Batman: Arkham Asylum

Greetings, I know that a few readers are not fans of the superhero genre but I feel that Batman: Arkham Asylum deserves a mention. The game is well received by many critics and it isn’t hard to see why, everything seems to fit perfectly. I particularly like the dark edge which has been given to the Caped Crusader in recent media such as the films, this darkness is carried on into Arkham Asylum. I feel that is more in tune with the character, Batman or Bruce Wayne, due to the events that shaped him into the hero he is.  

The plot is rather simple but later extends into something much bigger. At the start the usual prison in which the rivals of Batman are contained is damaged in a fire, meaning all prisoners are to be transported to a Lunatic Asylum on an island named Arkham Asylum.  The Dark Knight had caught the Joker before the story even begins and delivers him to the island not far from Gotham City. Batman escorts his enemy to his cell, along with other Asylum Personnel but the Joker breaks free and soon takes control of Arkham. The Caped Crusader is stuck in the Asylum and must confront many of his worst foes if he hopes to regain power over the facility.

The map is quite large and some areas have riddles, trophies and challenges from the Riddler, as well as tapes covering some thoughts or interviewers of different characters. These are not essential to complete but there are achievements for doing so. The combat can be quite hard, especially if the enemies are armed with machineguns and should then be taken out silently.  All actors portrayed their roles brilliantly but Mark Hamill, best known for his role as Luke Skywalker in Star Wars, brings a new level of insanity to the Joker. In conclusion, this is a brilliant game and is a must have for any fan of Batman. The sequel promises to be as entertaining as the original. The fifth chapter of Unforgotten Rivalry is up in Warehouse 17.

Plot=8/10

Characters=9/10

Graphics=9/10

Overall= 9/10

Quote of the day

Daniel... Do not wish to interfere with operation of ship, but perhaps you should pull up sharply...

Rorschach

Watchmen