Batman #162: The Batman Creature ; Robin's New Secret Identity

Quick answer

Batman #162: The Batman Creature ; Robin's New Secret Identity stands out in Gotham Vault because the issue title, character tags, and 1964-03-01 cover date create a distinct entry point into Batman. Readers can use it to jump from this issue into Ace the Bat-Hound, Alfred Pennyworth, Batman, Nightwing (Dick Grayson) and related Batman continuity.

Issue summary

The Batman Creature (Batman, Robin, Batwoman) Gotham City banks are jewelry stores are experiencing a strange series of robberies from crooks who seem more than normal, exhibiting fantastic strength, speed and stamina, while also having odd almost animal like appearances. After one of their robberies are foiled by Batman and Robin the thief run into the woods and are pursued by them on their whirly-bats. While doing this Batman is attacked from a tree by the feline looking crook and his whirly-bat crashes. Batman continues on foot and finds the lair of the criminal band, which turns out to really be animals given humanoid appearance and semi-intelligence by a rogue scientist with a ray machine, Batman is seen by the scientist who manages to hit him with the ray which has the opposite effect on him turning him into a huge savage monster. Bat-drama then ensues. Strange Old Laws (humorous strip by Henry Boltinoff) Robin's New Secret Identity (Batman, Robin) Give and Take (a public service message by Fred and Mr. and Mrs. Craig / written by Jack Schiff)

Characters listed for this issue

A

Ace the Bat-HoundOpen this Gotham Vault character file to see linked appearances, story arcs, and related com…VIEW APPEARANCES ›

Alfred PennyworthThe man who raised Batman. Ex-SAS, current butler, permanent father figure. The only one who…VIEW APPEARANCES ›

B

BatmanOpen this Gotham Vault character file to see linked appearances, story arcs, and related com…VIEW APPEARANCES ›

Nightwing (Dick Grayson)The first Robin, all grown up. Acrobat, detective, leader. The best of Batman without the da…VIEW APPEARANCES ›

K

Kathy KaneOpen this Gotham Vault character file to see linked appearances, story arcs, and related com…VIEW APPEARANCES ›

M

Mr. CraigOpen this Gotham Vault character file to see linked appearances, story arcs, and related com…VIEW APPEARANCES ›

M

Mrs. CraigOpen this Gotham Vault character file to see linked appearances, story arcs, and related com…VIEW APPEARANCES ›