Superman: Emperor Joker #[nn]
In "Superman Arkham, Part One: It's a Mad, Mad, Mad World!", Joe Kelly and Kano deliver a mind-bending twist on DC's most iconic heroes, as Joker’s twisted reign over reality reaches its peak—only for Superman to challenge the villain’s ultimate control with a single, devastating truth. The story unfolds with chilling precision, leading to a shocking reversal of power and a haunting emotional reckoning that forces Superman to confront the cost of heroism. Cover by Ed McGuinness and Cam Smith captures the surreal intensity of the moment, making this a standout issue in the series.
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Though Joker's control of the universe is completely absolute, Superman points out that Joker cannot will Batman out of existence because he cannot get Batman out of his mind. With the realization that he will never be rid of Batman, Joker breaks and returns his power to Mr. Mxyzptlk, who restores the universe. But Batman's mind has snapped from all the torture he witnessed at the hands of the Joker and the only way to restore him is by the Spectre transferring the pain and trauma to the Man of Steel, who heroically shoulders the burden.
Plot details indexed by the Grand Comics Database (CC BY-SA).