The reveal of Absolute Batman #21’s villain designs already had fans talking, but now writer Scott Snyder is adding an entirely new degree of intrigue.
In comments shared after the covers dropped, Snyder made it clear that what we’ve seen so far is only part of the picture, especially when it comes to Penguin.
“These are two of my favorites,” Snyder said. “Penguin still has some surprises to them. We haven’t revealed yet, different crutches, more style, and jewelry and such :)”
That tease reframes the already striking design. The Penguin shown on the cover is relying on mechanical support and ditching his classic umbrella for something much more aggressive. But Snyder’s hint suggests the visual overhaul goes deeper than what is immediately visible. The reference to “different crutches” and added style points to a character whose identity may be built as much around presentation and evolution as it is survival.
If Penguin is still hiding secrets, Two-Face is hiding something else entirely.
“And Harvey, what I love about him is he evokes the animated series version, which is one of my very favorite designs ever, but he’s also very much ours,” Snyder explained. “Nick came up with the long hair both to mimic an antique judge, and so he can use it to hide the side of his face that’s not in control.”
That detail changes how you read the design instantly. What first appears to be a stylistic flourish becomes something psychological. The long hair is not exclusively about aesthetics, but it is a deliberate choice tied to control, identity, and denial.
There is also a layered visual language at play. The reference to an antique judge evokes authority and tradition, while the animated series’ inspiration grounds the character in one of the most beloved interpretations of Harvey Dent. At the same time, the added twist pushes him into new territory that feels more internal and unsettling.
Taken together, Snyder’s comments reinforce what makes the Absolute line so compelling. These are not simple redesigns. They are reinterpretations built with purpose, where every visual choice hints at character, history, and conflict.
And if Penguin truly still has more to reveal, Absolute Batman’s rogues gallery may be even more unpredictable than it already looks.
Editor’s note: We also reached out to Nick Dragotta. Stay tuned!