The Joker Presents: A Puzzlebox # 1 Cover A First Printing 2021 NM

The Joker Presents: A Puzzlebox #1 is the debut issue of a seven-part DC Comics miniseries released in August 2021. Written by Matthew Rosenberg with art by Jesús Merino and Joshua Hixon, the story is a "whodunit" framed as a series of interrogation room tales told by the Joker. 

Plot Summary

The GCPD raids a building, capturing a "murderer's row" of Gotham's most dangerous villains, including the Joker. Simultaneously, the body of the Riddler is discovered elsewhere in the city. While the other villains refuse to cooperate, the Joker—acting as a highly unreliable narrator—offers to tell Commissioner Jim Gordon and Detective Harvey Bullock exactly what happened. 

The mystery centers on a powerful alien artifact known as the Master Engine, a magical box left behind by the New Gods that the Riddler was supposedly hunting. The Joker's testimony consists of seemingly unconnected stories about his fellow inmates, each serving as a potential clue (or red herring) in a larger, chaotic plan. 

Key Series Details

• Narrative Style: The story is told through the lens of the Joker's interrogation, making it difficult for the GCPD (and the reader) to distinguish truth from lies.
• Format: Originally a Digital-First series on DC Universe Infinite, it was later released as a physical limited series.
• Continuity: It takes place outside the main DC continuity, allowing for unique character dynamics, such as Harley Quinn appearing as a villain and Jim Gordon still serving as Commissioner.
• Art Style: The primary interrogation scenes feature a "70s cop show" aesthetic.