Unlike some of week one’s comics, Batwing delivers exactly what the “New 52” promised. Fresh art, modern storytelling, and a minority hero without any “old story” baggage. This is a true #1 issue.
Bruce Wayne has equipped an African police officer with the tech and information he needs to fight crime “in the most tumultuous region on earh.” We see a little of the original Batman in the story. But all the shots are being called by Batwing, for better or for worse. I wouldn’t want Batman overshadowing Batwing this early in the story. In true “bat” fashion a mystery is afoot involving missing African heroes. Will Batwing be Africa’s greatest detective? He better be if he wants to defeat the monster known as Massacre.
We get a taste of David Zamvimbi’s (Batwing) world in this first issue. He wants to help, the police force is useless, and he feels its so corrupt its almost unredeemable.
Even with the WayneTech and the guidance of Batman the inexperience of Batwing is his biggest obstacle. I really look forward to the mistakes he will undoubtedly make and the ways he overcomes them.
The art is beautiful despite artist Ben Olivers’ apparent armor fetish (check out the interview in the back of the issue). You don’t see the majesty of Africa in this issue. Its all blood and guts and city. A perfect fit for a Bat-Family book.
Overall, an excellent addition to the DCU. And if the last page doesn’t grab you in and have you wanting more then this book probably isn’t for you.