Absolute Batman #17, released on February 18, 2026, focuses on Batman's confrontation with a vengeful and mutated Absolute Poison Ivy after she is unleashed from the mysterious Ark-M facility.
Story Synopsis: "Absolute Poison Ivy Sinks Her Teeth Into Ark-M"
Dr. Pamela Isley has been transformed into a monstrous entity and is filled with hate and a desire for revenge against Gotham City and those who imprisoned her in the Ark-M facility. Batman must hunt her down and navigate a "labyrinth of leveled horrors" as he tries to save the city from the monster it helped create.
- Absolute Poison Ivy: This is the first full appearance and introduction of the Absolute Universe version of Poison Ivy. Early glimpses show her with longer hair and feather-like plants around her neck, but her true monstrous form is a central part of the story's horror.
- Ark-M Secrets: The issue delves into the origins and secrets of the enigmatic Ark-M facility, which has been experimenting on classic Batman villains like the Riddler, Penguin, Two-Face, and Killer Croc, turning them into victims.
- Joker's Machinations: While Batman deals with Poison Ivy's rampage, the Absolute Joker continues to stir in the shadows, with his plans beginning to coalesce as he finds a new ally, setting up future conflicts.
Creative Team
- Writer: Scott Snyder
- Artist: Eric Canete
- Colorist: Frank Martin
- Letterer: Clayton Cowles