What role does the color palette play in establishing the mood and setting for Batman comic book stories?

The color palette is crucial for setting the mood in Batman comics. Artists often utilize dark, desaturated blues, grays, and purples to emphasize Gotham's perpetual gloom and Batman's somber nature. Flashes of contrasting vibrant colors, particularly with villains like the Joker, are used to highlight their chaotic presence or psychological impact. Strategic use of reds can convey danger or aggression, while selective warm tones might indicate a fleeting moment of hope or a character's internal warmth, all contributing to the narrative's emotional depth and atmosphere.