Batman: Arkham Asylum
Release Date: August 25, 2009
Action, TPP, DC Comics, Batman, comics, superheroes, beat 'em up, singleplayer
Steam
A dark action game starring the popular comic book superhero. Batman: Arkham Asylum was made by the Rocksteady developer studio, makers of Urban Chaos: Riot Response. The game's story revolves around Batman's struggle against the Joker. After capturing the villain, Bat transports the captive to titular psychiatric hospital.
Batman: Arkham Asylum for PC, X360 and PS3 is a production telling about the new adventures of the titular Dark Knight, that combines elements of adventure, fighting and stealth game.
Story
Plot of Arkham Asylum for PC, X360 and PS3 does not refer directly to neither the movies nor the comic books, although it clearly draws inspiration from them. It is worth noting that the screenplay was written by Paul Dini, who is one of the authors of Batman: The Animated Series. Action of the game begins shortly after Batman once again manages to capture Joker and brings the villain to the eponymous mental institution. Shortly after the arrival Joker somehow escapes. Furthermore, it turns out that the whole thing was a part of his meticulous plan. By controlling Batman we must lead to the re-imprisonment of all escaped criminals. During the game we meet many other (other than the Joker himself) villains characteristic to this universe. These include Victor Zsasz, Killer Croc, Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy.
Gameplay
We spend most of the in-game time exploring subsequent locations and neutralizing prisoners, which takes place in two main ways. The game's classic combat mechanics consist of deriving quick hits, which can be combined in more effective combos. Additionally, in some places it is possible or even necessary to act in stealth. In this case, the key to success is to skilfully surprise your opponents, as well as use elements of the environment (including things like gargoyle sculptures). During the breaks between eliminating our enemies we solve puzzles and run simple investigations (following DNA traces, searching for specific odors etc.). As we progress we gain experience points, awarded for defeating enemies, completing quests, and finding secret items. With each new level we gain access to, among others, new types of attacks, better armor, and unique gadgets. The latter play an important role, as Batman uses inventory items both to effectively eliminate enemies (his famous batarangs) and to overcome numerous obstacles (e.g. batrope or explosive gel to blow up walls).
Game modes
Apart from the main single player campaign, the developers implemented also an additional Challenge Mode. Here we get access to two types of play, encompassing respectively mass elimination of enemies or acting in stealth. In order to successfully complete these stages we have to exhibit good reflexes and thorough knowledge of Batman's skills.
Technology
During the game we visit many different locations, including a hospital, a prison block, botanical garden, a vast mansion and even the Batcave. Game offers a lot of freedom of action, and we can freely return to once visited locations. We observe the main character's struggle from a third-person perspective, although in some moments, the camera will shift its position. There are also very impressive cutscenes starring Batman, Joker and several other persons currently residing in the Asylum.
Last updated on January 3, 2016
Last Update: September 27, 2009
Batman: Arkham Asylum Game Guide & Walkthrough
This unofficial guide to Batman: Arkham Asylum video game contains all the information on Batman's latest adventure.
Videos and Screens
[1:21] Batman: Arkham Asylum The Challenge Map Pack
[1:37] Batman: Arkham Asylum Nvidia PhysX
The main pros of the game
- Storyline: The narrative of the game is highly praised, with many users rating it four stars, indicating a strong and engaging plot that resonates well with players.
- Graphics: The visuals received positive feedback, with users appreciating the graphics and overall artistic design of the game.
- Atmosphere: The game's atmosphere is highlighted as immersive and well-crafted, contributing to the overall experience of being in Arkham Asylum.
- Value for Money: Many users felt that the game was worth the price they paid, suggesting that it offers good content for the investment.
- Superhero Appeal: Fans of Batman and superhero games consider it one of the best in its genre, making it a must-play for enthusiasts.
The main cons of the game
- Combat Mechanics: Some users found the brawl combat to be below par, indicating dissatisfaction with the fighting mechanics.
- Stealth Gameplay: The stealth elements were described as "cranky" and "weird," leading to frustration for some players, particularly those new to the genre.
- Riddles/Puzzles: A significant number of players expressed frustration with the riddles, finding them tedious and detracting from the enjoyment of the game. This led some to feel that they were forced to engage in activities they did not enjoy.
The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users
- Replayability: Many users indicated that they did not find the game enjoyable enough to play again, suggesting a lack of replay value.
- Improved Combat: There is a call for better combat mechanics, as some players felt the fighting system could be more refined and satisfying.
- Less Emphasis on Riddles: A desire for fewer riddles or more engaging alternatives to the puzzle-solving elements was noted, as it detracted from the overall experience for some players.
Summary
- Overall, while the game is celebrated for its storytelling, graphics, and atmosphere, it faces criticism for its combat mechanics and the puzzle elements that some players found frustrating.
Summary generated on:
GAMERS Score
Average score from 10940 votes. 1447 players anticipated the game.
11
GAMES
in Batman: Arkham Game Series
Game Series
Batman: Arkham Series
Based on the DC Comics license, an action game series starring the Bat-Man. The series is overseen by UK-based Rocksteady Studios, which since 2010 has been owned by Warner Bros. Games. Nevertheless, over the years, such development teams as NetherRealm Studios, WB Games Montreal, Armature Studio, Turbine Entertainment and Camouflaj have also had their fingers in the series.
11 video games
Batman: Arkham Asylum Summary
Platforms:
PC / Windows September 15, 2009
PlayStation 3 August 25, 2009
Xbox 360 August 25, 2009
Developer: Rocksteady Studios / Iron Galaxy Studios (PC)
Publisher: Square Enix
Batman: Arkham Asylum System Requirements
PC / Windows
Recommended: Pentium 4 3 GHz, 2 GB RAM, graphic card 512 MB (GeForce 7900 or better), 8 GB HDD, Windows XP/Vista
Xbox 360
Supports: Xbox Live
Batman Arkham Collection Confirmed by Rocksteady
Yesterday, there was a leak on Amazon that suggested that Batman Arkham Collection should appear on Xbox One and PlayStation 4 in September this year. Today this information has been confirmed by the developer Rocksteady.
video games
Agnes Adamus
July 8, 2019
Batman: Arkham Knight delayed. Arkham Asylum and Arkham City will release on PS4 and XONE
Warner Bros has announced that Batman: Arkham Knight has been delayed until June 23.
video games
March 24, 2015