In the world of Batman, Bruce Wayne’s vigilant tenure saw him master every available resource, but one crucial tool was absent from his toolkit: magic. This realization dawns upon Terry McGinnis in the Batman Beyond series, when his new ally Catboi, or Kyle, introduces him to the world of magic, transforming the game entirely.
In Batman Beyond: Neo-Gothic #2, authored by Jackson Lanzing, Colin Kelly, and brought to life by Max Dunbar and Sebastian Cheng, Batman and Catboi venture into the perilous Gotham Deep. There, they confront a formidable, emaciated version of Killer Croc. A confrontation unfolds, culminating in Kyle deploying a potent spell that incapacitates the Croc, marking a pivotal instance of the Bat Family harnessing magic.
Terry and Kyle’s journey in the issue exposes them to unforeseen hazards in the underground realm. Their encounter with Killer Croc initially leaves them struggling, until Kyle’s unexpected magical intervention turns the tide. The moment showcases how Terry, as Batman Beyond, is expanding his horizons beyond tangible tools and tactics.
Bruce Wayne’s Batman prioritized technology and strategy, avoiding the metaphysical domain. This stemmed from his mistrust of magic due to his inability to exert the same mastery over it as he did over technology. Conversely, Terry’s exposure to magic offers him an unanticipated advantage in the mysterious depths below Gotham.
The contrast between the two Batmen underscores the evolving nature of Batman Beyond. Terry learns that magic exists, a revelation that significantly alters his approach. With magic now in his arsenal, he finds a way to overcome obstacles Bruce might not have pursued.
Kyle’s magical prowess grants Terry and himself respite against Killer Croc and potentially against forthcoming dangers in Gotham Deep. As they approach a guarded tomb, they brace for unknown adversaries. While Bruce would have relied on his conventional equipment, having Kyle’s magic at Terry’s side proves transformative.
The tale thus hints at an exciting new chapter for Batman Beyond, as they navigate the treacherous underbelly of Gotham. The inclusion of magic amplifies Terry’s capabilities, emphasizing how it could be their ultimate weapon against what awaits them. In this continuation of the Batman saga, the integration of magic challenges traditional Batman conventions and paves the way for innovative strategies and uncharted territories.