Delving into the 'What If' Scenario in Batman's Universe

When we think of alternate storylines and 'what if' scenarios in the Batman universe, we often turn to the Elseworlds imprint. However, these stories are not as frequent or as deeply integrated into the main continuity as some other publishers' 'what if' series. This article explores the 'What If' stories from Detective Comics 347 and Elseworlds, shedding light on how these narratives enrich the Batman mythology.

The 'What If' in Detective Comics 347

One of the earliest and most notable 'what if' stories in the Batman universe is found in Detective Comics 347, dated January 1966, one of the entries in the Batman title series. This issue includes a story that transitions into a 'what if' scenario mid-bang. The narrative unfolds in the context of Rule 75, a typical contingency plan where Batman anticipates every eventuality to solve a case. The story sets up a situation where things deviate from the norm, leading to a surprising and different outcome.

This 'what if' scenario sees the author himself reflecting on the altered realities. In the true 'what if' spirit, the story diverges significantly from the traditional resolution where Batman overcomes the antagonists. Instead, the narrative takes a dramatic turn, showcasing a different path that the story could have followed. This approach allows readers to explore the potential ramifications of a different sequence of events.

The Rise of Elseworlds

For those seeking more comprehensive and structured 'what if' stories, DC Comics has a history with the Elseworlds imprint. This imprint was established in 1989 and quickly gained popularity with its imaginative and diverse stories. The first notable issue in this series was Gotham by Gaslight, a Steampunk version of Batman by artists Brian Augustyn and Mike Mignola. This story brought a unique and engaging twist to the classic hero, creating a distinct and memorable narrative.

Elseworlds went on to produce numerous stories, including the critically acclaimed "Superman: Red Son," where the Soviet Union takes over and redefines Superman's legacy, and "Superman/Batman: Generations," a tale of historical import that connected multiple eras of both characters. However, despite its initial success, the Elseworlds imprint eventually saw a decline in popularity due to its reliance on the collaboration of Roger Stern, a key figure in the series.

The Contrast with Other 'What If' Stories

In contrast to Elseworlds, the term 'what if' stories in the Batman universe is more loosely defined and not as consistently published. The What If series, for example, tends to focus more on the JLA timeline. These stories often delve into alternate histories of the Justice League and explore how different events might have shaped their collective destinies.

Some of the more notable 'what if' stories in the Batman universe include the Vampite Batman trilogy, which tells the tale of a vampire Batman and how his presence disrupts the regular course of Gotham. Similarly, the Soviet Superman in "Superman: Red Son" offers a compelling narrative of Superman's rise to power in a different world, showcasing the impact of his origins on the landscape of the DC universe.

While the Elseworlds imprint and the 'What If' stories in Detective Comics offer fascinating explorations of alternative realities, their rarity and structure serve to enrich the Batman universe. These narratives provide a window into how small changes can lead to dramatic shifts in the story, offering readers a chance to explore the complex and interconnected world of Batman beyond the mainstream continuity.

Whether you are a fan of the traditional storyline or enjoy the creatively altered narratives, the 'what if' scenarios in the Batman universe promise endless possibilities for exploration and imagination. These stories not only entertain but also contribute to the deep and rich tapestry that makes the Batman universe such a captivating subject for exploration.