Why 'Injustice' Faces Criticism Despite Dark Comic Books' Fan Base

Some people criticize the Injustice Universe for being too dark, but this criticism is often met with a defensive stance, as fans of The Boys and other darker comic book series argue that they have dedicated fan bases. Understanding why this comparison between Injustice and other dark comic books like Watchmen is complex involves exploring the nature of these universes and their storytelling.

Why 'Injustice' Stands Out in a Fan Base of Dark Comic Books

The Injustice Universe features DC's main heroes, such as Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman, in a grim and dark setting. Critics often draw parallels to The Boys and Watchmen, which also explore darker themes. However, The Boys and Watchmen had different origins and impacts.

Blending Genre with Legacy

Injustice was first published by DC Comics and was a part of the New 52 relaunch, which meant that it had a short lifespan and focus on bold, often controversial storytelling. Watchmen, on the other hand, was published as a graphic novel by DC in 1986, and it has left a lasting impression due to its depth and cultural significance. Comparing these works is akin to comparing apples and oranges because they come from different eras and contexts, making a direct comparison challenging.

Difference in Universes and Impact

While The Boys and Watchmen are distinct from mainstream DC comics, they still have their own universes and dedicated fans who appreciate their unique storylines. The main argument against Injustice is that it heavily features DC's main heroes, making the darkness more glaring and impactful. There is a cultural recognition disparity as well; people generally know about Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman, but many do not recognize the protagonists of Watchmen as easily. Additionally, the use of streaming platforms has not necessarily translated to the same level of recognition for newer, darker comic book series.

Comparative Storytelling: A Dull Rip-off?

Critics often point out that Injustice borrows heavily from Kingdom Come, another DC comic book that, while not strictly related to Injustice, shares similar themes of heroism and sacrifice. Let's delve into how both series unfold.

Superman's Dilemma

In Injustice, Superman and his friends decide to declare themselves dictators and start killing villains on sight. This move is a stark contrast to the more mature and nuanced approach seen in Kingdom Come. In contrast, Kingdom Come opens with a more dramatic and visceral scene: the Daily Planet building being gassed, resulting in significant casualties. Both comics explore how a hero's actions can spiral out of control, but Kingdom Come emphasizes the hero's struggle to do the right thing, even if it means breaking laws and conventions. This narrative arc is more about preserving humanity and finding redemption, whereas Injustice focuses on the dark consequences of giving in to the temptation to be a vigilante.

Superman’s Journey and Legacy

Kingdom Come delves into Superman's struggle to maintain his values and his role as a hero even when doing so seems to go against his nature. The main character, Chief Kal-El, comes to terms with the fact that his actions have not always had the noblest intentions. The ending sees him retire from active hero work, leaving the heroes to find their own paths. In contrast, Injustice ends with a more nightmarish scenario, where the heroes lose their moral compass and become the villains they once opposed. This narrative arc is more about the breakdown of trust and the veins of the dark.

In conclusion, the criticism of Injustice largely stems from its depictions of DC heroes as darker characters and its focus on a more immediate and impactful dark storyline. However, like any critique, it is subjective and varies based on personal preferences and the context in which these stories were created. While Injustice may not have the same cultural cache as Watchmen or Kingdom Come, it still offers a compelling and dark exploration of the superhero mythos.