B
Benjamin Percy
Dark nights
The Nightmare Batmen have invaded Earth, forcing the Justice League, Teen Titans, and Suicide Squad to unite against them. As the Justice League searches for artifacts to combat the invasion, they face the Seven Dark Knights of the Dark Multiverse, twisted versions of Batman with the powers of other heroes. Meanwhile, Gotham City has been transformed into a nightmarish labyrinth, trapping heroes and anti-heroes alike, while the Justice League is ensnared in pocket worlds with their evil counterparts. Can they escape and stop the villainous mastermind Barbatos?
While Dark Nights: Metal is a major crossover event, it is designed to be accessible to new readers, with key concepts explained within the story. However, familiarity with the broader DC Universe and characters like Batman and the Justice League will enhance the reading experience.
Dark Nights: Metal introduces the concept of the Dark Multiverse, a collection of unstable realities, and features twisted versions of Batman, such as the Batman Who Laughs. Its blend of heavy metal aesthetics, cosmic horror, and a focus on the darker aspects of the DC Universe sets it apart.
The core Dark Nights: Metal series can be read on its own, but there are numerous tie-in issues and one-shots that expand on the story and characters. A comprehensive reading order typically involves the main series, the "Road to Metal" preludes, and various character-specific tie-ins.