Warner Bros. Home Entertainment and DC Animation continue to offer fans new DC superhero adventures with Batman Unlimited: Animal Instincts, a film that does NOT seem to be connected to the animated shared universe storylines being told in features like Justice League Throne of Atlantis and Batman vs. Robin.

Instead, Animal Instincts will help to kick off a "Batman Unlimited" line of animated films, free digital animated shorts, and merchandise (a Mattel toy line) as part of DC/WB's new toy/animation synergy. As is probably clear from watching the trailer above, this new venture (which also includes an upcoming "DC Super Friends" line) is being targeted more toward young kids, as opposed to the more mature animated features we've seen as of late (ex: Assault on Arkham).

CBR provided the exclusive first-look at the Animal Instincts trailer, along with the following synopsis:

“Batman Unlimited: Animal Instincts"... finds the caped crusader clashing with his nemesis the Penguin — and this time they’ve both brought friends along for the fight... Penguin’s Animilitia — featuring Killer Croc, Cheetah, Man-Bat and Silverback — gnash their teeth at Batman and his team of heroic allies: Red Robin, Nightwing, Flash and Green Arrow.

Batman Unlimited Animal Instincts Trailer
Flash, Nightwing, Red Robin, Green Arrow and Batman in 'Animal Instincts'

The first thing fans are likely to pounce on (animal pun) is the look and character/costume designs in the film. Batman, Red Robin, Nightwing, Arrow, Flash - these known figures in the DC Universe have clearly been given a makeover of sorts, and not everyone is going to be happy with what they see.

The general design of the film also looks oddly slimmed-down and angular compared to the classic look of Bruce Timm-era Batman: The Animated Series; but since this film is primarily aimed at a younger crowd, we doubt they'll notice that much. The colorful palette, plus lineup of side characters and animal-themed villains, pretty much guarantee that kids will be registering and remembering this film's character roster - all the way into their local toy store.

Batman Unlimited: Animal Instincts will be available on Blu-ray, DVD and Digital HD, May 12th, 2015.