Batman 1989 Sequel Batman: Revolution to Introduce the Burton-Verse's Riddler

Tim Burton's Batman universe continues to expand with Batman: Revolution, a new novel from author John Jackson Miller and Penguin Random House. This book introduces the Burton-verse's version of The Riddler, and is available for pre-order on Amazon.

As reported by ComicBook.com, Revolution follows 2024's Batman: Resurrection (also by Miller), and is set between the events of 1989's Batman and 1992's Batman Returns. The novel draws inspiration from Burton's unmade third Batman film, which was rumored to feature Robin Williams as The Riddler.

Here's the official synopsis for Batman: Revolution:

It’s summer in Gotham, and a city-wide celebration is underway. The lingering effects of The Joker’s reign of terror have finally subsided, allowing the mayor and retail tycoon Max Shreck to orchestrate a spectacular Fourth of July event. However, not all is peaceful. Batman remains vigilant as gang violence and masked criminals escalate. Meanwhile, growing protests erupt against the city's extravagant displays of wealth.

At the heart of this simmering tension is Norman Pinkus, a humble copy boy at the Gotham Globe and the anonymous mastermind behind the newspaper's wildly popular "Riddle Me This" word puzzles. Unknown to all, Norman possesses an extraordinary intellect, silently solving crimes for the police via a tip line—even before Batman is aware of their occurrence.

Despite his unsung contributions, Norman’s faith in Gotham and its ideals begins to waver. Observing the city's leaders and its citizens fixate on Batman, he feels overlooked and unappreciated. Driven by disillusionment, Norman devises a plan: With the aid of dangerous new allies, he exploits the summer's unrest to lure the Dark Knight into a perilous game of riddles, aiming to establish himself as Gotham's true savior. Their confrontation will unearth hidden secrets about Gotham's past, threatening the city's future. Norman, now known as The Riddler, and Batman will clash in a battle of wits with far-reaching consequences.

Batman: Revolution will be released on October 28, 2025. Pre-order your copy on Amazon.

Batman '89: Echoes & Superman '78: The Metal Curtain Cover Gallery

DC Comics is also expanding the Burton-verse with publications like Batman '89 (a sequel to Returns featuring Billy Dee Williams as Two-Face and Marlon Wayans as Robin), Batman '89: Echoes (introducing Jeff Goldblum-inspired Scarecrow and a Madonna-inspired Harley Quinn), and two volumes of Superman '78, serving as sequels to the Christopher Reeve Superman films.

To learn more about Burton's unmade Batman 3 and other canceled DC films, explore our article on DC movies that never launched.