Batman's adventures within the DC Universe are legendary, but sometimes, the most exciting stories come from crossing over into other realms of pop culture. These crossovers not only refresh the narrative but also bring together fans from different universes for unique storytelling experiences. Here, we explore the top 10 Batman crossovers that have captivated readers with their creativity and unexpected pairings.
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Spider-Man and Batman
As two of the world's most iconic superheroes, it was only a matter of time before Batman and Spider-Man teamed up. Their 1995 crossover, crafted by Spider-Man veterans J.M. DeMatteis and Mark Bagley, delves into the shared tragic backstories of both heroes while pitting them against the menacing duo of the Joker and Carnage. This collaboration feels like a seamless extension of '90s Spider-Man comics, minus the complexities of the Clone Saga.
Buy DC vs. Marvel Omnibus on Amazon.
Spawn/Batman
Spawn and Batman, both dark vigilantes with devoted followings, naturally complement each other. The original crossover, featuring the talents of Frank Miller and Todd McFarlane, stands out as the best of their three collaborations. This pairing delivers a thrilling and appropriately dark adventure that fans of both characters will appreciate.
Buy Batman/Spawn: The Classic Collection on Amazon.
Batman/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Since their 2011 reboot, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have engaged in numerous crossovers, but their encounter with Batman, penned by James Tynion IV and illustrated by Freddie E. Williams II, is particularly memorable. This crossover not only entertains with its clash of personalities but also explores the emotional bond between Batman and the Turtles. The success of this series led to two sequels and an animated movie in 2019.
Buy Batman/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1 (2025 Edition) on Amazon.
7. First Wave -------------First Wave brings together the Golden Age Batman with other pulp heroes like Doc Savage and The Spirit, crafted by Brian Azzarello and Rags Morales. This unique series showcases a different side of Batman, one who wields guns, and offers a fun and engaging narrative that fans wish could have been a permanent fixture in DC's multiverse.
Buy First Wave on Amazon.
Batman/The Shadow: The Murder Geniuses
Given The Shadow's influence on Batman's creation, their crossover is a fitting tribute. In Batman/The Shadow, the Dark Knight investigates a murder linked to Lamont Cranston, leading to an intense team-up. The creative team of Scott Snyder, Steve Orlando, and Riley Rossmo delivers a compelling story that fans of both characters will enjoy.
Buy Batman/The Shadow: The Murder Geniuses on Amazon.
Batman Versus Predator
Despite the waning popularity of the Predator films, the comic crossovers thrived in the '90s. The first Batman Versus Predator, with a story by Dave Gibbons and art by Andy and Adam Kubert, remains the standout. It follows Batman as he tracks a Yautja through Gotham, creating a tense and atmospheric narrative that outshines its cinematic counterparts.
Buy Batman vs. Predator on Amazon.
Batman/Judge Dredd: Judgment on Gotham
Both Batman and Judge Dredd are committed to law and order, yet their first crossover reveals their stark differences. When Judge Death teams up with Scarecrow, these two heroes must unite despite their contrasting methods. The original series, with John Wagner's writing and Simon Bisley's striking art, is considered one of the best-looking Batman crossovers.
Buy The Batman/Judge Dredd Collection on Amazon.
Batman/Grendel
Matt Wagner's Grendel, with its focus on violence and vengeance, naturally aligns with Batman's themes. The 1993 and 1996 crossovers, both penned by Wagner, offer compelling narratives that make readers wish Grendel were a permanent fixture in Batman's world.
Buy Batman/Grendel: Devil's Riddle on Amazon.
Planetary/Batman: Night on Earth
Warren Ellis and John Cassaday's Planetary series is renowned for its innovative storytelling, and their Batman crossover is no exception. In Planetary/Batman, the team investigates a killer in a Batman-less Gotham, leading to encounters with various versions of the Caped Crusader. This crossover celebrates Batman's rich history and is a must-read for fans.
Buy Batman/Planetary: The Deluxe Edition on Amazon.
Batman/Elmer Fudd Special
Perhaps the most unexpected yet brilliant crossover, Batman/Elmer Fudd Special, blends the DC Universe with Looney Tunes in a way that's both hilarious and poignant. Tom King and Lee Weeks treat the premise with utmost seriousness, portraying Elmer Fudd as a tragic figure akin to Sin City's Marv. This unique approach earned the comic a perfect score in IGN's review.
Buy Batman by Tom King and Lee Weeks on Amazon.
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AnswerSee ResultsFor more Batman fun, check out the top 10 Batman costumes of all time and the top 27 Batman comics and graphic novels.