Batman has inspired the loyalty of many in his long years of operations, from his ever-changing flock of Robins to the Batgirls and Nightwing. It’s commonplace for titles to switch hands and move from one member of the Bat-Family to another. However, Tim Drake taking over the Nightwing moniker didn’t turn him into Blüdhaven’s protector – instead, it led right to his death.
Batman / Lobo #1 – by Alan Grant, Simon Bisley, Nathan Eyring, and Bill Oakley – is an Elseworlds story, taking place in a reality where Joker brings in Lobo to destroy Batman. One major departure from more familiar DC timelines is Tim Drake’s role. Instead of remaining Robin, or taking on his self-made Red Robin name, he’s an incredibly muscular Nightwing.
While Tim’s investigative prowess and loyalty make him the perfect choice for the role on the surface, his major encounter with Lobo proves that the title is cursed for him, as he plummets to his untimely death.
LOBO Is Taking Over DC Comics in Early 2024
Typically used as a villain for Superman or an independent operator in DC’s comic universe, bounty hunter Lobo is taking a much more prevalent role.
Taking On The Nightwing Mantle Dooms Tim Drake
Tim is no stranger to stepping into the shoes of others. He got his start in vigilantism as the third Robin, but continually set himself apart. Drake might not be the top fighter in the Bat-Family, but he is intensely dedicated. His detective skills rival – and sometimes outstrip – Batman’s; generally he’s more prone to fighting problems with his mind than his fists. A close look at Batman / Lobo’s incarnation of Tim shows that he is out of his element, instead of playing to his strengths, and that may have ultimately proved to be what cost him his life.
The idea of passing the Nightwing title on isn’t just confined to one universe, either. Instead of Dick Grayson’s controversial “Ric Grayson” era, when a head injury caused him to lose his memories, there were plans to have Tim Drake temporarily take on the role. He has watched over Blüdhaven before, as he and Cassandra Cain both spent a good deal of time in the city after Stephanie Brown’s death. However, donning an official mantle is a different level of responsibility. Doubtlessly, Tim would have done it for his brother, but Batman / Lobo shows how ill-fitting that title would be.
Tim Drake Is A Great Hero – In His Own Element
Tim Drake is a versatile hero – capable of working alone, acting as a sidekick, or leading a team of his own. He has solved problems that others refused to believe existed by relying on his unique strengths and convictions. Similarly, Dick Grayson crafted the Nightwing title for himself, and it’s rooted in who he is. Although Tim would do anything to help Batman and his family, becoming Nightwing did little more than offer him an early death, and prove he’s better under his own direction.
