Premiere issue of an ongoing series in the Absolute Universe, a dimension built on Darkseid energy
Introduction of Alfred Pennyworth, an M16 agent
Introduction of Black Mask
Introduction of Waylon Jones, Killer Crock in the mainstream universe
Introduction of Martha Wayne, Commissioner Gordon, Barbara Gordon, Harvey Bullock
Introduction of Selina Kyle, Oswald Cobblepot, Edward Nygma, Harvey Dent - as children in a photograph
Introduction of Matches Malone
Introduction of Joker, first cameo appearance
Introduction of Julia Pennyworth, cameo appearance
Introduction and death of Thomas Wayne
1st team appearance of the Party Animals, led by Black Mask
Absolute Batman #1 preceded by a 16-page black and white ashcan preview