Batman's adventures within the DC Universe are legendary, but sometimes, the Caped Crusader ventures beyond familiar territory, teaming up with heroes from other universes in crossovers that range from iconic to downright bizarre. These unique collaborations break down the walls between different pop culture realms, offering fans thrilling and unexpected narratives. Here, we celebrate the best and most intriguing Batman crossovers, focusing on stories where Batman takes center stage, distinct from broader team-ups like Justice League vs. Godzilla vs. Kong.
As two of the most iconic superheroes in the world, it was only a matter of time before Batman and Spider-Man crossed paths. Their 1995 collaboration was well worth the wait, highlighting the similarities in their tragic origins while pitting them against the sinister duo of the Joker and Carnage. Crafted by J.M. DeMatteis and Mark Bagley, this crossover feels like a seamless extension of '90s Spider-Man comics, sans the convoluted Clone Saga.
Buy DC vs. Marvel Omnibus on Amazon.
Spawn and Batman, both dark vigilantes with devoted followings, naturally pair well. Their initial crossover, featuring the talents of Frank Miller and Todd McFarlane, stands out as the best of their three collaborations. This dark and thrilling adventure is elevated by the creative synergy of its legendary contributors.
Buy Batman/Spawn: The Classic Collection on Amazon.
Since their 2011 reboot, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have been involved in numerous crossovers, but their encounter with Batman stands out. James Tynion IV and Freddie E. Williams II deliver a compelling story that explores the dynamic between the Batman family and the Turtles, culminating in a satisfying emotional bond between the Dark Knight and the Heroes in a Half Shell. This successful partnership led to two sequels and a 2019 animated movie.
Buy Batman/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1 (2025 Edition) on Amazon.
7. First Wave -------------First Wave transports us to the Golden Age of Batman, a time when the Caped Crusader was quite different. Brian Azzarello and Rags Morales bring this version of Batman into a universe filled with pulp heroes like Doc Savage and The Spirit. This engaging series leaves us wishing the Pulpverse had become a lasting part of DC's multiverse.
Buy First Wave on Amazon.
Given The Shadow's influence on Batman's creation, their crossover is fitting. Scott Snyder, Steve Orlando, and Riley Rossmo deliver a captivating narrative that begins with Batman investigating a murder linked to Lamont Cranston, sparking a thrilling partnership. Though the team didn't reunite for the sequel, The Shadow/Batman, it remains a worthy follow-up.
Buy Batman/The Shadow: The Murder Geniuses on Amazon.
Despite the waning success of the Predator films, the franchise thrived in comics, including three Batman crossovers. The first, penned by Dave Gibbons and illustrated by Andy and Adam Kubert, remains the standout. It follows Batman as he tracks a Yautja wreaking havoc in Gotham, delivering a gripping and atmospheric tale.
Buy Batman vs. Predator on Amazon.
Batman and Judge Dredd share a commitment to justice, but their first crossover reveals their stark differences. When Judge Death teams up with Scarecrow, these two icons must unite to save their cities. John Wagner and Simon Bisley bring a surreal and visually stunning narrative to life, making it a visually impressive Batman crossover.
Buy The Batman/Judge Dredd Collection on Amazon.
Though not widely known, Grendel's thematic resonance with Batman's world makes their crossover a compelling read. Matt Wagner's exploration of violence and vengeance complements Batman's ethos perfectly. Both the 1993 original and its 1996 sequel are engaging, leaving fans wishing Grendel were a permanent fixture in Batman's rogues gallery.
Buy Batman/Grendel: Devil’s Riddle on Amazon.
Warren Ellis and John Cassaday's Planetary series is a sci-fi masterpiece, and their crossover with Batman is exceptional. Elijah Snow's team investigates a killer in a Batman-less Gotham, leading to encounters with multiple versions of the Caped Crusader. This crossover celebrates Batman's rich history, blending seamlessly with the main series to create a memorable adventure.
Buy Batman/Planetary: The Deluxe Edition on Amazon.
Perhaps the most unexpected yet brilliant Batman crossover is with Elmer Fudd. This special, part of a series pairing DC heroes with Looney Tunes characters, reimagines Elmer as a tragic figure akin to Sin City's Marv. Tom King and Lee Weeks deliver a poignant yet humorous story, showcasing their prowess in storytelling and illustrating Batman's universe in a unique light.
Buy Batman by Tom King and Lee Weeks on Amazon.
What’s your favorite Batman crossover? Vote in our poll and let us know in the comments below.
AnswerSee ResultsFor more Batman fun, check out the top 10 Batman costumes of all time and the top 27 Batman comics and graphic novels.