Well, in my opinion, a best Batman story is one that can show different aspects of Gotham City. It should be a place that feels alive, with its own problems and characters. And Batman has to be in the middle of it all, trying to make a difference. Like in 'No Man's Land', where Gotham is cut off from the rest of the world and Batman has to deal with chaos in a whole new way.
A good Batman story should also have some sort of moral or message. It could be about justice, redemption, or the power of the human spirit. For instance, in 'Under the Red Hood', we see Batman dealing with the idea of second chances and the consequences of his actions in a very thought - provoking way.
For a Batman story to be the best, it has to be more than just action. It has to make you think about Batman as a person. In stories like 'The Long Halloween', we see Batman trying to solve a mystery while also dealing with his own moral code. And the supporting characters need to be well - written too. Commissioner Gordon's role in many of these stories is crucial in showing Batman's connection to the normal world of Gotham.
The best origin stories also involve the creation of his rogues' gallery. His relationship with villains like the Joker is important. In 'The Killing Joke', we see how the Joker's actions are intertwined with Batman's past and present. And the setting of Gotham City matters a lot. A dark, corrupt Gotham makes his origin more impactful, like in the comics and movies where Gotham is always a character in itself.
Well, in my opinion, a best Batman Joker story should have an engaging plot. It could be something that challenges Batman in a new way because of the Joker's actions. Take 'The Dark Knight Returns'. The Joker coming back after so long and his new scheme really spices things up. And the characters need to be well - written, with the Joker being his crazy, unpredictable self and Batman being the determined hero.
Well - crafted villains also contribute. In 'Superman/Batman: Public Enemies', the way the false accusations are set up and the powerful forces against them add depth. A good villain can force Superman and Batman to work together in new and interesting ways, making the story memorable.
The authenticity. It's probably special because it tries to tell a story that is true to the Batman we all know and love. It might show his complex character, his internal struggles, and his unwavering commitment to justice.
A great Batman - Wonder Woman fanfic often has well - written characters. It should capture the essence of both Batman's brooding nature and Wonder Woman's strength and compassion. For example, a story where they team up to fight a common enemy and their different fighting styles and personalities complement each other.
The best Batman stories usually have strong character development. For instance, in 'The Dark Knight Returns', we see Batman's struggle with age and his place in a changing world. In contrast, the worst stories often lack this depth. They might have convoluted plots that don't serve the character well. Also, the best ones tend to have a clear vision of Gotham, like in 'Batman: Year One'. The worst may distort the city's atmosphere.
The atmosphere in these stories is often dark and gritty, which suits the characters well. The art styles in these comics enhance this mood. In 'Batman: Face the Face', the art and the writing work together to create a sense of tension and hope as Two - Face attempts to start anew, but is constantly haunted by his past.
The chemistry between them. In stories like 'Batman: Heart of Hush', their love - hate relationship is on full display. They can be enemies one moment and lovers the next. This constant push and pull makes for a great story.
The art style is crucial too. In 'Batman: Hush', the detailed and dynamic art really brings the story to life. The artist's ability to capture the mood, from the dark alleys of Gotham to the intense fight scenes, makes it a great graphic novel. It also has a complex plot with many twists and turns.