Batman's adventures within the DC Universe are iconic, but sometimes fans crave a fresh perspective. The thrill of seeing Batman team up with characters from other universes has led to some of the most memorable and unexpected crossovers in comic book history. These stories not only break the mold but also showcase Batman in new, exciting ways alongside characters like Spider-Man, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and even Elmer Fudd. Here, we focus on the top Batman crossovers where the Dark Knight himself takes center stage, excluding broader team-ups like Justice League vs. Godzilla vs. Kong.
The Top 10 Best Batman Crossovers of All Time
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Spider-Man and Batman
As two of the world's most beloved superheroes, it was only a matter of time before Batman and Spider-Man crossed paths. Their 1995 crossover, crafted by Spider-Man legends J.M. DeMatteis and Mark Bagley, was well worth the wait. This story delves into the shared tragic pasts of these heroes, culminating in a thrilling confrontation with the sinister duo of Joker and Carnage. It feels like a seamless extension of '90s Spider-Man comics, minus the Clone Saga drama.
Buy DC vs. Marvel Omnibus on Amazon.
Spawn/Batman
Spawn and Batman, both dark vigilantes with dedicated followings, are a natural pairing. The original crossover stands out due to its stellar creative team: Frank Miller, known for The Dark Knight Returns, and Spawn creator Todd McFarlane. Their collaboration results in a gripping and atmospheric team-up that honors the essence of both characters.
Buy Batman/Spawn: The Classic Collection on Amazon.
Batman/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Since their reboot at IDW in 2011, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have engaged in numerous crossovers, but their team-up with Batman is a standout. Written by Batman expert James Tynion IV and illustrated by Freddie E. Williams II, this crossover beautifully blends the worlds of the Dark Knight and the Heroes in a Half Shell. The clash of personalities and the emotional bonds forged between Batman and the Turtles make for a compelling read. The success of this story led to sequels and even a 2019 animated movie.
Buy Batman/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1 (2025 Edition) on Amazon.
7. First Wave -------------First Wave brings back the Golden Age Batman, a version markedly different from the modern iterations. Brian Azzarello and Rags Morales weave Batman into a universe alongside pulp heroes like Doc Savage and The Spirit. This unique crossover not only entertains but also highlights the potential for a broader Pulpverse within DC's multiverse.
Buy First Wave on Amazon.
Batman/The Shadow: The Murder Geniuses
Without The Shadow, there might never have been a Batman. This crossover, penned by Scott Snyder and Steve Orlando with art by Riley Rossmo, explores the deep connection between these two avengers of the night. As Batman investigates a murder, he crosses paths with Lamont Cranston, leading to a thrilling and complex team-up.
Buy Batman/The Shadow: The Murder Geniuses on Amazon.
Batman Versus Predator
Even as the Predator movie series struggled, the comic crossover thrived. The first Batman Versus Predator, with a story by Dave Gibbons and art by Andy and Adam Kubert, remains the best. It follows Batman as he tracks a Yautja wreaking havoc in Gotham, delivering a tense and atmospheric narrative that outshines its cinematic counterparts.
Buy Batman vs. Predator on Amazon.
Batman/Judge Dredd: Judgment on Gotham
Both Batman and Judge Dredd are dedicated to law and order, but their methods clash dramatically in this crossover. When Judge Death teams up with Scarecrow, these two must navigate their differences to save Gotham. The original story, with John Wagner's writing and Simon Bisley's striking art, is a visual and narrative feast.
Buy The Batman/Judge Dredd Collection on Amazon.
Batman/Grendel
Matt Wagner's Grendel, with its focus on violence and vengeance, aligns perfectly with Batman's themes. Both the 1993 original and its 1996 sequel are compelling reads, showcasing Batman's encounters with Grendel's Hunter Rose and his futuristic successor, Grendel-Prime. These stories leave fans wishing Grendel were a permanent fixture in Batman's world.
Buy Batman/Grendel: Devil's Riddle on Amazon.
Planetary/Batman: Night on Earth
Warren Ellis and John Cassaday's Planetary series is a sci-fi masterpiece, and their Batman crossover is a highlight. As Elijah Snow and his team investigate a killer in a Batman-less Gotham, they encounter various incarnations of the Dark Knight. This story celebrates Batman's rich history and integrates seamlessly with the Planetary narrative.
Buy Batman/Planetary: The Deluxe Edition on Amazon.
Batman/Elmer Fudd Special
Perhaps the most surprising and brilliant Batman crossover is with Elmer Fudd. This special, part of the DC/Looney Tunes mash-up line, takes a serious approach to the pairing, resulting in a tragic yet hilarious story. Tom King and Lee Weeks craft a narrative where Elmer Fudd is a somber figure akin to Sin City's Marv, earning a perfect 10 in our IGN review.
Buy Batman by Tom King and Lee Weeks on Amazon.
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AnswerSee ResultsFor more Batman fun, explore the top 10 Batman costumes of all time and the top 27 Batman comics and graphic novels.