Writer: Sholly Fisch
Art: Megan Huang
Publisher: DC comics
Price: $3.99
Release Date: April 2, 2024
If you’re interested in this comic, series, related trades, or any of the others mentioned, then simply click on the title/link to snag a copy through Amazon as you read The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries #4 Review.
THE DISPATCH
In The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries #4, the gang is investigating more mysterious happenings in Gotham, with citizens inexplicably turning into fearsome winged creatures. This comic is not only fun for all ages, but also educational as Batman explains the difference between a gargoyle and a grotesque. A gargoyle must serve a functional purpose by having an open mouth, which doubles as a water spout. A grotesque is decorative, but serves no functional purpose.
Not only that, but the villain tells us the real names of famous actors of yesteryear before they took their more well-known stage names. This issue also contained references to previous Batman creators, like the Sprang Theater, a reference to Dick Sprang, a famous Batman comic book artist who worked on comics during the Golden Age of comics. There is a point where Robin repeats a famous line from the 60’s Batman TV show before they drive off in the Batmobile. Another thing worth mentioning is that although it is a decent mystery, the actual defeat of the villain in this issue is far too easy, considering the threat this villain possesses.
ART
The artwork in The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries #4 is terrible, for the most part, especially if you’re expecting the Scooby-Doo characters to be drawn in the traditional style. You can still tell who is who, of course, but they are drawn in a more rudimentary fashion. Although, on the plus side, at least they’re not as badly depicted as how they appeared in the Be Cool Scooby-Doo cartoon. Also, the Batmobile is modeled after the version from the 60’s Batman TV show. Fans of that show will enjoy that homage.
FINAL THOUGHTS
If you’re looking for a somewhat fun comic that’s also semi-educational, The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries #4 is for you. If you’re hoping for the Scooby-Doo characters to be drawn in the more traditional style and for the villain to put up a bit more of a fight before he is defeated, you will be disappointed. All in all, it’s still a good mystery, but the ending is a little bit rushed.