James Gunn's Superman Trailer is out.. and it looks awesome.

The long-awaited Superman trailer is finally here, and let me tell you—this is the Superman we’ve all been waiting for. After years of waiting for the right moment to see the Man of Steel soar back into our lives, we’re about to get a full-blown, larger-than-life adventure that is everything fans have been craving. Superman has officially dropped its first look, and this one’s different. This time, we’re talking about hope, heart, and the return of what’s been missing for far too long.

Thoughts on Final Night Storyline & DC Kickstarter is ending..

 

The Final Night is a 1996 DC crossover storyline where heroes must save Earth from an alien entity, the Sun-Eater, which threatens to engulf the sun, plunging the planet into eternal winter. This dramatic tale blends superhero action with human emotion and highlights the importance of unity in the face of catastrophe. Written by Karl Kesel and illustrated by Stuart Immonen, it serves as both a gripping disaster narrative and a pivotal moment in the DC Universe.

We have a Youtube channel for our Podcast!

Some folks asked if the Gotham Database podcast could be on Youtube as well as audio platforms. So as requested you can go right to this link and listen to all the podcasts as they happen just like you can via spotify or apple. Enjoy!

https://youtube.com/@theGothamDatabase

Gotham Database Podcast: DC Kickstarter Update & Absolute Batman #1 Review

 

 

 

In today's episode, we dive into the nitty-gritty of the DC Kickstarter campaign—what’s working, what’s not, and whether this bold move by DC is shaking up the comic book world or just adding noise. Then, we’ll roll up our sleeves and dissect the "DC All In" and "Absolute Universe" initiatives—two ambitious projects redefining how we experience DC’s iconic characters. But that's just the warm-up.

The centerpiece? A deep dive into Absolute Batman #1. Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta don’t just retell Batman’s origin—they completely rewire it for the modern age. Forget the pearls in Crime Alley; this Batman is forged in the crucible of a mass shooting at Gotham Zoo, a raw, contemporary spin that hits closer to home than ever before.

We’ll unpack how this gritty reimagining challenges the mythos we all know, swapping out the mugger with a shadowy, systemic menace that feels all too real. From the haunting loss of his father, a social worker dedicated to change, to the fresh energy in Dragotta’s visceral artwork, Absolute Batman #1 isn’t just a story—it’s a statement.

Tune in to hear my take on whether Snyder and Dragotta are onto something groundbreaking, or if this “modernized” Batman leaves something crucial in the shadows. Buckle up, because this isn’t just a walk through Gotham—it’s a deep plunge into its darkest corners. Don’t miss it.

 

CLARA "CLIO" WESTBROOK, Support for The Clamor Collective

Real Name: CLARA "CLIO" WESTBROOK

Age: 20s (date unknown)
Marital Status: Single
Aliases: Westy, Brooke, Clio
Motivation: Seeking Justice (from the shadows)
Occupation:Coder

 

DEX: 2 STR: 3 BODY: 3
INT: 9 WILL: 6 MIND: 8
INFL: 3 AURA: 3 SPIRIT: 3
INITIATIVE: 14 HERO POINTS: 30

 

Skills:

• Hacking (Cybersecurity): 10
  • Clio can breach nearly any system, from corporate firewalls to government networks, using her advanced skills and her homemade tools.
• Engineering (Gadgetry): 8
  • An inventor at heart, Clio is able to create basic gadgets, security systems, and custom tech that she uses to help the team in unconventional ways.
• Communications (Tech Support): 9
  • She’s the voice in the earpiece, guiding the team through dangerous situations with quick, precise commands and managing all comms behind the scenes.
• Streetwise (Tech Underground): 6
  • Her background in hacking and technology puts her in contact with the criminal underworld, where she sources parts, info, and help when necessary.
• Surveillance: 7
  • Clio has mastered the art of watching without being noticed, using drones, hidden cameras, and digital surveillance to track and gather intel.

Advantages:

• Tech Savvy: Clio’s knowledge of all things tech, from digital hacking to creating gadgets, makes her indispensable to the team.
• Silent Operator: She works behind the scenes, able to infiltrate systems and run operations with little to no visibility, making her the quiet backbone of the team.
• Problem Solver: When the team faces a crisis, Clio is the one who provides the solutions, whether it's designing a new gadget or pulling the strings behind the scenes to get them out of trouble.

Drawbacks:

• Zero Presence: Despite her vital role, Clio’s lack of social presence and her tendency to fade into the background often makes her feel invisible and underappreciated by others.
• Overlooked Leadership: While she could lead, her quiet nature makes it difficult for her to assert authority, even when she has better solutions than the others.
• Self-Doubt: Deep down, Clio struggles with imposter syndrome, questioning her worth despite her brilliance, which sometimes affects her ability to take charge when needed.

Equipment:

• Custom Hacking Rig:
  • BODY: 3
  • EV: 5
  • Special: Portable system she uses to hack into systems, track communications, or break into secure networks.
  • Description: A small, powerful set of tools and software she carries, giving her access to any system or database she needs.
• Tech Tools (Gadgetry Kit):
  • BODY: 3
  • EV: 4
  • Special: A bag of various tech gadgets and devices she’s built—everything from tiny drones to EMP devices.
  • Description: A collection of gadgets that she’s designed to help with espionage, surveillance, and disruption. Though sometimes she’s forced to improvise, Clio’s tools are invaluable to the team’s success.
• Ear Piece (Comm Link):
  • BODY: 2
  • EV: 4
  • Special: The comms device she uses to stay in contact with the team, giving them orders or help during operations.
  • Description: The small device lets her communicate with The Tender and Professor Egghead, guiding them remotely through missions or combat situations.

Wealth: 3

Background:

Clara “Clio” Westbrook was never meant to be the center of attention. In fact, she learned early on to be the quiet one, the unseen hand that made everything possible. Growing up in the tech world, she was always the girl who could fix the broken computer, the one who understood code better than people. But when the world looks at her, they see someone with zero presence—a woman who fades into the background, blending in and barely being noticed.

Her story was supposed to be simple: work behind the scenes, live a quiet life, and help others however she could. But as fate would have it, she crossed paths with Professor Egghead and The Tender—two con men whose chaotic, self-destructive antics somehow appealed to Clio’s sense of belonging. Egghead, in particular, saw something in her, recognizing her tech skills and quick mind as something more than just “background noise.” He brought her into the fold, not as an equal, but as an essential piece of the team.

Though she may seem like a minor player in the grand scheme of things, Clio’s intellect and abilities are vital. She runs all their comms, hacks into systems, builds gadgets, and even handles some of the more "technical" side of their operations. In many ways, she’s the glue that holds the group together, though few outside of the team know her true worth.

Clio isn’t comfortable in the limelight, and she’s learned to stay in the shadows, letting The Tender and Professor Egghead take the glory (or blame) for their schemes. But deep down, there’s a part of her that wonders what it would be like to step out of the background, to take control of her own destiny and be seen for the genius she truly is. Until then, she’ll continue to work in silence, keeping the wheels turning for those around her, quietly crafting the next piece of their chaotic puzzle.

 

ZANE HOLT (THE FIXER) of the The Clamor Collective

 

 

Real Name: ZANE HOLT (THE FIXER)
Age: 30s (date unknown)
Marital Status: Single
Aliases: Holt, Fixer, Zane
Motivation: Making things happen, at all costs
Occupation:Former Salesmen

 

DEX: 4 STR: 4 BODY: 4
INT: 5 WILL: 5 MIND: 5
INFL: 5 AURA: 5 SPIRIT: 4
INITIATIVE: 14 HERO POINTS: 20

 

Skills:

• Negotiation (Underworld): 9
  • Zane has an exceptional ability to negotiate deals under pressure. His ability to smooth-talk, threaten, and bribe has made him a trusted fixer for the group, often handling the dirty work or making sure that their shady dealings run smoothly.
• Brawling (Street-Fighting): 8
  • Whether it’s in the ring or on the street, Zane knows how to handle himself in hand-to-hand combat. He’s well-versed in boxing, street brawling, and dirty fighting tactics, making him a physical force when needed.
• Intimidation (Verbal/Physical): 8
  • Zane can both talk tough and back it up. He knows how to scare people into submission, whether it’s through his presence or a good old-fashioned threat.
• Survival: 6
  • Zane’s resourceful and has an innate ability to adapt quickly, using his street smarts and instinct to navigate dangerous situations and get out of tight spots.
• Tech (Basic Hacking/Surveillance): 4
  • While not as advanced as Clio, Zane has learned enough to assist in basic tech tasks like surveillance and hacking when the need arises.

Advantages:

• Physical Presence: Zane is the kind of person you notice when he walks into a room. His broad build and confident posture make him an imposing figure.
• Master Negotiator: Zane can talk his way out of almost any situation, using a combination of charm, intimidation, and bribes to secure the best outcomes for the team.
• Streetwise: Having spent much of his life on the streets and in the criminal underworld, Zane knows how to read people, navigate shady deals, and find the best way out of any mess.
• Loyal: Zane may be rough around the edges, but he’s fiercely loyal to The Tender. He respects his “good man” persona and believes in the cause, even if he doesn’t fully understand the other members.

Drawbacks:

• Overconfidence: Zane’s cocky nature sometimes gets the best of him. He tends to overestimate his ability to control a situation, which can lead to trouble when things go awry.
• Lack of Intellectual Depth: Zane isn’t the smartest member of the team. While he has great street smarts, he often relies on others to handle the intellectual side of their operations.
• Emotional Vulnerability: Despite his tough exterior, Zane has a deep-seated fear of being abandoned or overlooked. He masks this vulnerability with bravado but will lash out when he feels like he's being left behind.

Equipment:

• Custom Brass Knuckles:

  • BODY: 4
  • EV: 6
  • Special: A weapon designed to increase the impact of his punches. Zane uses these for quick, brutal takedowns when things get physical.
  • Description: A pair of knuckles reinforced with brass, giving Zane a significant advantage in close combat.

• Old-School Revolver:

  • BODY: 5
  • EV: 7
  • Range: 4
  • Special: A reliable weapon that he keeps hidden for emergencies.
  • Description: Zane carries an old revolver that’s seen better days, but it’s his go-to weapon when he needs to make a statement or defend himself.

• Surveillance Gear (Basic):

  • BODY: 3
  • EV: 5
  • Special: Basic surveillance equipment for gathering information.
  • Description: Zane is capable of setting up simple surveillance devices, like hidden cameras or listening devices, to help the team stay informed during operations.

Wealth: 4

Background:

Zane Holt, known as The Fixer, is the muscle and the negotiator of The Tender and Professor Egghead’s ragtag group. Born and raised in the rougher parts of the city, Zane learned early that the world only responds to strength—whether it’s physical or verbal. With his imposing figure and silver tongue, Zane made a name for himself in the criminal underworld, handling situations that required a firm hand and quick thinking.

Zane’s life has always been about survival. His early years were spent bouncing from foster home to foster home, and by the time he hit his late teens, he was already involved in the criminal world, working as an enforcer for various low-level gangs. His ability to talk his way out of tight situations and his knack for intimidation caught the attention of Professor Egghead, who saw potential in Zane as someone who could handle the dirty work for the team.

Despite his rough edges, Zane respects The Tender as a man who “sees things clearly.” While Egghead’s outlandish schemes often make him uncomfortable, Zane believes in The Tender’s twisted vision and feels like he’s found a place to prove his worth. Zane’s role in the group is to handle negotiations, act as the physical enforcer, and clean up the mess when things go wrong.

Though he lacks the intellectual genius of Egghead or the tech know-how of Clio, Zane knows his strengths. He’s the one who gets the job done when things go south, whether it’s by using force, charm, or a well-timed threat. Zane might not be the brains of the operation, but when things get ugly, he’s the one who steps up and fights for the group.

 

 

Professor Egghead, the Con man of The Clamor Collective

 

Real Name: Reginald "Reggie" Baxter
Age: 50s (date unknown)
Marital Status: Married
Aliases: Professor Egghead, The Professor of Cons
Motivation: Latching onto the Tender for easy Fame.
Occupation: Former Scammer

 

DEX: 3 STR: 3 BODY: 3
INT: 4 WILL: 7 MIND: 8
INFL: 6 AURA: 6 SPIRIT: 5
INITIATIVE: 13 HERO POINTS: 20

 

Skills:

• Deception (Conning): 10
• Speech (B.S.): 9
• Leadership (Cult-Like Influence): 5
• Streetwise (Scams): 8
• Intimidation (Verbal): 6
• Tactics (Manipulation): 7

Advantages:

• Silver Tongue: Professor Egghead can talk his way out of nearly any situation. His persuasive speech and con-man tactics make him seem genuine, even when he’s full of nonsense.
• Charismatic Leader: He has a knack for building a following, attracting people to his cause—even when the cause is totally absurd. He believes that The Tender is a "good man," and he works tirelessly to convince others of the same.
• Quick Thinking: Egghead can adapt quickly, switching stories or tactics mid-con, making him a difficult opponent to pin down.
• Unbelievable Confidence: Egghead’s complete lack of self-doubt makes him seem more convincing, even when his claims are outlandish.

Drawbacks:

• Pathological Liar: He can’t help himself. Even when caught in a lie, Egghead will double down, making everything worse.
• Overconfidence: Egghead tends to overestimate his own abilities, leading him to take dangerous risks and make outlandish claims.
• Easy to Manipulate: Though he’s good at manipulating others, Egghead can be just as easily manipulated by those who are even more charismatic or convincing.

Equipment:

• Outlandish "Inventions":

  • BODY: 3
  • EV: 5
  • Special: Fake gadgets or inventions that look impressive but are completely useless or absurd.
  • Description: Egghead carries a series of "inventions" that look flashy but are little more than a scam. Whether it’s a device that claims to amplify his voice or a gadget that promises to "control minds," they are all props to keep up his act.

• Con-Man Outfit:

  • BODY: 3
  • EV: 4
  • Special: Flashy, attention-grabbing attire, designed to look expensive and smart but is really just for show.
  • Description: His outfit includes bright colors, slick fabric, and a fake air of sophistication. It helps him look the part of a "genius" or "scientist," despite having no real credentials.

Wealth: 4

Background:

Professor Egghead is the kind of man who can talk his way into—or out of—anything. With his giant shaved head, goatee, and exaggerated personality, he’s always the center of attention. He’s a con artist at heart, capable of spinning outrageous stories and selling ideas so ludicrous that people almost believe them. He’s not an actual scientist or genius, but he’s built an entire persona around being one—especially when it comes to exploiting people for his own gain.

Egghead's most recent obsession? The Tender, whom he believes is a misunderstood "good man" doing the right thing. Egghead attaches himself to The Tender’s side, convinced that together, they can change the world—one outrageous lie at a time. He spouts nonsense about how "The Tender is the true voice of the people" and how "only the real ones understand the heart of the world." His belief that The Tender has some form of purity, even though their antics are nothing but chaos, only amplifies Egghead’s confidence in his ability to manipulate those around him.

Egghead will tell anyone who listens that he’s working on the next great "invention," but his inventions are nothing but junk, designed to impress the gullible and distract them long enough for him to work his cons. He’s a master at faking genius and convincing others that they’re in the presence of someone truly remarkable—when in fact, he’s just a self-serving con man.

When together, Egghead and The Tender are a chaotic force—two men who believe they can manipulate the world to fit their narrative. The lies, the speeches, the crazy stories they tell, it’s all a game to them. The Tender plays on people’s emotions, and Egghead plays on their gullibility. And though neither of them has anything of real value, their combined charisma and con skills make them a dangerous pair.