The latest issue of Absolute Batman has given fans something exciting to talk about. The comic book series just released its Issue #20 on February 20, 2026, and it comes with a visual surprise for manga lovers. The new issue features artwork that pays tribute to the legendary dark fantasy manga Berserk, created by the late Kentaro Miura.
This is not the first time the Absolute Batman series has shown love to popular manga. The same series previously released variant cover art inspired by Tatsuki Fujimoto’s Chainsaw Man and the classic cyberpunk manga Akira. Now with Issue #20, the Dark Knight takes on the look and feel of another iconic manga character—Guts, the Black Swordsman from Berserk.
What Makes Absolute Batman #20 Special for Berserk Fans
The tribute in Absolute Batman #20 comes through the artwork that shows Batman wielding a massive axe. Fans immediately noticed the strong resemblance between this image and the famous cover of Berserk Volume 1, which features Guts holding his massive Dragon Slayer sword. The pose, the intensity, and the dark atmosphere all mirror Miura’s original artwork.
This visual nod to Berserk matters because Berserk holds a special place in the manga world. The series began in 1989 and ran for decades, building a massive global following. Its dark themes, complex characters, and detailed artwork influenced countless creators across comics, manga, and other media. The fact that an American comic book like Absolute Batman now pays direct homage to Berserk shows just how far Miura’s influence has reached.
For those unfamiliar with Berserk, the story follows Guts, a lone mercenary with a tragic past who battles demons and his own inner darkness while wielding an enormous sword. The series is known for its unflinching look at violence, trauma, and the human condition. Batman, as a character, shares some similarities with Guts—both are brooding heroes carrying deep emotional scars, both operate in dark worlds, and both use fear as a weapon against their enemies.
The Chainsaw Man Connection and Other Manga Tributes
Before this Berserk tribute, Absolute Batman had already shown appreciation for modern manga. The series previously released variant covers inspired by Chainsaw Man, the hit manga by Tatsuki Fujimoto that became a global phenomenon through its anime adaptation and unique storytelling.
The Chainsaw Man tribute connected Batman with the chaotic world of Denji, the protagonist who can transform into a chainsaw-wielding devil. Both characters fight monstrous enemies and struggle with their dual identities. That variant cover was well received by fans who enjoy both Western comics and manga.
The series also paid tribute to Akira, Katsuhiro Otomo’s groundbreaking cyberpunk manga that helped introduce manga to Western audiences in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Akira remains one of the most influential manga and anime properties of all time, with its dystopian setting and themes of power and corruption.
These tributes show how comic book creators today openly acknowledge their influences from Japanese manga. The lines between Western comics and manga continue to blur as artists and writers draw inspiration from both traditions.
Berserk’s Legacy Continues in 2026
While Kentaro Miura sadly passed away in May 2021, his work on Berserk continues through the efforts of his close friend and fellow manga creator Kouji Mori, along with the team at Studio GAGA. Recent updates confirm that Berserk’s serialization will continue in 2026, allowing fans to see the story reach its conclusion with guidance from the person who knew Miura’s plans best.
This news about Berserk continuing adds extra meaning to the Absolute Batman tribute. The series remains alive and relevant, with new chapters coming out that honor Miura’s vision. The Batman homage arrives at a time when Berserk is very much in the public conversation again.
Batman and Berserk Collaboration Beyond Comics
The connection between Batman and Berserk extends beyond this comic book tribute. Prime 1 Studio, known for creating high-end collectible statues, recently released a collaboration piece that combines both properties. This new collectible features Batman wearing armor clearly inspired by Guts’ iconic look from Berserk.
The statue gives Batman the massive, muscular build reminiscent of the Black Swordsman, along with armor details that fans of Berserk will immediately recognize. This physical product shows that the connection between these two dark heroes resonates with collectors and fans who appreciate both franchises.
For fans who want to own a piece of this crossover, the Prime 1 Studio collaboration offers something special. It brings together the world of Gotham’s protector and the dark fantasy realm of Midland in a way that feels natural given both characters’ similar themes and visual styles.
Fan Reactions to the Berserk Tribute
Social media and comic book forums have been buzzing since Absolute Batman #20 hit stores on February 20, 2026. Fans quickly spotted the Berserk reference and shared their excitement online. Many pointed out how fitting it is for Batman to channel Guts, given both characters’ status as dark, anti-hero figures who operate outside normal society.
Longtime Berserk fans expressed appreciation that Miura’s work continues to inspire new generations of artists. The tribute introduces Berserk to comic book readers who might not have explored manga before, potentially bringing new fans to the series.
Some fans also noted that the Absolute Batman series seems to be building a pattern of manga tributes, with Chainsaw Man, Akira, and now Berserk all getting nods. This has led to speculation about which manga might get referenced next, with names like Vinland Saga or Attack on Titan coming up in fan discussions.
Also Read:
Where to Find Absolute Batman #20
Readers interested in seeing this Berserk tribute for themselves can find Absolute Batman #20 at local comic book shops and digital comic platforms. The issue is part of the ongoing Absolute Batman series, which reimagines the Dark Knight in new and creative ways while maintaining the core elements that make the character beloved.
For international readers, the issue is available through standard comic book distribution channels. Fans in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and India can access the comic through platforms like ComiXology, Amazon Kindle, or by visiting local comic book stores that carry DC titles.
Also Read: Frieren Season 2 Episode 6 Returns February 27 With Divine Revolte Arc After One Week Break
Stay connected with VvipTimes for more updates on comic book news, manga tributes, and the latest developments in pop culture entertainment.
