Spoilers ahead Arkham series.
Rocksteady's Batman: Arkham Asylum was the first Batman game I ever played, and even though I thought I was a huge fan at the time, this game kicked my love for the caped crusader into overdrive. When I was 13 Batman: Arkham Asylum launched, and running this game for the first time on my PS3 remains one of my fondest gaming memories. Little did I know that three more amazing sequels would be part of my future.
I've always been a huge comic book fan since I was little. Comic books are actually how my dad helped me learn to read, and one superhero that he owned a lot of comics of was Batman. Aside from comics, I gravitated towards all things superhero, especially in the DC universe. Batman: The Animated Series and Cartoon Network is animated Justice League series are still a staple in my house. I didn't need convincing that Batman was awesome, but Arkham Asylum I actually felt like him for the first time. I've played the main four games over the years, but never marathoned them until recently. I finally had a block in my schedule that allowed me to inject vigilante justice right into my veins, and after a few days of ridding Gotham of villains, I finally have my official rating.
This list excludes Arkhamverse spin-off like Shadow and Blackgate as well as expansion.
4
Arkham Origins
I know it got blown up when it first came out due to bugs, but that's not why it's not last on the list for me. I look at it with a new perspective and when I compare it to the rest of the series, it just doesn't break the mold like the others in the series. In general, I'm usually not a fan of prequels anyway, but Arkham Origins still has a solid story that kept me interested. The progression of the characters was handled quite well, but in terms of the overall gameplay and exploration, everything sat right there for me. There isn't enough novelty to keep me invested for too long, and after playing its predecessor, Origins unfortunately it started to become more like a chore. But it's far from a bad game. If I were giving letter grades right now, it would still be a solid B, but it just doesn't fit with the rest of the Arkhamverse games.
i will say Arkham Origins it has some amazing boss fights that I found incredibly satisfying, especially Deathstroke.
3
Arkham Knight
Even though it's the latest entry in the main series, I have a feeling Arkham Knight trying to do too much. This Batman: Arkham the game world is too open, which prevents its narrative from being as focused, and the over-reliance on the Batmobile really gives me a headache. Not to mention the apparent reveal of Jason Todd as the titular Arkham Knight, something that everyone correctly predicted before the game launched. It's still a good time, but it's not as engaging Arkham City and Arkham Asylum they are.
Sometimes going bigger doesn't necessarily mean going better and Arkham Knight is a clear example of this. However, while I do miss the story and the exploration is slightly underwhelming, Arkham Knight shines with its cinematic moments that are filled to the brim with action. There's a lot going on in this game, but thankfully the highlights still pack a punch. Overall, I really enjoyed this game, even though it didn't impress me in the same way Arkham City and Arkham Asylum he did
While the Batmobile has overstayed its welcome, the mechanics are really well done.
2
Arkham Asylum
Arkham Asylum's tone reigns supreme in the Arkhamverse, especially when it comes to the feel of Gotham. Honestly, I'm usually more of a fan of linear storytelling, so this would make sense Arkham Asylum to be my number one, but considering all the other posts, I feel like the closed environment hinders the experience a bit.
Great benefit Arkham AsylumHowever, the thing about solid linear storytelling is that it keeps the pace tight and focused, making it much easier to put together a strong story. However, when it came to the game's final showdown with The Joker, I was left more disappointed than I expected. It's been years since I started the first chapter and I think my preferences have really changed since then because I'm not a Titan Joker fan at all. What makes the Joker such an effective villain for me is that he's a lanky menace who celebrates chaos and doesn't need a case of roid rage to get things done. Despite its minor flaws, Arkham Asylum is still a fantastic way to kick off a larger series.
1
Arkham City
After playing the main four Arkham inputs, that's clear to me Arkham City is the most comprehensive chapter of the entire series. Between introducing a mostly open Gotham, missions, mechanics and characters, and a story that has a truly fantastic ending, Arkham City ticks all the boxes for me. Its open environment isn't too overwhelming and the story and missions never bored me. I'm considering Arkham City to actually be one of the best Batman-centric stories in general, not just in gaming. The image of Batman carrying the Joker's lifeless body still hits me right in the heart. It's a moment that brings everything full circle to the image of Cain and Abel shown at the very beginning of the story, and even though I'm expecting it now, I still get chills.
While the first two games in the series were better for me than the second half, I still crave more stories within the framework Arkham universe (they are not like Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League). Arkham Shadow was an amazing return to form, but I don't really care for VR. Luckily, a good friend of mine let me play his Meta Quest 3, but it's definitely not my preferred way to play. Every now and then there are rumors of another Arkham game will appear, but only time will tell if they are accurate. Until then, I'm just thankful that there are four amazing Batman games for you to enjoy.
- Released
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October 18, 2011
- ESRB
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T for Teens: Alcohol Reference, Blood, Profanity, Sexually Motivated Themes, Tobacco Use, Violence
- Engine
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Unreal Engine 3
