Before Robert Pattinson donned the cape in 2022, there was another The Batman—a 2004 animated series that reimagined the Dark Knight for a new generation. While it never reached the iconic status of Batman: The Animated Series, this show delivered some truly unforgettable episodes. Here are 10 that stand as masterpieces.
10. "The Batman/Superman Story: Part I" (Season 5, Episode 1)
Kicking off Season 5 with a bang, this episode teams Batman with Superman (George Newbern) as Lex Luthor (Clancy Brown) uses Gotham's rogues to take down the Man of Steel. Luthor combines Poison Ivy's mind-control gas with kryptonite, turning Superman into a puppet. Highlights include Robin getting a jetpack and Batman swooping in to save the day. It's a thrilling start to a classic crossover.
9. "Two of a Kind" (Season 4, Episode 8)
Harley Quinn gets a fresh origin in this episode. Voiced by Hynden Walch, she starts as a TV host who loses her job after giving Bruce Wayne terrible advice. The Joker (Kevin Michael Richardson) takes her under his wing, transforming her into the beloved villain. It's a poignant and fun take on a fan-favorite character.
8. "Gotham's Ultimate Criminal Mastermind" (Season 3, Episode 13)
Season 3's finale introduces Hugo Strange (Richard Green), who creates a Digitally Advanced Villain Emulator (D.A.V.E.) that threatens to expose Batman's identity. This episode is a tense, high-stakes thriller that showcases Strange as one of Batman's greatest foes.
7. "Night and the City" (Season 2, Episode 13)
In this season finale, Joker, Penguin (Tom Kenny), and Riddler (Robert Englund) compete to kill Batman and reveal his secret identity. Chaos erupts when Batman's ally Ellen Yin (Ming-Na Wen) is outed. Commissioner Gordon (Mitch Pileggi) must rely on the Caped Crusader to restore order. It's a masterclass in tension and action.
6. "The Batman/Superman Story: Part II" (Season 5, Episode 2)
The second part of the Superman crossover is even better. Batman dons a giant mech suit to fight a mind-controlled Superman, echoing The Dark Knight Returns. After breaking the control, they team up to take down Luthor in his own mech. It's pure superhero spectacle.
5. "The Joining: Part 2" (Season 4, Episode 13)
This episode brings the Justice League together to fight an alien invasion. It's a rare team-up that balances character moments with epic action, proving the show could handle cosmic threats.
4. "A Matter of Family" (Season 4, Episode 9)
This episode explores Batman's relationship with Robin and Batgirl as they face a family crisis. It's emotional and character-driven, showing a softer side of the Dark Knight.
3. "Artifacts" (Season 3, Episode 10)
Set in a future where Batman is a legend, this episode follows a new hero discovering his legacy. It's a creative and poignant story that expands the mythos.
2. "The Batman/Superman Story: Part I" (Season 5, Episode 1)
Already mentioned, but worth noting again for its perfect blend of humor, action, and character dynamics.
1. "The Batman/Superman Story: Part II" (Season 5, Episode 2)
The ultimate masterpiece of the series, this episode delivers everything fans love: epic fights, teamwork, and a satisfying conclusion.
For more underrated gems, check out our list of Underrated Sci-Fi Gems Worth Rewatching. And if you're a fan of superhero stories, don't miss The Ultimate Ranking of the Best Superhero Video Games Ever Made.
