Batman # 95 2020 NM

is a highly prominent comic book issue published by DC Comics on July 21, 2020, which officially kicks off the massive "Joker War" story arc. Written by James Tynion IV with high-octane artwork by Jorge Jiménez and colors by Tomeu Morey, the issue marks a definitive shift in the classic rivalry between the Dark Knight and the Clown Prince of Crime.

Plot & Key Events

• The Joker's New Motivation: Unlike past encounters where the Joker simply wanted to play an endless game with Batman, his motivation shifts toward a final, permanent victory to end their story once and for all.
• Seizing the Wayne Fortune: Having discovered Batman's true identity as Bruce Wayne, the Joker uses legal and financial manipulation—aided by his sinister lawyer, the Underbroker (Harlan Graves)—to seize the entire Wayne empire, fortune, and gadget cache to dismantle Bruce's legacy.
• The Monarch Theater: The Joker buys the Monarch Theater—the very location where Thomas and Martha Wayne spent their final moments alive—with Bruce's stolen money. He sets up a twisted, classic "show" filled with brainwashed Gotham citizens.
• A Vulnerable Dark Knight: Present-day Batman finds himself heavily outmatched, fighting his own stolen weapons and advanced Batmobiles. Flashbacks to his early days drive home that Batman is emotionally and strategically vulnerable because he no longer has Alfred Pennyworth around to anchor him.

Significance & Format

• Arc Placement: It is the official first chapter of the multi-issue "Joker War" crossover event that heavily altered the status quo of Gotham City.
• Key Characters: The issue prominently features Batman, Joker, Lucius Fox, Harvey Bullock, and the Joker's deadly new sidekick, Punchline (Alexis Kaye).