Black Spider (New 52)

*"I might be locked in here with you, but I'm not like you or Waller's trash. I was a superhero, but they called me a vigilante, put me away. Just made it easier to kill trash."*

## **Summary**

In the New 52 continuity of DC Comics, the character of **Eric Needham**, primarily known as **Black Spider**, is reimagined while retaining key aspects of his identity as a skilled vigilante with a complex moral compass. Initially introduced as a small-time criminal, Needham's life takes a dramatic turn following a personal tragedy linked to his criminal activities. This event propels him to take on the mantle of Black Spider, a vigilante who targets drug dealers and criminals, using lethal force to achieve his version of justice. His methods and motivations place him in a grey area between heroism and vigilantism, often bringing him into conflict with both criminals and heroes alike. Black Spider's abilities are a combination of his exceptional martial arts skills, proficiency in using various firearms, and adept strategic thinking. He does not possess superhuman powers, but his combat training, physical conditioning, and acumen in stealth tactics make him a formidable opponent. His costume, equipped with an array of technological gadgets, and his use of specialized firearms and poisons, further enhance his effectiveness in his crusade against crime. Eric Needham's relationships and interactions are defined by his relentless war on crime. His vigilantism often puts him at odds with law enforcement and superheroes who disapprove of his lethal methods. Black Spider operates mostly solo but has been involved with groups like the Suicide Squad, where his uncompromising stance on crime and punishment often clashes with other members' more morally ambiguous approaches. These dynamics highlight the complexities of his character, torn between a desire for vengeance and a quest for redemption. In the New 52 storylines, Black Spider's narrative arc explores the consequences of his vigilantism, both on his psyche and his impact on Gotham's criminal underworld. His involvement in various plots, from targeting drug rings to being coerced into the Suicide Squad's deadly missions, showcases his skills and the challenges he faces in his solitary war against crime. While he seeks to cleanse the city of its criminal elements, his actions often raise questions about justice, morality, and the fine line between heroism and extremism. The character of Black Spider in the New 52 embodies the darker aspects of vigilante justice, adding a complex and morally ambiguous figure to the DC Universe.

## **Base**

### **Output:**

#### Physical Strength

* While injured and on sedatives, he is able to beat up and kill multiple Belle Reve inmates.
* Takes out Basilisk guards while attempting to escape their base.
* Downs Amanda Waller with a hit.

### **Defense:**

#### Blunt

* Tanks getting thrown into a stand.
* Tanks being hit with a trash can by a telekinetic and then manhandled by another meta in the sewer.

#### Endurance

* Survives getting shot but is later hospitalized.
* Handles being stabbed by Waller.

### **Speed:**

#### Combat

* Uses a smoke bomb to escape from sight of the rest of the Suicide Squad with an innocent woman in tow.
* Jumps between Harley and El Diablo as she tries to impale him.
* Uses a smoke bomb to dodge a gunshot from Amanda Waller, then getting behind her and knocking her down.
* Fights Amanda Waller in CQC for a moment before losing.

### **Misc:**

#### Gear

* Armed with smoke bombs.
* Knocks out Captain Boomerange with a shock gun.