I’m not even really sure how to begin this game’s review. It opens into a dark, beautiful, hi-resolution world that I didn’t believe Eidos could provide. As you escort the captured Joker into Arkham Asylum after capturing him during one of his evil plots you are treated to the opening credits, and are allowed to soak in the gorgeous environments they’ve built for you. The voice-overs are fantastic, almost every voice actor being the original from the animated series.
Above:Batman teaching the Joker why being lippy is bad
The free-flow combat system is almost perfect, allowing you to switch gracefully between moves, and leap effortlessly from henchman to henchman. A spidey-sense like alert will go off above enemies heads to show you when countering is appropriate, and the higher your combos climb the more impressive your attacks, and achievements become.
The stealth take downs are another beautiful addition, whether sneaking up behind your opponents Splinter Cell style, or descending upon them from a gargoyle overhead, every moment in the game is exciting and feels dramatic. The game of course is full of bat-gadgets galore, and includes EVERY Batman villain I can remember except for Cat Woman, I don’t think she made the cut after her horrible video game.
Above: More henchman feel the batfist
If you’re a gamer, if you like super-heroes, if you like good games, this is your game. It has everything to offer, with a basic learning curve, and a gorgeous environment.
I tip my hat to Batman, and its developement staff
Summary
- graphics 10
- story 10
- controls/gameplay 10
- sound 10
- overall 10
I tried to find something to mark the game down on so that it didn’t clear perfect.. and I couldn’t Game Informer said this game had a shot at game of the year the same way that Bioshock did, and I agree. This game rocks. Go Buy It.