Written by Fabian Nicieza.
Art by Don Kramer; J. Calafiore; Mark McKenna; Steve Wands; & JD Smith.
Cover Art by José Ladrönn.
SUMMARY:
Released by DC Comics for July 2009, this one-shot is self-titled. With Bruce Wayne’s Batman nowhere to be found, there is a criminal underworld uprising in Gotham City. With Tim Drake hospitalized and Nightwing searching for an unhinged Jason Todd, it is up to Barbara “Oracle” Gordon to assume tactical command. Hugo Strange and the Deuce brothers have brazenly set up an illicit gambling racket. Their betting game is: which of three kidnapping victims will Oracle’s squadron rescue in time and leave the other two to grisly fates?
Pitting wits and technological know-how vs. Strange, Oracle deploys two teams: Huntress & Batgirl and Misfit; Ragman; & Manhunter in a literal race with the clock. Among their adversaries is a trio of Batman impostors. Ultimately, Strange is challenging whoever the new Batman is. Oracle’s united forces must provide the next best thing.
Note: Oracle’s network includes Nightwing (verbal cameo only); Tim Drake’s Robin (no appearance); Black Canary; Huntress; Cassandra Cain’s Batgirl; Ragman; Metamorpho; Kate Spencer’s Manhunter; Knight & Squire; Wildcat; Misfit; Lady Blackhawk; Man-Bat; Spoiler; Grace; & El Gaucho. Appearing in a cameo, Catwoman is an unofficial member.
REVIEW:
Essentially, this one-shot is a Bat-spinoff crossover bonanza where a seasoned Oracle easily wins the MVP. Overcoming a blah cover image, this issue’s art squad consistently delivers excellent visuals. More so, Fabian Nicieza conjures up an intriguing plot where multiple Bat-allies must equal one Dark Knight to thwart Strange’s multi-tiered sicko scheme.
Suffice to say, Battle for the Cowl: The Network # 1 is well-played for what it meant to do.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
Dan DiDio’s “DC Nation” column includes a sneak cover peek at Batman: Battle for the Cowl # 3.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7 Stars
