The first exclusive cinematic for the 2022 title Gotham Knights. Nevertheless, the cinematic heavily features Nightwing and Batgirl, revealing that they've dated and broken up in the past and that they might soon reconcile.
Nightwing and Batgirl's relationship has always been significant to their characters and stood out among their other romances. The two officially got together in Nightwing #38 in 1999. However, in 2003's Batgirl: Year One, the new canon was established where Robin (Nightwing's childhood alter ego) always had feelings for Batgirl, and she would eventually reciprocate them. Over the years of canon changes, there have been many reasons given for their eventual breakup, including other romances, changing careers, and tension between Nightwing and Batman. However, they always maintain incredible respect for each other and usually end up back together when circumstances allow. From the new cinematic, it seems their story will play a central role in Gotham Knights' story.
On August 5, even Dick Grayson looks at his own butt. Through the rest of the conversation, we learn that this scene occurs after Batman's death and that Nightwing believes he has to live up to Batman's legacy on his own. Barbara, true to her character, convinces him that he's putting too much pressure on himself, and they share a hug. This tender moment hints that the character arcs for both Nightwing and Batgirl may feature repairing their relationship.
Nightwing & Batgirl's Relationship In The Batman Universe
Barbara and Dick haven't always been depicted together in Batman games. The Batman: Arkham games made the confusing decision to pair Barbara up with Tim Drake, the third Robin. Even when it was revealed that Gotham Knights isn't part of Batman: Arkham's universe, fans couldn't be sure the pair's relationship would even be mentioned in Gotham Knights. It's always a welcome addition to games when the history between Nightwing and Batgirl is acknowledged, such as their unique dia other games such as Injustice. However, Gotham Knights has an opportunity to do something unique because all other Batman games are naturally about the caped crusader. Because Gotham Knights focuses entirely on the Bat Family, Nightwing and Batgirl's relationship could play a central role in the overarching plot. Beyond unique dialog and cute cutscenes, including their relationship in the story could improve the drama and character building of Gotham Knights' main plot.
A relationship between Nightwing and Batgirl has been hinted at, but there's still no confirmation it will be a significant element of the story. Still, the chance for players to explore Dick and Barbara's relationship in-game is only one of many interesting elements Batman's death allows in Gotham Knights.
Source: Gotham Knights/YouTube
