5th Feb
From Pashford, "When you hear about a Batman game, you know there are already two problems. First, you should never hear Batman coming — ever. Second, when you actually get the game into your hands, you realize it’s got all of the appeal of a lesser superhero — like that wet blanket Aqua Man. Comic-book based games have fared better than movie-based games, but I think it’s more or less the drawing power of nerds doing each other favors within their own kingdoms. With all this in mind, Batman: Akham Asylum explodes into the fray and offers a healthy dose of subtle efficiency..."
22nd Nov 2009
Mixing beat'em'up parts with stealth platforming, Arkham Asylum is one of the best games of the year and makes good use of the Batman license - even if the plotline annoys some of the fans. After falling into Joker's trap, Batman must re-take Arkham Asylum from him, meeting recurrent characters such as Harley Quinn, Poison Ivy, Bane and Killer Croc. The Riddler appears as a series of challenges in the game's levels, which in the end aren't so hard - you'll likely get them all easily once you have the proper gadgets.
You're also rewarded by your combat performance, stringing combos and using different combat moves. By acquiring enough experience you'll be able to unlock new moves and gadgets - although you'll also have them all unlocked by the end of the game.
Outside the main story mode, there's a set of challenges with online leaderboards, unlockable trophies (a la Smash Bros) and character bios, along interview tapes. All for the fans, and everything is well put together.
The biggest problem with the PC version is a crash-to-desktop error affecting a lot of users that isn't fixed yet. But if you don't stumble upon it, your experience will surely be great.
12th Nov 2009
This is, so far, my Game of the Year 2009. It's not only an excellent action adventure, but a masterpiece. Production values are unbelievably good - graphics, audio, voice acting, everything. Gameplay is excellent - good deals of exploration, stealth, combat, and puzzle-solving. In fact, the developers managed to balance those elements quite well, in such a way that you never get tired or bored.
I guess it all works so well because they made a true Batman game. You feel like Batman - a superhero not because of actual superpowers, but because of training, cunning, and gadgets.
All in all, Batman: Arkham Asylum is an excellent game. Fans of Batman will delight with the best depiction of the Dark Knight in game form. Fans of good action adventure games will be thrilled by the excellent gameplay, and attention to detail. Do yourself a favor and get this game - it's a true classic.
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