According to a report at ComicBook.com (via Variety), Warner Bros. Entertainment has announced two new animated projects based on the "Batman Unlimited" and "DC Super Friends" children's toy lines. These new shows (and toys) feature characters from the DC Comics universe.
"Batman Unlimited" will have two direct-to-video releases. The first one is titled "Animal Instincts," and will pit newly designed versions of Batman, Nightwing, Red Robin, Flash, and Green Arrow against the Penguin's army of robotic animals. This film will be released on May 12, and will be distributed in DVD, Blu-Ray, and Digital HD releases. A sequel will also be released sometime later in 2015.
In addition, "Batman Unlimited" has an order of 22 animated shorts that are each two minutes long. These shorts, as well as any additional content available, can be accessed digitally for free and through an app designed specifically for the youngsters.
The Fisher-Price Imaginext toy line "DC Super Friends" will also be releasing new animated content in the form of 15 three-minute animated shorts. These will also be released through a digital app. The Justice League roster included here will have Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Flash, Cyborg, Aquaman, and Green Lantern (the Hal Jordan flavor) on the roster. It's interesting to note that several of the characters will appear in costumes inspired by DC's New 52 reboot.
These projects continue WB and DC's efforts to bring animation through different venues beyond television. The use of direct-to-video content isn't a new thing, as both companies have an animated movie line that adapts older skewing comic book stories. Digital content also has a precedent with the previous announcement of the "Vixen" mini-series for CW Seed that takes place in the same continuity with the hit shows "Arrow" and "The Flash."
