Updated: August 20, 2026

Batman has often been portrayed as something of an urban legend throughout his long history. Gothamites have envisioned him as anything from a Man-Bat-like being to a robot. While comic fans and creators know those are exaggerations, most would admit there is undeniable flexibility to the Batman legend.

Perhaps the best examples of Batman’s malleability exist in DC Comics’ 1990s Elseworlds imprint, where the Caped Crusader was portrayed as an actual knight, a 19th-century detective, a Russian dissident, a vampire, and even a full-time Green Lantern. These reimagining resonated with many readers, including artists who have drawn their own take on these versions or have created “Elseworlds” Batmen of their own.