Batman # 125 Cover A First Printing 2022 NM-

Batman #125 (2022) serves as the high-profile jumping-on point for DC Comics' flagship title, introducing the acclaimed creative duo of writer Chip Zdarsky and artist Jorge Jiménez. Published on July 5, 2022, this oversized milestone issue shifts Bruce Wayne into a dark psychological corner and sets the stage for years of subsequent continuity.

The Core Story: "Failsafe" Part 1

The main narrative finds Bruce Wayne deeply isolated, plagued by apocalyptic nightmares of a ruined Gotham City. The status quo shatters when Gotham's elite billionaires are systematically and brutally murdered.

While investigating the crime scene, Batman discovers the involvement of his long-time archenemy, the Penguin (Oswald Cobblepot). The encounter ends in an engineered tragedy: the Penguin frames Batman for his murder via a staged poisoning, directly triggering Failsafe—an unstoppable, mechanical countermeasure hidden deep within the Batcave, programmed to neutralize Batman if he ever commits homicide.

The Backup Story: "Two Birds, One Throne"

The issue features a secondary story illustrated by Belén Ortega. It follows Catwoman (Selina Kyle) navigating the immediate power vacuum left by the Penguin's apparent death. As Gotham’s criminal underworld erupts into a violent turf war over Cobblepot's vast estate, Selina attempts to intercept the bloodshed while hunting down the Penguin's secret heirs.

Key First Appearances & Impact

• Failsafe (Cameo): The issue marks the historic activation and debut of Failsafe, an antagonistic force that dominates the main Batman title for multiple story arcs.
• Executive Status Quo: The narrative officially strips Bruce Wayne of his remaining systemic cushions, isolating him from public resources and setting up a multi-issue global manhunt.