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Batman’s animated shows ranked as one of the most popular and iconic superheroes of all time, and his animated adventures have been some of the best adaptations of the character. From the groundbreaking Batman: The Animated Series to the more recent and unique Batman Beyond, there have been many great Batman cartoons to choose from.
But Which One Is The Best?
Here is a ranking of all the Batman animated series, from worst to best:
Beware The Batman (2013-2014)
Beware the Batman animated shows ranked that aired on Cartoon Network in 2013. It featured a more streamlined and stylized take on the Batman mythos, with a focus on gadgets and action. The show was canceled after one season, and it’s generally considered to be one of the weaker Batman animated series.
The Adventures of Batman (1968-1969)
The Adventures of Batman was the first animated series to feature the Caped Crusader. It aired on ABC in 1968, during the height of the Batman TV show’s popularity. The show was a faithful adaptation of the TV show, with the same campy tone and over-the-top action. It’s a fun show to watch for nostalgic reasons, but it’s not one of the best Batman animated series overall.
The New Adventures of Batman (1977-1978)
The New Adventures of Batman was a sequel to The Adventures of Batman. It aired on CBS in 1977, and it featured a slightly more mature tone than its predecessor. The show was canceled after one season, but it’s still worth checking out for fans of old-school Batman cartoons.
The Batman (2004-2008)
The Batman was a CGI-animated series that aired on The WB and The CW from 2004 to 2008. It featured a darker and more realistic take on the Batman mythos, with a focus on crime and noir. The show was praised for its animation, voice acting, and writing. It’s one of the better Batman animated series, but it can be a bit too dark and brooding at times.
Batman: The Brave and the Bold (2008-2011)
Batman: The Brave and the Bold was a comedic animated series that aired on Cartoon Network from 2008 to 2011. It featured a more lighthearted and campy tone than most other Batman cartoons. The show was praised for its humor, action, and variety of characters. It’s one of the most fun Batman animated series to watch, and it’s a great introduction to the character for younger fans.
Batman Beyond (1999-2001)
Batman Beyond was a sequel to Batman: The Animated Series. It aired on The WB from 1999 to 2001. The show featured a new Batman, Terry McGinnis, who is trained by an aging Bruce Wayne. Batman Beyond was a groundbreaking show for its time, and it featured some of the best animation and writing of any Batman cartoon. It’s a must-watch for any fan of the character.
The New Batman Adventures (1997-1999)
The New Batman Adventures was a continuation of Batman: The Animated Series. It aired on The WB from 1997 to 1999. The show featured a more mature tone than its predecessor, with a focus on darker and more complex storylines. The New Batman Adventures is considered to be one of the best Batman animated series ever made, and it’s a must-watch for any fan of the character.
Batman: The Animated Series (1992-1995)
Batman: The Animated Series is widely considered to be the best Batman animated series ever made. It aired on Fox Kids from 1992 to 1995. The show featured a dark and atmospheric tone, with a focus on complex characters and storylines. Batman: The Animated Series was praised for its animation, voice acting, writing, and music. It’s a must-watch for any fan of Batman, and it’s one of the best-animated series of all time.
Beware the Batman, the short-lived 2013–2014 animated series
In the world of animated television series, there are certain iconic shows that become cultural touchstones, captivating audiences of all ages. While some shows achieve instant fame and longevity, others quietly make their mark and, sadly, fade into relative obscurity. One such hidden gem is “Beware the Batman,” a short-lived animated series that aired from 2013 to 2014. Despite its brief run, this series deserves recognition for its unique take on the Dark Knight and its bold departure from the traditional Batman narrative.
A Different Dark Knight
“Beware the Batman” offered a fresh perspective on Batman, departing from the familiar characterizations seen in previous animated adaptations. Rather than focusing solely on Batman’s iconic rogues’ gallery, the series explored lesser-known villains and new interpretations of classic foes. This approach added a layer of intrigue and unpredictability to the storytelling, keeping viewers engaged.
One of the most significant departures from the norm was the inclusion of Katana as Batman’s partner. This marked the first time that Katana had been featured prominently in a Batman animated series, and her character brought a new dynamic to the Batman mythos. Her expertise in martial arts and her unique katana, the Soultaker, added depth to the action sequences and character interactions.
A Gritty and Realistic Aesthetic
“Beware the Batman” also set itself apart with its visual style. Eschewing the typical bright and colorful animation seen in many superhero series, it embraced a darker, more realistic aesthetic. The character designs, environments, and action sequences all exuded a sense of gritty sophistication that aligned with the tone of the show. This design choice not only made the series visually distinctive but also reflected the morally ambiguous and complex nature of the characters and their world.
Character Development and Storytelling
The series delved into the psychology of Batman in a way that was both introspective and engaging. Bruce Wayne’s vulnerabilities and struggles were highlighted, allowing viewers to connect with the character on a deeper level. As the series progressed, it became evident that this Batman was more than just a vigilante; he was a complex individual with his own inner demons to conquer.
Additionally, the show’s narrative arcs were both compelling and intricate. The use of lesser-known villains such as Anarky and Professor Pyg added layers of mystery and suspense to the storylines. Each episode built on the previous one, creating a coherent and evolving narrative that rewarded dedicated viewers.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
While “Beware the Batman” may not have enjoyed the longevity of some other animated Batman series, it left an indelible mark on those who appreciated its unique approach. It showcased the versatility of the Batman character and demonstrated that there are still untapped storytelling possibilities within Gotham City.
In Conclusion
“Beware the Batman” may have been short-lived, but it should not be overlooked. It was a daring and innovative series that dared to reimagine the Dark Knight and his world in a way that challenged conventions and breathed new life into the Batman mythos. For fans of Batman and the animated series, “Beware the Batman” is a hidden gem that deserves to be discovered and celebrated for its creativity and originality.
