Batman and Superman’s rivalry has always captivated readers’ attention in the vast world of DC Comics. These heroic characters have fought in many intense conflicts, but none have been as shocking and unsettling as the one in which Batman defeated Superman by using the Doomsday virus. Fans are left doubting their allegiance as Batman reveals a side of himself in one of the darkest scenes ever portrayed.
Superman’s mind gave way to darkness in DC Comics’ Dark Nights: Metal, turning him into a vicious threat to life itself on Earth. With no other option, Batman activated his secret plan, transforming into the formidable Devastator, armed with Kryptonian might. He confronts the corrupted Superman in a spine-chilling showdown, delivering a devastating blow. This epic battle completely changes the definition of heroism.
When Good Becomes Evil: Superman’s Fall and the Rise of Batman (Devastator)
The Devastator was a ruthless and calculating version of Bruce Wayne with a devious sense of tactics. The creature has a fascinating backstory on his own, and in Dark Knights: Metal, his actions nearly brought the DC Universe to an end.
On the dark planet known as Earth-1, Batman used to be the Devastator. In this universe (per CBR), Superman and the Dark Knight collaborated as friends—at least initially. At some point, Superman turned evil and began an assault on humankind. This betrayal finally broke Batman, as he watched his old friend destroy everything he had ever held dear.
Next, up until the Man of Steel killed his own wife, Lois Lane, Batman tried to ‘cure’ Superman of whatever evil he had. The Man of Steel used his heat vision to sear off the Caped Crusader’s arm when he faced him. Batman confessed that he had given himself the Doomsday virus just before his final defeat, which had not only given him superhuman strength but also hardened his heart. With a swift stroke of luck, the newly named Devastator killed Superman in cold blood by exploiting the element of surprise.
Batman, the Devastator: How Strong Is He?
Introduced by Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo for DC’s Dark Nights: Metal, the Devastator is one of the Dark Knights. He was a corrupted version of Bruce Wayne from the dark multiverse and entered the mainstream DC universe as an agent of Barbatos (the dark god).
This particular Batman originated from Earth-1, a world in which Superman and Batman collaborated to become some of the most powerful heroes in existence. But when Superman transformed into the monster that everyone had always feared he could become, Batman decided to stop his old friend. He transformed his body but kept his mind after contracting a strain of the Doomsday virus. This Batman eventually killed Superman and attempted, in the same way, to destroy the main continuity.
The Devastator possessed all of Batman’s mental abilities. His sharp mind and familiarity with most fighting techniques offered him a tactical advantage in practically every battle. He was immune to most attacks because of the Doomsday virus’s effects on his body.
Well, the history of DC Comics will never be the same after Batman used the Doomsday virus to defeat Superman. This incredible scene provides a terrifying window into Batman’s troubled inner life. This plot pushes the limits of what we expect from our favorite superheroes, reminding us that even the most revered icons have their shadows.
