Fans of Batman Beyond have been dreaming for years about seeing the futuristic Dark Knight on the big screen, and if that ever happens, his latest suit redesign would give Bruce Wayne’s Bat-wardrobe a serious run for its money.
While we’re still waiting on any film or TV news, Terry McGinnis is making his return in comic form, starring alongside Static in a brand-new crossover event titled Batman/Static: Beyond under the DC Elseworlds imprint.
The six-issue limited series, written by Evan Narcisse (Rise of the Black Panther, Batman: Gotham Knights – Gilded City) with artwork by Nikolas Draper-Ivey (Static: Shadows of Dakota), brings fans back to the familiar timeline of Batman Beyond, featuring appearances by the Justice League Beyond.
But what’s really catching everyone’s attention is Batman Beyond’s new suit design, revealed by Draper-Ivey on social media along with fresh looks at Static, Beacon, and the new villain Shutdown.
Both Terry McGinnis and Virgil Hawkins are getting “Shutdown” costume upgrades named after the series’ main antagonist. While each new look brings something unique to the table, the redesigned Batsuit is the clear standout.
“Up until now, Terry has had it easy, taking many of his gadgets and technology for granted—Not anymore,” Draper-Ivey wrote on X. “When Terry encounters our new antagonist; he is struck powerless (Literally) and now must learn how to find a more old-school analog approach to being Batman, meaning he must learn how navigate Gotham as Bruce once did decades ago and truly earn his place as ‘The world’s greatest detective’ without the new age technology to aid him.”
The new suit leans more into a tactical aesthetic while keeping that iconic red and black palette. Instead of the glider wings that usually help Terry take flight, he’s now rocking a traditional cape, more in line with the capes worn by Damian Wayne during his Robin days.
It wraps around the neck for a more armored, intimidating silhouette. His cowl also gets an upgrade, reinforcing the idea that this version of Batman is embracing the legacy of Bruce Wayne.
There’s been a steady chorus from fans wanting to see a revival of the animated series or a live-action adaptation. Sadly, some key voices from that world aren’t looking to return.
Will Friedle, who voiced Terry in the original animated series, recently told fans that he doesn’t see himself stepping back into the role. The passing of Kevin Conroy in 2022 played a big part in that decision.
“If you asked me that question three years ago, the answer would be, ‘Oh my god, yes. Get me in front of the microphone right now.’ Now that Kevin’s gone, I don’t know if I could do it again. I think they would need to recast both roles. Being Terry and not having him answer as Bruce, I don’t think I could do it.”
While we might not be seeing Batman Beyond in action in a film or TV series anytime soon, the comics are giving fans something fun to dig into.
Batman/Static: Beyond #1 hits shelves on Wednesday, November 12th.
