Batman #633: War Games, Act 3, Part 8: No Going Back

Quick answer

Batman #633: War Games, Act 3, Part 8: No Going Back stands out in Gotham Vault because the issue title, character tags, and 2004-12-01 cover date create a distinct entry point into Batman. Readers can use it to jump from this issue into Batman (Bruce Wayne), Catwoman (Selina Kyle), Robin (Dick Grayson), Scarecrow (Jonathan Crane) and related Batman continuity.

Issue summary

Upon learning that Black Mask has seized Oracle's clock tower, Batman routes everybody to the scene. The police have the site surrounded, but they're ordered to arrest anyone in a mask or costume, and to use lethal force if they don't comply. Batman races to confront Black Mask, leaving his associates to take care of any of Gotham's more notorious criminals that might try to escape the building. The Scarecrow is transformed by the serum in his blood into the monstrous creature that recently terrorized Gotham. Robin, Onyx, Catwoman and Batgirl spring into action, promising to surrender to the authorities after they've stopped Crane. Inside, Batman's fight with Black Mask threatens to claim both their lives. To end he conflict, Oracle activates the clock tower's self destruct mechanisms, leaving her survival in Batman's hands. But no sooner has he gotten her out of the ruins when the call comes in from Leslie... Stephanie doesn't have long left.

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 ›

Catwoman (Selina Kyle)The world's greatest thief with a heart of... well, sometimes gold. Walks the line between h…VIEW APPEARANCES ›

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

Scarecrow (Jonathan Crane)Dr. Jonathan Crane weaponizes fear itself with his trademark toxin. Your worst nightmare, bo…VIEW APPEARANCES ›

Batgirl (Barbara Gordon)The first and greatest Batgirl. The Joker took her legs but not her spirit — she became Orac…VIEW APPEARANCES ›

Black Mask (Roman Sionis)Roman Sionis. Crime boss who wears a black skull mask carved from his father's coffin. Bruta…VIEW APPEARANCES ›