What if Batman let the Joker die? | ComicBloop

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What if Batman let the Joker die
There are many different versions of how Batman letting the Joker die would play out, with various comics, games, and films exploring this very idea. However, most stories agree on a few key outcomes: the death would create a power vacuum in Gotham, shatter Batman's moral code, and lead to disastrous consequences.
The breakdown of Batman's moral code
Batman's "no-kill" rule is the one line that separates him from his villains. In almost every interpretation, if he willingly lets the Joker die, he loses his way and becomes a killer.
The Batman Who Laughs: In the Dark Nights: Metal storyline, Batman finally snaps and kills the Joker. Upon death, the Joker releases a toxin from his body that infects Batman, transforming him into the murderous, multiversal villain known as the Batman Who Laughs.
The Damned Universe: In the graphic novel Batman: Damned, a fatally wounded Batman allows the Joker to fall to his death from a bridge. He later accepts judgment from the Spectre for breaking his moral code.
A broken man: In most scenarios, Batman's guilt would consume him, forcing him to abandon the mantle. For a time, he might consider turning himself in for judgment, or retire completely, leaving Gotham's protection to someone like Nightwing.
A power vacuum and escalating chaos in Gotham
The Joker's death would not bring peace to Gotham. Instead, his absence would ignite a new kind of anarchy.
Filling the void: As seen in the video game Batman: Arkham Knight, the Joker's death in Arkham City leaves a power vacuum that other villains immediately rush to fill. In that instance, the Scarecrow is able to unite Gotham's rogues to execute a full-scale takeover of the city.
Inspiring others: Some stories suggest that copycat killers and new villains would rise up to fill the void, with criminals being inspired by the chaotic legacy of the original Joker.
The "Joker War": The conclusion of the 2020 Joker War storyline saw Batman refuse to save the Joker, and in the aftermath, the Joker's twisted influence lived on through various clown-themed gangs and other criminals.
Potential positive outcomes
While most stories focus on the negative, some interpretations suggest the Joker's death could lead to a better future for at least one person.
Harley Quinn's reformation: In the Injustice universe, the Joker's death at the hands of Superman allows Harley Quinn to be free of his manipulation. She eventually joins Batman's resistance, proving that some can recover from the Clown Prince's toxic influence.
Batman's inaction versus active killing
A distinction exists between Batman actively killing the Joker and simply not saving him. This is explored in storylines such as Injustice and Arkham City.
Injustice: Superman kills the Joker in a fit of rage and grief. This event marks Superman's transition into a ruthless, authoritarian tyrant, illustrating the dangers of actively killing a nemesis.
Arkham City: A dying Joker stabs Batman, causing him to drop the cure that could save both of them. As the Joker lies dying, Batman tells him, "Even after everything you've done, I would have saved you." This scene explores the moral weight of letting the Joker die from his own actions, rather than Batman's.