June should be a damn exciting month! There’s a lot of changes taking place with current titles, and quite a few new title as well! And if you thought this wasn’t enough newness, there’s more to come down the line! Unless something has changed, Batman Eternal: Year Two is still in the pipeline – one can only hope that it ends up being better than how this year is wrapping up – and Peter J. Tomasi has sited that he has a new project launching in October, and another project launching in 2016. Now, it’s highly possible that one of these projects is Batman Eternal, but I could be wrong.
Another great feature gracing the month of June, are the Joker variant covers! There are 25 Joker variant covers total. After all of the solicitations, you’ll see I’ve provided the variant covers for each of the books we cover, along with a nice little Best Joker Variant Cover poll! Make sure you vote!
Alright, if you’re still with me, below you’ll find the solicitations for each issue, as well as the cover art (if DC has released it). You’ll notice that I changed up the format a little to list each title based on its release date. If I’m being completely honest, I’m mainly doing this to help me identify books that have been pulled forward or pushed back when I’m writing the Upcoming Comics posts. As a reminder, I’m not putting the talent credits in this post because there’s already a ton of information here. But you know me… I can’t post anything without adding my two cents, so you’ll see some of my randomness for a few titles. Make sure you give me a piece of your mind in the comments as well! I want to hear what you’re excited about, worried about, your predictions, etc… If you have something to say, I want to know!
June 3rd
Bat-Mite #1
Bat-Mite is here to fix the DC Universe – one hero at a time! Convinced that he’s the imp that put Batman on the map, he’s spreading his expertise all over the DC Universe, eager to boost the careers of heroes he thinks need his “help.” Don’t miss the start of this six-issue all-ages miniseries!
This could be a ton of fun… or a complete and utter mess… We’ll just have to wait and see. I’m hoping for another fun surprise like Lil’ Gotham. One can hope, right?
Batman Arkham Knight #5
One of Batman’s deadliest enemies is back and more powerful than ever! That’s right – it’s Bane, who’s now leading a small army of followers! Can the Dark Knight stop this brilliant behemoth from claiming Gotham City as his own?
Batman Beyond #1
At last, Batman Beyond gets his own ongoing series in THE definitive future of the DCU! But this isn’t the Beyond you think you know! With the Justice League missing and without Bruce to guide him, this new Batman will need to explore this bizarre world on his own while fighting to raise humanity from an opponent that’s already won.
Hmm… Just hmmm…
Justice League of America #1
It’s massive widescreen JUSTICE LEAGUE action and adventure from superstar writer/artist Bryan Hitch! In this extra-sized debut issue, the League comes up against an armada of aliens heading for Earth that claims to be a peaceful religious tribe. But something sinister is lurking in their ranks…something with ties to ancient Krypton!
When I first saw the cover of JLA, all I could wonder was why it had the same cast as the regular Justice League… It just seemed like a waste of potential characters. And then I wondered about the continuity, and if it would exist within continuity… well let me go ahead and tell you, the writers of each Justice League book are saying separate things. Bryan Hitch is claiming that the book is in continuity, and lives in the same world as Justice League, but tells separate stories from other times… While Johns mentions in an interview that JLA is not in continuity and is just doing its own thing… Good job guys! Honestly, if it’s enjoyable, then I’ll read it. And this book is supposed to feature new villains rather than existing villains, so that could really work in DC’s favor.
June 10th
Batman #41
The all-new Batman makes his debut! Who is he, and what happens next? Find out here as a new era begins in Gotham City!
We had an article about this on the site… I’m honestly not too crazy about the idea, but that doesn’t mean I think this will be bad. It’s more-so a fact that I like my Batman universe to be grounded, and this seems to be stepping away from that. I’m 90% certain that isn’t Bruce, so that’s something to consider. I predicted that this “Batman” would be tied to some form of authority, and after seeing the Detective Comics cover, I think I’m right. Regardless, I’d really like for Snyder to stop trying to change the status quo, and just tell a good story. To date, I still think his best work is Black Mirror.
Batman/ Superman #21
The epic new storyline “TRUTH” continues! In this chapter, what are the consequences of a bond broken?
The “TRUTH” arc will be covered in Action Comics, Superman, and Superman/ Wonder Woman as well… so it looks like it’ll play a big part in Superman’s re-launch. We typically don’t cover these books, but I’ll make sure we figure something out by June IF you would like us to cover this full arc.
Catwoman #41
She’s still Gotham’s queen of crime – but now, in order to work all the angles, Selina Kyle is back as Catwoman!
I told you to be patient! Selina is back as Catwoman, and I CAN’T WAIT to see how Valentine writes that side of her. If you haven’t been reading the current arc, I strongly advise that you pick it up before jumping into this new arc! You’ll need the foundation that’s been built.
Detective Comics #41
Following the events of “Endgame,” get ready to ride with the GCPD in a whole new city! Harvey Bullock is leading a Bat task force, but what are his duties, and can he be trusted? And what kind of welcome awaits his new partner, Renee Montoya?
Renee!!! As I mentioned, it looks like this “new Batman” is tied to some form of authority. I’m finding it hard to get excited for this creative time though. They can’t seem to close their stories well, which is really disappointing considering how strong their set-up is. And on another note, I find it interesting that DC is releasing Batman and Detective Comics during the same week.
Earth 2 Society #1
The survivors of Earth-2’s war with Apokolips find themselves on a new world, but can Green Lantern, Power Girl, a new Batman and the other heroes of Earth-2 create a new world that’s better than the last, or will their interference and good intentions doom this world, just like the old one?
There’ve been quite a few questions pertaining to this title due to the current state of Earth 2. Well, don’t be too concerned, because it looks like most of the characters are crossing over. There is a new Batman, and I’m about 90% positive it’s Dick Grayson. Daniel Wilson described this book as having a more hopeful tone, but described it as an emotional journey for all of the characters – telling its stories by using a “Lost” type of approach through flashbacks and flash forwards.
Gotham Academy #7
Special guest student Damian Wayne drops by the academy, and he is not pleased to meet his new classmates!
Oh. My. God. I can’t wait! This reminds me of that issue of Batgirl prior to the New 52, where Damian went to school with Stephanie! I’m sure we’ll see some of the same gags, but it’ll be completely worth it!
Harley Quinn #17
They’re here – the Gang of Harleys has arrived! Because the world demanded more Harley Quinn, Harley has answered the call – will a dozen more Harleys do the trick? Meet Carli Quinn, Harley Queen, HanukQuinn, and many, many, MANY more in a story that will have your sides splitting!
Ha! Look at the cover! They’re already making a joke of We Are Robin and it hasn’t been released yet! Hopefully the creative team isn’t trying to tell us something…
Injustice: Gods Among Us Year 4 #3
Having suffered some heavy losses, Batman sets out to recruit new allies, including and Aquaman and…Lex Luthor? Meanwhile, Harley Quinn returns to Green Arrow’s abandoned hideout with a special prisoner, and an army of Amazon warriors pays a visit to the Hall of Justice. Plus, there’s a possible new ally on the scene: Batgirl!
Batgirl?!? I’m in!
New Suicide Squad #9
An unstable, violent group has broken away from the League of Assassins! Only the Suicide Squad stands a chance of stopping them – if they’re willing to get even more unstable and violent!
If we weren’t continuing with the current writer, I would say that this could be exciting based on the solicitation, but I have NO FAITH that this book will actually deliver.
Red Hood/ Arsenal #1
These brothers in arms face off against incredible odds while burning their way through the underbelly of the DC Universe – and it’s only a matter of time until they get gunned down in return!
I’m not a fan of Lobdell, and he’s continuing as the writer for Jason and Roy, but I’ll probably give this a shot… Unless there ends up being more space monsters and stuff. If that’s the case, then I’m going to bounce out rather quickly.
June 17th
Harley Quinn & Powergirl #1
Hey, remember the panel gutter between panels 3 and 4 of page 20 of HARLEY QUINN #12? What? You DON’T? It’s only, like, the most memorable panel gutter of the twenty-first century. Well, either way, have we got the miniseries for you, in which the full tale of that momentous and momentary pause can be told!
It’s a cosmic adventure beyond your wildest imaginings: Power Girl and Harley Quinn, stranded in a forgotten dimension, on the homeworld of the amorous warlord Vartox! They’ll sacrifice anything they have to in order to get home…except their dignity! Kidding! That’ll be the first thing to go.
Yeah… I’m not sure how I feel about this. I’m not surprised to see this title – DC is going to ride the Harley wave as long as they can
Infinite Crisis: Fight for the Multiverse #12
As the Gaslight Earth spins madly out of control, Superman and Mecha Superman struggle to eliminate the deadly Earth Engine. Then as Gaslight Vandal Savage turns one hero against another, Gaslight Luthor must make a fateful decision. Will he ultimately prove himself to be a hero or a villain?
Justice League #41
The critically acclaimed team of Geoff Johns and Jason Fabok present the much anticipated, extra-sized first chapter of “DARKSEID WAR”! When the Justice League investigate a series of unexplained murders on Earth, it leads them to the frontlines of a war unlike any the DC Universe has ever seen – a battle between the two most powerful villains in existence: Darkseid and the Anti-Monitor! Meet Darkseid’s daughter – a mysterious force of evil with a bizarre connection to the Justice League! Plus: The horrible secret of Superwoman’s baby! The ultimate temptation of Batman! Lex Luthor vs. Superman – no holds barred! New villains! New allies! And so much more in the DC Event that has been building since JUSTICE LEAGUE #1!
Oh yeah!!! I’m really looking forward to this! Andrew’s review of Forever Evil reminded me about how many loose ends were still out there, and I started wondering when they were going to address some of these issues. I’m glad to see that these characters are circling back around.
Robin: Son of Batman #1
The son of a Bat and a Demon, Damian al Ghul has set out to forge his own destiny – and atone for the shameful Year of Blood! Will he be aided or hindered by the behemoth Goliath? And what mysterious legacy trails behind him? Join writer/artist Patrick Gleason as he chronicles the globe-hopping adventures of ROBIN: SON OF BATMAN!
You would probably think that my love for Damian would make me extremely excited for this title, but if I’m being honest… I’m pretty hesitant. Why? For one, I’m not too sure how I feel about Damian’s super powers yet, and I’m assuming he still has them here considering he’s keeping Goliath under control. Another aspect that concerns me is that this is written by Pat Gleason, and I only know him for his art… I’m not sure how good his writing skills are. AND, most importantly, while I love Damian for being a little snot, what really makes his character for me is his relationship with Bruce. There are numerous moments where Damian shows just how caring he really is underneath the tough talk and mayhem. I’m afraid that humanity won’t translate well with him on his own…
Secret Six #3
Her name is Strix. What is her secret?!
Hey! This looks familiar! I’m glad they’re slowing down so this book can actually get a chance to develop!
Teen Titans Go #10
After responding to an ad in a comic book, Beast Boy is the proud owner of a brand new pair of Hypno-Specs – and he’s not afraid to use them!
June 24th
Batgirl #41
There’s a new Batman in town…and that spells bad news for Barbara Gordon! She’s already got enough upheaval in her life, with her roommate Frankie in on her biggest secret…and now she’s looking to get even more involved in Batgirl’s business!
I’m already on the fence with this title… add in the “all new” Batman, and I’m honestly leaning more towards the “I might drop this book” side of the fence…
Batman ’66 #24
The guest team of writer Ray Fawkes (BATMAN ETERNAL, CONSTANTINE) and artist Jon Bogdanove (SUPERMAN: THE MAN OF STEEL) bring back Marsha, Queen of Diamonds, for another bejeweled bout with the Dynamic Duo. When she strikes at a gala ball for Gotham City’s elite, will even guests Bruce Wayne and Dick Grayson fall under her spell?
Gotham by Midnight #6
The Midnight Shift is in danger from both its members and the rest of the GCPD! In a deadly new Gotham City, does the paranormal really still pose a threat? As the task force struggles to rebuild after their tragic loss, their only weapon against the supernatural and Internal Affairs both might be in the form of attorney Kate Spencer. Ray Fawkes and new series artist Juan Ferreyra are ready to take Jim Corrigan and his motley crew on the adventure of their lives – or afterlives!
Grayson #9
Everything changes as Helena takes over SPYRAL! Plus: Grayson gets a new partner!
This seemed like a natural progression after the last issue. I hope we still get quite a bit of interaction between Dick and Helena though, they’ve been the anchor of this book. And maybe we’ll get to see more of Helena on her own… perhaps some Katherine Kane as well (I’m assuming that was her in the previous issue.) No matter what, I’ll be reading this book! It’s probably my favorite title at the moment.
Injustice: Gods Among Us Year 4 #4
The Gods have decided that Superman must step down as ruler of the Earth and Wonder Woman finds herself at odds with her fellow Amazonians. She demands a “judgment by combat” with one champion from each side. But when the Gods select her to fight on their behalf, how can she possibly battle Superman to the death?
Justice League 3001 #1
Travel even deeper into the future than before with the all-new JUSTICE LEAGUE 3001! They’ve managed to become the World’s Greatest Heroes of the 30th century, but with legions of foes gunning for them, can they stay alive long enough to see the year 3002?
Teen Titans #9
On the run with Superboy, the Titans must uncover the truth behind the Boy of Steel’s crimes – or they all might end up serving time with their former teammate.
I honestly feel like this book will finally start taking off now that it seems to have a sense of purpose! One can hope, right?
We Are Robin #1
Spinning out of the pages of BATMAN! The teenagers of Gotham City have adopted the “R” and made it their own. A new Robin? No, HUNDREDS of new Robins! Don’t miss the start of this new series from rising star writer Lee Bermejo (JOKER, SUICIDERS), who also provides the covers!
There isn’t too much information on this book yet. It has been confirmed that it will star Duke Thomas (the kid whose family saved Bruce and nursed him to health in Zero Year, and had has family killed by the Joker recently in Endgame. It looks as though this book will include quite a bit of racial diversity, and focus on a group of passionate teenagers that ban together to start a movement in the streets of Gotham. It’s also written by Lee Bermejo, who is known for Batman: Noel, so I consider that to be a positive.
Noteworthy Releases:
Action Comics #41
The epic new storyline “TRUTH” begins! For Superman, there’s no more holding back!
Superman/ Wonder Woman #18
The epic new storyline “TRUTH” continues! As the pressure mounts, a relationship is tested!
Superman #41
The epic new storyline “TRUTH” continues with the debut of the amazing new creative team of new writer Gene Luen Yang (American Born Chinese) and continuing artists John Romita Jr. and Klaus Janson! What will happen when the big secret is revealed?
These are the other three titles and solicitations for the “TRUTH” arc that will be featured in Batman/ Superman.
Black Canary #1
Dinah Lance hits the road! After years as a soldier and vigilante, the LAST place Dinah saw herself is on stage…but she’s quickly learning she’d die to protect the gang of misfits she’s fallen into. And she just might have to – for some reason, the newly rechristened band Black Canary seems to be a magnet for trouble…and Dinah’s not gonna believe it when she finds out the reason why! Martial arts, super-spies, and rock ‘n’ roll combine, from Brenden Fletcher (BATGIRL) and Annie Wu (Hawkeye)!
Dinah gets her own book, spinning out of Batgirl! I love Black Canary, and I’m glad she’s getting her own book, but I really don’t know if I’m crazy about the whole band thing. Anyway, at the moment I’m not sure if we’ll be reviewing this book. If you have strong feelings either way, sound off in the comments section.
Midnighter #1
Spinning out of GRAYSON comes a solo series starring the man who can predict your every move… but no one will be able to predict what he’ll do next! A theft at the God Garden has unleashed a wave of dangerous biotech weapons on the world, and Midnighter intends to put that genie back in the bottle by any means necessary. But something else was stolen from the Garden as well…the secret history of Lucas Trent, the man Midnighter once was!
I think the biggest challenge this book might face, is that I don’t think a number of readers view Midnighter as a likeable character… Because of that, I’m curious to see the reaction towards this. I’m personally excited, and look forward to it, but I could be one of the few.
Section 8 #1
The greatest super heroes of all time, unseen since the end of the hit series HITMAN, have returned for the greatest super hero story ever told!
Batman is featured, so I’m listing it. This book breaks out from Hitman – which I honestly know nothing about – so somebody let me know if I should be excited, or if this really is an odd pick for a book…
Starfire #1
From the writers of the outrageous smash hit HARLEY QUINN comes former Outlaw Starfire in her all-new ongoing series! She’s an alien warrior princess trying to find peace on Earth, and she’ll fight anyone and anything to get it!
In my opinion, she never fit with Red Hood and the Outlaws. Maybe this book will make me enjoy her again…
JOKER VARIANT COVERS:
Batgirl #41 by Rafael Albuquerque (DC has pulled this cover due to complaints, but I personally think it’s a damn good cover, and should earn some recognition!
Batman #41 Sean Murphy & Matt Hollingsworth
Batman/ Superman #21 by Jock
Catwoman #41 by Javier Pulido
Detective Comics #41 by Patrick Gleason & John Kalisz
Gotham Academy #7 by Craig Rousseau
Gotham by Midnight #6 by John Van Fleet
Grayson #9 by Dave Johnson
Harley Quinn #17 by Eduardo Risso
Justice League #41 by David Finch, Jonathan Glapion, & Brad Anderson
Justice League of America #1 by Howard Porter & Hifi
New Suicide Squad #9 by Jim Lee & Alex Sinclair
Secret Six #3 by Dan Jurgens, Danny Miki, & Alex Sinclair
Teen Titans #9 by Scott McDaniel
