Batman #588: Close Before Striking: Act 1

Quick answer

Batman #588: Close Before Striking: Act 1 stands out in Gotham Vault because the issue title, character tags, and 2001-04-01 cover date create a distinct entry point into Batman. Readers can use it to jump from this issue into Batman (Bruce Wayne), Robin (Dick Grayson) and related Batman continuity.

Issue summary

The story begins with Batman beating up Matches Malone in a bar. When Matches doesn't tell Batman what he wants, he gets tossed through a window into the street and Batman leaves. After standing up to Batman, Matches is offered a job by Scarface and he accepts. Matches leaves the bar and when he is picked up by Batman it is revealed that Matches was Bruce Wayne, and Batman was actually Dick Grayson. Bruce Wayne (as Batman) shows up to the site of Scarface's job and tries to stop him. Scarface gets away but doesn't get the goods. He believes that Matches told Batman about the job so he finds Matches and shoots him, but Bruce is back at the batcave so who was that? The story continues in Batman #589.

Characters listed for this issue

Batman (Bruce Wayne)The Dark Knight of Gotham. Billionaire by day, vigilante by night. No superpowers, just iron…VIEW APPEARANCES ›

R

Robin (Dick Grayson)Open this Gotham Vault character file to see linked appearances, story arcs, and related com…VIEW APPEARANCES ›