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Review: Detective Comics #986

By Philip Schweier
August 8, 2018 - 05:42

At the end of last issue, Karma had kidnapped a group of children to lure Batman out into the open – and it’s worked. Like the Dark Knight he is, he’s girded for battle and ready to face his challenger. But Karma has an edge most of Batman’s foes don’t and it gives him a critical edge.

But Batman also has an advantage, in the form of his team: Barbara, Cassandra, Jefferson, someone named Duke, and Jefferson. However, I take issue with how much authority Jefferson has over the others, especially Barbara. I would expect Batgirl to sit higher in the pecking order of the DC Universe than Black Lightning. She certainly deserves to, in my opinion.

Overall, it’s an adequate story that helps pave the way to a return to Batman’s simpler roots (which I understand is on the way). It’s good but not great, because there are a few moments that are very good, while key plot points fall flat. For instance, the fate of the villain Karma is left rather open ended. I won’t spoil it for you other than to say he’s defeated, but either dead, escaped or incarcerated. It’s never revealed which.

Two issues ago I suggested there might be a resurrection of the original Outsiders, and this issue sees DC take a step closer to that. If the intent is to resurrect the original team – either a brief reunion in Detective Comics or as a prelude to a new ongoing series – I’m all for it. But if it’s going to be series of teases, I’d just as soon DC stop right now. I had enough of that kind of thing in high school.

Rating: 5/5

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12