Absolute Batman: Ark-M Special # 1 Cover B Second Printing Chew Variant 2026 BN

Absolute Batman: Ark-M Special #1 is a one-shot comic book from DC Comics that explores the dark, Gothic horror origins of Arkham Asylum within the Absolute Universe. Originally published on January 7, 2026, a second printing was released on March 18, 2026. 

Creative Team

• Writers: Scott Snyder and Frank Tieri
• Artist: Joshua Hixson
• Colorist: Roman Stevens
• Letterer: Clayton Cowles 

Story & Plot Details

The issue serves as a "haunting psychological thriller" that reframes the history of Gotham's most infamous institution. 

• The Origins: Set primarily in 1945, the story is narrated by Amadeus Arkham, who is in the process of selling the asylum property. It details his tragic past as an orphan and his eventually corrupted mission to help Gotham's mentally ill.
• Ark-M Secrets: The "M" in the title refers to a secret prison laboratory owned by the Joker. The issue reveals that Ark-M rose from the ashes of the original asylum to house brutal experiments.
• The Absolute Joker: The story introduces a terrifying new version of the Joker. It suggests a connection to Jack the Ripper through a patient named Jack Doe, but ultimately reveals that the "Absolute Joker" is a different, more monstrous entity named Jack Grim.
• Connections: The issue provides context for why this universe's Batman was previously seen being injected with a Venom-like serum in the main Absolute Batman series.