achieving power over them in Justice League Dream Girls: A DC Pride Event #3.

 

Rating 9.5/10

 

To look inside see my preview of Justice League Dream Girls: A DC Pride Event #3.

 

For what happened last time, see my preview of Justice League: Dream Girls—A DC Pride Event #2.

 

For the beginning of Dreamer and Galaxy's dream journey, see my preview of Justice League: Dream Girls—A DC Pride Event #1.

 

For how this series started, see my review of Justice League Intergalactic Special #1.

 

For Jack Ryder's argument on the set of Hardwired, see my review of Justice League #19. 

 

DC K.O. Knightfight #3 Review

 

Writer: Joshua Williamson

Artist: Dan Mora

Colorist: Tríona Farrell

Letterer: Tom Napolitano

Cover Artists: Dan Mora, Ludo Lullabi, Riley Rossmo & Jeff Spokes

Editors: James Reid & Rob Levin

Publisher: DC Comics

Price: $3.99/$4.99 Card Stock

Release Date: January 7, 2025

 

Bruce Wayne takes pride in his sidekicks. He loves Dick Grayson, Jason Todd, and Tim Drake as fiercely as he does his son Damian. While he risks his life for Gotham, Bruce fears letting his sons and Gotham down. Instead, Batman lets the Earth down when the Joker shoots him before he can enter the tournament to become King Omega.

 

So, the Heart of Apokolips creates another challenge to test him. But this contest isn't like battling his foes to protect Gotham. Nor is it like battling his friends to save the world. Can Batman follow in Darkseid's footsteps and sacrifice his family to become King Omega? Or is the Heart of Apokolips playing another game with Batman? Let’s grab our batarangs, leap into DC K.O. Knightfight #3, and see!

 

Story

Being a mentor is tough, particularly when you’re putting your life on the line to protect others. Bruce Wayne poured everything he had into giving Dick Grayson a better future. It hurts when Dick believes Bruce is insane and cares only about retaining his power. Then, the Heart of Apokolips hurls Bruce into the clutches of another former sidekick. But while Jason Todd also thinks Bruce is insane, he believes he is confronting Clayface.

 

Bruce couldn't prevent the Joker from reaching the Earth's core. Nor could Bruce defend himself when the Joker shot him before he could enter the tournament. In Joshua Williamson's story, the Heart of Apokolips forces Bruce to confront another reality in which the Joker defeated him. When Bruce fell, he left Jason Todd alone, watching over a silent Gotham for twenty years.

 

Others may see Batman as a solitary hero. But Batman always works with others. And there's no one he'd rather work with than Dick, Jason, Tim, Damian, and his other protégés. But this is the problem in DC K.O. Knightfight #3. The Heart of Apokolips doesn’t want Batman to work with others. It may talk tough. But like a needy Robin, the Heart is jealous of Batman's love for others and yearns to submit to a worthy master. First, Batman must demonstrate that he can do what he pledged to do on the Justice League Watchtower. Batman must sacrifice everything and everyone else in his life and devote his sole focus to reshaping reality with the Heart of Apokolips.

 

Art

After transporting Batman to a technological future, the Heart of Apokolips turned Gotham into a haunted version of Kandor. Batman has spent his life protecting people from monsters and trying to prevent people from becoming monsters. In DC K.O. Knightfight #3, Bruce embraces the abomination. As Clayface, he wrestles with Jason Todd. He hurls his protégé off a building. But as he sees the red and black Batman fall to his death, Clayface’s arm stretches out and hauls Jason back. Dan Mora shows Clayface resolve into Batman. After Jason takes off his mask, the anger drains from his face as understanding dawns in his eyes. Then Jason races toward his former foe as a black storm envelops Batman.

 

Tríona Farrell adorned Dick Grayson's high-tech world with electrifying colors before immersing us into the red, gray, and brown of Jason's prison. In DC K.O. Knightfight #3, she transports readers to a world filled with color. Batman confronts his next former apprentice amid a palette dominated by yellow, blue, and gray. Green serves as a reminder of how each of Bruce's "sons" began his tutelage. But Bruce's sole reality now is that he inhabits a heart of darkness.

 

While Batman’s thoughts appear as uppercase white letters in black boxes with yellow outlines, the Heart of Apokolips speaks in larger uppercase letters in black fields. Tom Napolitano fills white and colored dialogue balloons with uppercase and lowercase letters of varying size. As sound effects heighten a battle, they accompany one protégé in solving the cold case of his career. Yet the Heart’s outraged shouts loom largest as the Heart of Apokolips urges Batman to understand what it needs from him. Thanks to DC Comics for sharing this story with us.

 

Final Thoughts

Before, the Heart was just a thing, a means to an end. But conversation is the first step toward understanding. And the Heart of Apokolips wants Batman to accept the role he has undertaken. No tricks. No half-measures. The Heart demands nothing more or less than what Batman pledged to give it. The only question in DC K.O. Knightfight #3 is whether Bruce Wayne can do what it takes to become a god.

 

Rating 9.4/10

 

To look inside see my preview of DC K.O. Knightfight #3. 

 

To catch up, see my review of DC K.O. Knightfight #1

 

and my review of DC K.O. Knightfight #2. 

 

DC K.O. Knightfight #2 Review

 

Writer: Joshua Williamson

Artist: Dan Mora

Colorist: Tríona Farrell

Letterer: Tom Napolitano

Cover Artists: Dan Mora, Guillem March, Jorge Molina & Kendrick “Kunkka” Lim

Editors: James Reid & Rob Levin

Publisher: DC Comics

Price: $3.99/$4.99 Card Stock

Release Date: December 3, 2025

 

Batman fell before he could enter the contest to rule the Heart of Apokolips. But he had a contingency plan. After he dies, his armor revives him and teleports him back to Gotham. But it isn't the Gotham he knows. Instead, Dick Grayson is Batman. Dick rules Gotham from his Bat-Tower. He oversees an empire, protecting nations around the world with field offices in every major city.

 

Dick Grayson has fulfilled Bruce's hopes. He has become a far greater leader than Bruce ever could. Yet while claiming that Bruce was a control freak, Dick is Earth's sole Batman. Can Bruce Wayne convince Dick Grayson to work together with him again? And how is Bruce's fate linked to the Heart of Apokolips growing in the Earth’s core? Let’s grab our batarangs, leap into DC K.O. Knightfight #2, and see!

 

Story

Like Sherlock Holmes and London, Bruce Wayne knows Gotham inside and out. Protecting his city has been his lifelong mission. But Bruce has come to realize that no one controls Gotham. Like the heart pumping with Omega energy at the Earth’s core, Gotham has its rhythms, moods, and a will of its own.

 

In DC K.O. Knightfight #2, Batman listens to Dick Grayson’s heart while they fight. Bruce knows the toll protecting Gotham has taken on him. He also knows Dick’s heart, having raised and trained him. Yet Bruce also hearts the Mother Box he secreted in his Apokoliptian armor. The Heart of Apokolips sends it a signal, convincing Batman that he cannot trust his senses.

 

Batman proposed this plan. He agreed to battle his friends in the Justice League to master the Heart of Apokolips, become the King Omega, and remake the Earth in his image. He saw no other choice. The future belonged to Darkseid unless Bruce or another contestant could supplant him. But Batman cheated. Unlike his friends and comrades in the Justice League, Batman raced to enter the tournament with an Apokoliptian ace up his sleeve. And in Joshua Williamson’s story, that places Batman in a unique position.

 

Batman never wanted to rule the world. All he wants is to protect Gotham. He takes pride in his accomplishments and the family he has built. Instead of battling other opponents, the Heart of Apokolips forces Bruce Wayne to confront his greatest fears. In DC K.O. Knightfight #2, Batman battles Dick Grayson and another of his Robins. Both of his “sons” protect the world differently from Bruce. But in training them and pouring his life into them, Bruce gave each of them a piece of himself. And just as Darkseid sacrificed his son to forge the Absolute Universe, Batman must prove he can do the same by battling and defeating his family.

 

Art

The Bat-Tower hovers above Gotham amid the driving rain, a symbol of all Dick Grayson has built. Yet Dick tries to kill his mentor before monuments to Bruce’s other protégés. Batman defends himself wearing colorful, medieval-style armor. Like Dick’s army of Robin followers, the armor calls attention to itself. A legion of panels marches across pages as Dan Mora showcases Batman’s battle against overwhelming odds. Amid the fighting, Bruce grasps a weapon that recalls Darkseid's sacrifice.

 

Tríona Farrell adorns Bruce in yellow, green, red, pink, gray, and blue, while Dick wears a somber blue-and-black costume. The Robins shout their presence with brighter colors, suggesting Dick wants people to see them, while he directs them from the shadows. When Bruce and Dick fight in a flurry of time-lapse images, the page becomes a sea of blue and pink. But when Bruce overcomes one challenge, the Heart of Apokolips hurls him into a Black-and-White world. Only a few colors emerge from this starker reality, forcing Batman to face his fears over making the wrong choices.

 

Amid Dan Mora's action-packed art and Tríona Farrell’s vivid colors, Tom Napolitano fills white dialogue balloons with black uppercase letters in DC K.O. Knightfight #2. Batman’s thoughts appear as white letters in black boxes with yellow outlines. While sound effects heighten a battle with Dick Grayson, they swarm into panels as Bruce battles another opponent. Thanks to DC Comics for sharing this story with us.

 

Final Thoughts

Slain by the Joker, Batman traverses a nightmare in which his sons hate him. Bruce Wayne thought he could escape death. But while his friends fight and die to become the new master of Earth, Bruce battles the people he loves most, and would sacrifice his life for, in DC K.O. Knightfight #2.

 

Rating 9.8/10

 

To look inside see my preview of DC K.O. Knightfight #2. 

To catch up see my review of DC K.O. Knightfight #1. 

Batman: Dark Patterns #12 Review

 

Writer: Dan Watters

Artist: Hayden Sherman

Colorist: Tríona Farrell

Letterer: Frank Cvetkovic

Editors: Arianna Turturo & Rob Levin

Cover Artists: Hayden Sherman & Ashley Wood

Publisher: DC Comics

Price: $4.99/$5.99 Card Stock

Release Date: November 12, 2025

 

After rescuing Commissioner Gordon from a burning coroner’s lab, Batman sequesters himself in his library. Alfred tries to get Bruce Wayne to tend to his injuries and the infection raging inside him. But while Alfred tries to defuse Bruce's anxiety over Gotham's fate, a chance remark connects with his research into Gotham's history. The young crimefighter races back to the city without taking his medicine.

 

Like Firefly, Bruce Wayne believes he knows the Child of Fire’s intentions. But he doesn't realize that the arsonist has Gotham's volunteer coroner in his clutches. Can Batman rescue Dr Sereika before the flames consume him like they almost did Commissioner Gordon? And can Batman prevent the Child of Fire from burning down the city he loves? Let's grab a fire extinguisher, leap into Batman: Dark Patterns #12, and see!

 

Story

When Nicky Harris uncovered a story that the authorities didn't want unearthed, Gotham's government tarnished his credibility, forcing him into obscurity. So, the reporter goes outside the law, leaving a trail of breadcrumbs for the police and Batman to unearth. Along the way, Nicky sets a few fires.

 

In Batman: Dark Patterns #12, Nicky Harris believes he knows what is best for the city. He knows people cling to symbols in difficult times. For many in Gotham, Batman is a symbol of hope. But as Batman investigated Nicky’s design, Dr Sereika threatened to turn Batman into just another police detective.

 

As he unleashes the final portion of his plan, Nicky Harris sets the Gotham Stock Exchange ablaze and drags Dr Sereika inside. With the flames roaring around them, Nicky waits for the fire to decide. Who will influence Batman the most? The reporter who wants Batman to inspire change? Or the coroner, who helps Batman preserve the status quo?

 

Dan Watters’ story focuses on how symbols influence us. Like those used by religions, organizations, and governments, these iconic images take on a life of their own. People cling to them for the ideas they express. These symbols become living entities that inspire those who believe in them. For Firefly and Nicky Harris, the fire chooses who should live and who should die. But for Batman, there is no choice. He will defend Gotham and the people in it, regardless of the cost to himself. That's something he demonstrates to Alfred, Commissioner Gordon, and the city’s inhabitants in Batman: Dark Patterns #12.

 

Art

As Hayden Sherman shifts camera angles of the Blackgate Penitentiary van, a close-up shows Detective Bullock glance over his shoulder. Commissioner Gordon leaves Firefly to approach the panel of chicken wire. The gray-and-black van becomes a character as it sweeps through an intersection, turning into oncoming traffic as it races through the city. Buildings rise on either side as the van speeds toward the financial district. Flames dance amid the Corinthian columned splendor of their destination, turning the Gotham Stock Exchange into a torch. 

 

Tríona Farrell paints Batman: Dark Patterns #12 with a loaded palette of vibrant colors. Nicky Harris and Dr Sereika wear beige and black insulated suits, resembling tigers surrounded by yellow and orange flames. While Nicky promised a fair competition, Dr Sereika sits in chains. And instead of wearing another cracked infant's face, the coroner's mask resembles a skull. Green flames join their yellow and orange brethren, suggesting the growth and rejuvenation that fire can bring. But when Batman appears in blue and grey, he clutches a yellow coil of bat-line like a Lasso of Truth.

 

Frank Cvetkovic fills white dialogue balloons with black uppercase dialogue that grows bold for intonation. Bruce's thoughts appear as bold lowercase black letters in gray paper scraps. Lowercase letters accompany coughs, sighs, and lowered voices as the Bat-Signal once again forms a symbol of hope, dominating an iconic page in this final issue of the series. Thanks to DC Comics for providing a review copy.

 

Now, let's take a look inside:

 

 

  

Final Thoughts

When the political leadership covers up Gotham's problems instead of dealing with them, Nicky Harris believes a complete overhaul of the city is necessary. But Batman knows that Gotham will pay for such rapid change in blood. So, he risks his life to give people the choice to introduce manageable, beneficial change by meeting the Child of Fire on his own terms in Batman: Dark Patterns #12.

 

Rating 9.8/10

DC K.O. Knightfight #1 Review

 

Writer: Joshua Williamson

Artist: Dan Mora

Colorist: Tríona Farrell

Letterer: Tom Napolitano

Cover Artists: Dan Mora, Jonboy Meyers, Kaare Andrews & Fabrizio de Tommaso

Editors: James Reid & Rob Levin

Publisher: DC Comics

Price: $3.99/$4.99 Card Stock

Release Date: November 5, 2025

 

To prevent Darkseid from controlling the Heart of Apokolips growing inside our planet, the Justice League members descended to the Earth's core to fight for life, the universe, and everything. But Batman fell before the gladiatorial games even began. Did the world’s greatest detective have a backup plan? And how will the Justice League fare in his absence? Let’s leap into DC K.O. Knightfight #1 and see!

 

Story

The villains weren’t supposed to follow the Justice League. But like a bad penny, they found a way. Joker shot Batman in the back. With his last breath, Batman urged Superman to continue their plan.

 

In DC K.O. Knightfight #1, being Batman is wearing Bruce Wayne down. While he enjoys protecting Gotham, Bruce recognizes that he's not as young as he used to be. But he sees his proteges in action and takes pride in the legacies they have built. Dick Grayson has become Nightwing. Jason Todd is Red Hood. Tim Drake and Damian Wayne are distinguished Robins. Bruce is glad to see how they have developed. He may not be able to keep up with them. But they have become worthy heroes who also safeguard Gotham.

 

All this takes place before the contest. After Joker strikes him down, Bruce Wayne awakens in Gotham. But it's not the city he left. Before he can contact the Justice League Watchtower, a team of Robins attacks him. Tim and Damian aren't among them. Bruce doesn't recognize these Robins, but their movements are familiar. Even before he sees their leader, Bruce knows who trained them.

 

In Joshua Williamson's story, Dick Grayson has assumed the role of Batman. And he's not happy to see his mentor return. Dick has never heard about a fight at the Earth's core. Bruce's talk about a battle for Omega energy reminds Dick of what drove them apart.

 

The differences between Bruce and Dick aren't about who sees the world clearly in DC K.O. Knightfight #1. Dick has usurped Bruce’s legacy. He’s proud of what he’s built. But Dick values the organizations and systems he oversees, and he’s not about to let Bruce take that away from him.

 

Art

As Batman leaps into action, the Bat-Signal glows in the sky. Flames leap from a burning circus tent, while Nightwing, Red Hood, and Tim and Damian's Robins assist children and police officers. After Dan Mora shows Batman's proteges happily leaping into action, Bruce smiles.

 

Tríona Farrell shows Batman awakening in a futuristic city glowing with electrifying colors. Instead of his black-and-gray suit, Batman wears blues, purples, gray, yellow, and a hint of red. As Batman battles Robins across the rooftops, his combatants feature different combinations of red, black, yellow, and green. When Dick appears, he wears black and gray, adorned with a blue chest symbol. Dick's Nightwing-esque Batman suit is sleek, like Bruce's former one. Bruce's new Batsuit evokes the armor of a medieval knight. And the Bat-Signal glowing in the sky is blue and black, not yellow and black.

 

Amid Dan Mora's action-packed art and Tríona Farrell’s vivid colors, Tom Napolitano fills white dialogue balloons with black uppercase letters in DC K.O. Knightfight #1. Batman’s thoughts appear as white letters in black boxes with yellow outlines. After the Joker’s purple laughter fills the air, a gray pinging emerges from Batman's chest. When Batman awakens in Gotham, a hologram crackles before an R-shaped shuriken silences it. Thanks to DC Comics for sharing this story with us.

 

Now, let's take a look inside:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Final Thoughts

While Alpha energy enables birth and creativity, Omega energy is all about control, domination, and conquest. Batman conceived a way to become its ruler. But instead of becoming King Omega, Bruce Wayne awakens in a Gotham where Dick Grayson has usurped his role. And Dick refuses to share his power with his predecessor in DC K.O. Knightfight #1.

 

Rating 9.6/10