Absolute Batman 2025 Annual #1 is a 56-page oversized anthology released on October 29, 2025. It explores the early lore of the Absolute Universe's version of Bruce Wayne through three distinct stories from prominent guest creators.
Core Stories & Plot
The issue focuses on the formative days of this "working-class" Batman, bridging gaps in his origin.
- "His Way" (Batmobile Origin): Written and illustrated by Daniel Warren Johnson, this 30-page story details how Bruce Wayne acquired his massive, "dump truck-like" Batmobile. It features a gritty confrontation where Batman protects a neighborhood from extremists, showcasing his more brutal, systemic-focused war on crime.
- "Sanctuary": By James Harren, this 16-page tale is told from the perspective of Black Mask’s Party Animals. It follows a group of goons who invade a private home seeking refuge, only to find themselves hunted by Batman in a sequence that emphasizes the horror and dread he inspires.
- "Let's Learn About Bats!": A two-page short by Meredith McClaren that blends real-world bat facts with sightings of Batman throughout Gotham, illustrating how his presence has begun to change the city's spirit.