Nightwing’s New Era: Elevating the Hero to New Heights

Warning! This post contains SPOILERS for Nightwing #120.

While the previous arc by Tom Taylor and Bruno Redondo captured my heart in DC’s Nightwing, I’ve fully embraced the new chapter that unfolds for Dick Grayson and his city. Following the chaotic events involving Heartless, Grayson has reached a satisfying culmination in his ongoing battle for justice—both as a hero and as a civilian. However, he now faces an impending conflict that threatens the safety of Blüdhaven, and I am genuinely thrilled about the developments ahead.

A New Era of Nightwing

The latest storyline is authored by Dan Watters and illustrated by Dexter Soy, with only two issues released so far—Nightwing #119 and Nightwing #120. Together, these issues launch an engaging new narrative, thrusting Dick Grayson into a conflict that endangers the entire city. This fresh storyline promises to lead Nightwing into challenging and potentially darker territory.

Nightwing Remains the Hero We Cherish

Haley Is Still Around!

Immediately, I was pleased to see Nightwing retaining the defining traits that made his previous run so beloved. His upbeat and charming demeanor persists alongside his ongoing partnership with Barbara Gordon, better known as Batgirl, who is also his girlfriend. In Nightwing #120, Grayson goes so far as to save a rabbit that a nefarious corporation, Spheric Solutions, has imprisoned within a mechanical suit, illustrating his instinct to protect even the most vulnerable creatures.

However, the comic also humorously highlights how Grayson, ever the good-hearted hero, forgets to attend to his dog, Haley, while preoccupied with the rabbit rescue—a classic Nightwing blunder. This amusing moment reinforces that Haley, who debuted in the previous arc by Taylor and Redondo, continues to be featured in the series. It’s great to see longstanding elements retained and woven into the fabric of this ongoing storyline, ensuring continuity while keeping true to the beloved characters.

Nightwing Faces New Threats

Gangs vs. Blüdhaven’s Finest

Spheric Ignites a Gang War in Nightwing #120

New adversaries emerge as the tech company Spheric Solutions brings chaos to Blüdhaven. Their motives are dubious, as they manipulate local gangs into conflict by systematically eliminating their leaders. Nightwing steps up to forge a truce among the gangs while he attempts to uncover the true mastermind behind this turmoil. Adding to the complexity, Spheric has equipped the often-corrupt Blüdhaven police with advanced weaponry, including jetpacks, escalating the tension within the city.

Grayson finds himself ensnared in a vicious gang war, orchestrated by a new villain reminiscent of a clown, who seems to be pulling the strings behind Spheric’s actions. This new arc not only raises the stakes but feels every bit as exhilarating and engaging as the celebrated storytelling from the previous series. Notably, with the brutal cliffhanger at the end of Nightwing #120, it appears personal motivations are set to deepen for Grayson.

Excited for This New Era

Where Will Nightwing Go Next?

Nightwing Declares War on Spheric in Nightwing #120

The conclusion of Nightwing #120 is particularly tragic, highlighting the ruthless killing of a young member of the gang known as The Teddies by the now heavily armed Blüdhaven Police Department. This senseless loss, involving a teenage recruit, ignites a justifiable fury within Nightwing. He is resolute in his quest to dismantle the dark influence of Spheric Solutions in his city.

While Nightwing is inherently more optimistic than his counterpart, Batman, this arc could plunge Grayson into a more brooding and rage-driven realm than he has ever traversed before. It’s poised to offer a gripping exploration of his character. With the intrigue set high by the first two issues, I am eager to witness how Dick Grayson navigates this turbulent new chapter.

Nightwing #120 is currently available from DC Comics.

Source & Images