Comics / Comic Reviews / DC Comics

Review: Nightwing #17

By Philip Schweier
March 15, 2017 - 07:28

Nightwing and Robin journey to France in search of Nightwing’s girlfriend Shawn, who may or may not be pregnant, but has most certainly been abducted by parties unknown. Thankfully, Nightwing has a very particular set of skills, acquired over a very long career. Skills that make Nightwing a – well, you get the idea.

Meanwhile, there is an evil doppleganger about, known as Deathwing, clad in one of Nightwing’s variant costumes (the red and black one). At the centerpiece of the issue is a fight scene between to the two Wings. But one of the story’s subtle layers, which I found genuinely appealing, is Damian Wayne’s obsession with claiming the role of heir to the Bat-mantle. Dick’s shares his thoughts on his standing within the bat family, and his feelings toward the other “sons,” just as Damian reveals his opinions of Dick.

Artwork is solid, and I enjoyed a veritable Multiverse of Dick Grayson variants, though my personal favorite was missing. Oh, well, you can’t have everything.

I’ve read a number of comments on Facebook groups regarding the latest development in Dick’s personal life. Is he actually going to be a daddy? We’ll see. It could be a red herring, or a plot point that may come to nothing. Or it could put Nightwing on a whole new path. Whether fans will buy into it is doubtful; much depends on the execution. Time will tell.

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12