Batman: City of Crime (2027 Edition)

Dave Lapham, the acclaimed creator of the ultra-gritty noir series Stray Bullets, weaves a startling story of the Dark Knight facing an unspeakable crime—now back in print as a softcover collected edition!

Bruce Wayne fails to recognize a cry for help from a wayward young girl—which sets in motion a chain of events that escalates to grotesque proportions. An inferno rages in Crime Alley. Six teenaged girls die a horrific death. A mother makes a desperate plea for the safe return of her missing daughter. These misfortunes unite the city—but the secrets revealed may tear it apart.

A guilt-ridden Batman embraces his role as the World’s Greatest Detective and descends into the deepest layer of the city’s underworld where he exposes the sinister roots of evil. In his pursuit of justice, the Caped Crusader faces some of his most dangerous enemies and learns some horrible truths about the people he’s sworn to protect.

This is Gotham City. Not every villain wears a mask. Not every hero wears a cape. Not every victim is innocent. And some secrets should remain buried.

Collects Detective Comics #800-808 and #811-814.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs