Batman Eternal #16

Batman looms large against a striking split backdrop of gold and deep blue, his cape billowing as a swarm of bats erupts behind him and Gotham's Gothic skyline rises at his feet — Dustin Nguyen's cover art captures the Dark Knight at his most imposing. Part of DC's ambitious weekly series from 2014, this issue — "The Monster Machine" — brings together a formidable writing team including Scott Snyder, James Tynion IV, Ray Fawkes, John Layman, and Tim Seeley, with interior art by Nguyen and Derek Fridolfs. Released during Batman's 75th anniversary year, it's a fine example of the New 52 era's commitment to keeping Gotham's guardian perpetually compelling.