Are you one of the countless fans eagerly awaiting Robert Pattinson's return as Batman in the sequel to The Batman? The wait until 2027 might feel like an eternity, but fear not—DC Comics has delivered the perfect antidote to your Bat-cravings with Batman: Dark Patterns. But here's where it gets controversial: while Matt Reeves' film redefined the Caped Crusader as a brooding detective, Dark Patterns takes that concept even further, plunging readers into a gritty, horror-tinged world that might just outdo the movie in terms of darkness and intrigue. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just a detective story; it’s a psychological journey that forces Batman to question his very purpose in Gotham.
Written by Dan Watters and stunningly illustrated by Hayden Sherman, Dark Patterns is set during Bruce Wayne’s third year as Batman. The 12-issue series, which concluded in November, is divided into four gripping story arcs: We Are the Wounded, The Voice of the Tower, Pareidolia, and The Child of Fire. Each arc introduces a new, gruesome murder for Batman to solve, blending procedural crime-solving with a haunting atmosphere that feels like Se7en meets The Long Halloween. Unlike other Batman comics, this series strips away the spectacle, focusing instead on the raw, unfiltered detective work that defined Pattinson’s portrayal.
What makes Dark Patterns stand out? For starters, it’s not afraid to get its hands dirty. The violence is visceral, the mysteries are complex, and the tone is relentlessly grim. Here’s the bold part: while other Batman stories often rely on iconic villains like the Joker or Penguin, Dark Patterns introduces lesser-known foes and even reimagines them in unexpected ways. Take Scarface, the talking dummy, who in this series becomes the mastermind behind a Die Hard-esque thriller set in a haunted tenement building. It’s bizarre, it’s brilliant, and it’s unlike anything you’ve seen in Batman comics before.
But let’s talk about the art—because Hayden Sherman’s work is nothing short of breathtaking. With a style reminiscent of Tim Sale’s iconic The Long Halloween, Sherman’s use of blue and yellow highlights creates a moody, cinematic feel. His panel layouts are dynamic, often breaking traditional structures to keep your eyes moving. For instance, in one issue, the shards of breaking glass become the panels themselves, adding a layer of immersion that’s both innovative and unsettling. Colorist Tríona Farrell complements this with a palette that swings from fiery oranges to ominous greens, amplifying the story’s emotional weight.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: Dark Patterns isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for the feel-good, action-packed adventures of the Bat-family or the revolutionary vigilante seen in Absolute Batman, this isn’t it. Dark Patterns is for those who crave something darker, something that forces you to question whether Batman’s methods truly make a difference in Gotham. It’s a story that doesn’t shy away from the moral ambiguity of its protagonist, and that’s what makes it so compelling.
So, here’s the question: Does Batman’s relentless pursuit of justice do more harm than good? Is he a force for change, or just another symptom of Gotham’s corruption? Dark Patterns doesn’t provide easy answers, and that’s precisely why it’s worth reading. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of The Batman or just someone who appreciates a well-crafted mystery, this series is a must-read.
All 12 issues of Batman: Dark Patterns are available now, with a collected edition set for release in March 2026. Trust us—this is one pattern you’ll want to follow. But don’t just take our word for it. Dive in, and let us know: does Dark Patterns outshine The Batman for you? Let the debate begin in the comments!
