Simon Dark is a DC hero with a side that’s, well, dark. He is a Frankenstein-like man who is superstrong, bulletproof, impervious to amputation, and has some magical knowledge. Steve Niles and Scott Hampton created Simon, and they set his stories in Gotham City, although he does not interact with well known citizens and heroes like Batman.

When Simon Dark was introduced in Simon Dark #1 (October 2007), he had amnesia but had discovered his superhuman abilities. He became the protector of the Village neighborhood in Gotham, where he was welcomed despite his scary appearance. Simon is such a notorious figure that people sing a nursery rhyme about him, how he lurks in the shadows, and how he makes bad people pay.

It was later revealed that Simon Dark was made out of the bodies of 20 guys. The medical genius was desperate to realize his vision, and used dark magic and science to bring Simon to life. Simon wasn’t the only person in the comic who was made using that method. Ironically, Simon was made to stop the cult responsible for his creation.

Simon went through transformations and character growth as the series continued. He was originally childlike, scared, and confused about his existence. Once he found his place in the community, Simon became more confident and comfortable with himself.

His powers also became more prevalent, like the power to read minds, change the appearance of his face, and see other people’s pasts and futures by touching them. By doing magic rituals, Simon can transport himself and others to different dimensions and he can see far-off places or into the future. Simon had three shapeshifting familiars who were among the creatures he was meant to kill, but he converted them to his cause.