Written by Scott Snyder, pencils by Greg Capullo, ink by Danny Miki, colours by Fco Plascencia and letters by Steve Wanos.

This is the second issue in the much maligned Superheavy arc, where James Gordon has become the GCPD authorized mechanical 10-foot Bat and it thankfully goes someway to justifying why Gordon is Batman.

The last issue established the new order in Gotham where the city, post End Game, is recovering from the Joker’s attack on the city. The disappearance of Bruce Wayne has resulted in Powers international selecting Jim as the right, rather than best, man for the so called “robobat-bunny” mantle.

The issue begins with two children comparing the old and the new Batman, stating as many a Bat supporter has been, he can’t be the new Batman without a batmobile. We find Jim at the Batarang range (it looks like he’s going to need a lot of practice) and discover how with the aid of Bat-patches he is giving up smoking. A Bat-app has been developed which allows the people of Gotham to let others know when they are in danger, allowing the citizens to help themselves and keep Batman ahead of the Police. Jim is seen to be staring out over Gotham, with his inner monologue reminding us of his fears and doubts, as he falls, or should I say swoops down, he is affronted with a previously captured crime boss who has somehow obtained powers. Comissioner Sawyer and Bats discover that he is not the first, there appears to be a new super-villain but Gordon will not be given the chance to confront this mysterious Mr Bloom. The first issue hinted at Batman being authorized and accounted for and in this issue that comes to a head, although we do find out that not all things have changed.

As you would expect with Capullo there is much use of silhouettes and there is a variety of colourful fights and dark shadowy conversational scenes. It is in these one on one scene that Snyder’s writing works best and we begin to understand that Batman is a vehicle for Gordon to help his city, a task he has always tried to do but now he has a big blue robotic advantage. There is a particular moment where he cradles a vanquished foe and it shows a care that is not accustomed with the unregulated Bruce. The only problem I have with the story and the arc is the Batman suit, I prefer scenes when Gordon is out of the mechanical suit and we get to see the slender detective. The final few pages offer a surprise and as of yet I am uncertain on how I feel about it, but I look forward to seeing where it all leads.

All in all, if you are a fan of Batman I would encourage you to try the arc no matter the misgivings you may have. If you have an understanding of James Gordon then this story should speak to you. It is a very enjoyable read with moments of action, interrogation and compassion, furthermore Gordon is becoming a very funny character, even without the moustache.