Batman Arkham Asylum

9/10

Batman Arkham Asylum Screenshots

Game Description

Finally breaking the string of less than stellar Batman games, Batman: Arkham Asylum brings an innovative combat system that really gives players a taste of what it's like to fight crime as the Caped Crusader. Reprising their roles as Batman and The Joker, Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamil add some much needed gravitas to the games storyline. Batman fanboys will love the attention to detail and casual gamers are going to enjoy the thrill-a-minute beat 'em up sections.

The game begins with Batman escorting the Joker into Arkham Asylum, Gotham City's home for dangerous lunatics. The tables are quickly turned as Joker and his clown moll Harley Quinn release the inmates and mental patients and take over the hospital. Batman fights in a seamless "Freeform Combat" that constantly links together all of his attacks based on his position. Using only three buttons, the Dark Knight can perform bone breaking kicks, behind the head punches, and stunning aerial take downs. The average player will be performing awe-inspiring moves that never look scripted or stilted, really selling the notion that you're fighting just like Batman would.

It wouldn't be Batman without some stealth, though. Players can sneak around in the dark, Gothic styled hospital interior to sneak up on enemies or swing from the rafters and startle an unsuspecting inmate from above. By scaring enemies or silently taking them out one by one, you can earn special takedown cinemas and reduce the effectiveness of the armed guards.

More than just an action game, this is more of a "Batman Sim." Players not only fight like Batman but get to put themselves into the role of the world's greatest detective. By using forensic tools and gadgets, Batman can solve puzzles and put his book smarts to the test.

DLC for Arkham Asylum is planned to be released in the form of bonus levels and training missions. Right now, the PS3 will be getting levels where players can take control of the Joker and wreak havoc, although it is expected these will be available for download on Xbox Live. Future levels, characters, and bonuses are also planned for the future.