The first issue of Absolute Batman was a smash hit and a strong opening salvo for Absolute universes. I’m happy to report that there was no sophomore slump in the second issue. Definitely Batman #2while lighter on action than the first issue, it’s an engaging exploration of the new setting and its characters.

Again we see this version of Bruce Wayne through the eyes of the soldier’s eyes Alfred Pennyworth. He admires the young vigilante’s technique as much as his apparent idealism. Pennyworth is also amazed by Absolute Batman’s flexibility and ability to improvise while planning ahead.

However, Issue #2 differs in that we get to see more of who the Absolute Batman is through other sources. This in turn. giving us glimpses of other familiar faces and how they’ve changed. Harvey Bullock, for example, is still a reliable but unshaven cop. In this world, however, he’s a beat cop rather than a detective and buff rather than fat. Yet he still needs a shave, despite his shaved head.

Absolute Batman #2 introduces classic Gotham Villains

The highlight of the issue is a poker game, where Absolute Batman hangs out with his childhood vamps for the first time in ages. However, this is a ruse to get their input into his investigation. Scott Snyder is clearly having fun putting new twists on the classic characters. What’s most interesting here, though, is how little Batman villains have changed beyond now being Bruce Wayne’s friends.

Harvey Dent is still two-sided, albeit as an assistant at the Public Prosecutor’s Office. Oswald Cobblepot is still a fixer who politely describes his business model as “atypical”. Edward Nygma is still a smug know-it-all who can’t help but show off his cleverness. Killer Crocnow a gym owner with dreams of running a reptile-focused pet store, is the most changed.

One thing about Absolute Batman that remains unchanged, however, is the excellent artwork. Nick Dragotta turns out to be the best work of his career so far. Of particular note is his design for the new Batmobile, which appears to have been rebuilt from a dump truck.

Absolute Batman #2 is just as solid a read as the first issue. I’d suggest rushing to the comic shop to grab a copy, but it’s reportedly already sold out at the retail level. Rest assured, however, that the inevitable reprint will be well worth the wait.

Absolute Batman #2 is now available at chain stores everywhere.