If you didn't know, the first appearance of our beloved Caped Crusader was in Detective Comics #27, originally published in May of 1939. Since then, Batman has become one of the most iconic and recognizable superheroes in history, spawning countless movies, TV shows, video games, LEGO Sets, and pretty much everything else. You'd be hard-pressed to go out and find someone who isn't at least a little familiar with Batman.
If you have a device that can access Kindle books, you can grab Detective Comics #27 for free via Amazon. This is the perfect way to dive into Batman's history and see how he's changed (or stayed the same) over the years. We highly recommend this route, since physical graded copies even in bad condition can go for over $1.5 million.
Detective Comics #27 is Free on Kindle and ComiXology
Created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger, Batman was first introduced in the story "The Case of the Chemical Syndicate" in Detective Comics #27. The issue's plot revolves around Gotham City police commissioner James Gordon (also his first appearance), alongside socialite Bruce Wayne, investigating the murder of a business man associated with the Apex Chemical Corporation. Through the typical sleuthing and detective work we've come to expect from Batman, he solves the case, stops the bad guys, and broods the whole way through. And in the end, it's finally revealed to the reader that Bruce Wayne is (spoiler alert) Batman.
This structure for a Batman story may be simple, but it's extremely effective, and has gone on to influence more comic stories over the decades that aren't just Batman. The fact that his appearance and characterization have hardly shifted in this time is a testament to the original Kane and Finger vision, with modern Batman stories following similar formulas. Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale's Batman: The Long Halloween, for example, is the epitome of a "detective" comic. It sees Batman tracking down a serial killer who strikes once a month, only on major holidays. It also has the perfect mix of the campy costumed supervillains and underworld crime bosses, harkening back to the days of Detective Comics #27 when Batman was simply taking on corrupt business men and white-collar criminals.
Another notable detail from Detective Comics #27 compared to comics published over the years is Batman's appearance. Sure, he's undergone countless redesigns and costume changes, but the DNA has remained consistent for over 80 years. The cape, cowl, utility belt, and bat-logo on his chest are just a few design staples that have stood the test of time. Like Mickey Mouse or Super Mario, Batman is easily recognizable because of these design choices and his costume will surely evolve over time like it always has. But you can count on these iconic gadgets for years to come.
The legacy of Detective Comics #27 and the first appearance of Batman cannot be understated, and the character's impact on popular culture and entertainment is likely beyond what Bob Kane and Bill Finger could have ever possibly dreamed. Batman and his equally iconic rogue's gallery of villains have infected other mediums, like films and video games, and will live on through the die-hard love from the fans. If there's one thing you can count on, it's that Batman will always be watching, lurking in the shadows, ready to dispense justice in his own twisted way. Just like he has since 1939.
Myles Obenza is a freelance writer for IGN. Follow him on Bluesky @mylesobenza.bsky.social.
