Gothopia Reading Guide

Overview:

Gothopia is a DC Comics crossover event that ran through various Batman-related titles in early 2014. Written by John Layman and featuring artwork from Jason Fabok, Aaron Lopresti, and others, the story imagines Gotham City as a near-perfect utopia. Crime is virtually nonexistent, and Batman, alongside his usual allies, patrols a bright, optimistic metropolis.

However, things aren’t what they seem. As Batman begins to notice inconsistencies in this apparent paradise, the mystery deepens. Key protagonists include Batman and familiar members of the Bat-family, while notable antagonists emerge as the truth about Gotham’s seemingly idyllic state is uncovered.

The Gothopia arc received mixed-to-positive reception. Fans enjoyed the premise of an alternate reality Gotham, and the art, especially Fabok’s depiction of the city, was praised. However, some felt that the storyline didn’t fully capitalize on its intriguing concept, especially since it played out across multiple titles. Layman’s writing was generally well-received, though a few critics noted that the story could feel rushed at times.

Best Way To Read:

• Batman Detective Comics Vol. 5: Gothopia
  • Collects: Detective Comics #25-29

For crossover and significant events, I typically only read the main story the first time I encounter it. Trying to read all of the tie-ins with the story tends to make them increasingly convoluted and are not crucial to the main narrative. However, I think they are important to read, as many series-shifting plotlines can happen.

For the tie-in issues, I only read them as they come up in the reading guide that I am working through. This can become problematic because the tie-in issues are not always included in collected editions of the event. So you may need to hunt for them.

Reading Order:

References:

• Comic Book Herald
• Comic Book Reading Orders

Feature image from Detective Comics #27 cover art by Greg Capullo and FCO Plascencia