Batman: Arkham Asylum
Batman: Arkham Asylum is a video game that consists of 11 releases
Reviewed on Sept. 1, 2009
Arkham Asylum is a very nasty place, but Rocksteady gives you enough tools to make foiling the Joker's latest plot thrilling from start to finish.
Read Jeff Gerstmann's full review
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In Batman: Arkham Asylum, you are the iconic Dark Knight fighting his way through Arkham Asylum to stop the Joker from enacting a sinister plot that would have grave consequences for Gotham City.
Overview
Batman: Arkham Asylum is the new video game based on the iconic caped crusader from the DC Comics line-up, developed by Rocksteady Studios and published by Eidos Interactive alongside Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Inc. and is slated for release on the PC, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360. Players will be able to take control of Batman himself as he fights his way through the familiar and notorious Arkham Aslyum psychiatric hospital to defeat his old nemesis The Joker. Along the way players will encounter the recently released inmates of Arkham some of which will be notable from the comics while others seem to simply be thugs hired by The Joker.The original release date for the game was expected to be June 23rd 2009 for all platforms. However, this was pushed back to August 25th for North America and August 28th for Europe and only the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions of the game will be released on those dates. The reasoning behind the delay according to Eidos is so the game could be '"As close to perfection as possible". A demo of Batman: Arkham Asylum was released on August 7th for the PC, PS3, and Xbox 360.
Further delays have been made to the PC version of the games' release date. With this particular version of the game being pushed back to September 15th in North America and September 18th in Europe. The reasoning for this delay is so the addition of PhysX technology can be added to the game. This is supposedly so the PC version of the game will be more immersive and have better interactive environments for PC players.
Plot
The storyline for Batman: Arkham Asylum was written by Paul Dini, who was the writer, producer, and editor for Batman: The Animated Series and also for Batman Beyond. However, inspiration for the game and its ideas came from the graphic novel Arkham Asylum: A Serious House on Serious Earth, written by Grant Morrison in 1989.
Welcome to the asylum
Before the game begins, The Joker causes a fire at Blackgate Prison, then invades Gotham Town Hall, which results in his capture at the hands of Batman. The fire at Blackgate Prison forces authorities to transfer the Blackgate prisoners to Arkham Asylum. Batman begins the game escorting the Joker through the hallways and corridors of the mental hospital itself, passing some of the facility's inmates along the way, most notably a vicious Killer Croc who is seen shackled in heavy chains and surrounded by multiple guards as they escort him through the Asylum. Eventually, Batman hands the Joker over to the guards and orderlies of Arkham and proceeds to state to Commissioner Gordon that something isn't right, as the Joker essentially handed himself over without much, if any, fight at all.
Still suspicious, Batman watches from an observation room as the Joker is escorted by the Arkham staff to be incarcerated, but escapes his restraints, at which point it is revealed that the Joker's equally psychotic sidekick and quasi-girlfriend, Harley Quinn, has total control over the Asylum's extensive security system. The Joker taunts Batman for falling into his trap and flees deeper into the Asylum, as the Blackgate prisoners, who are revealed to be in collusion with Joker, are freed from their cells.
As Batman travels further through the facility, he finds that Victor Zsasz has escaped confinement and taken a guard hostage. Batman uses stealth to knock out Zsasz without causing collateral damage. A bit later, Batman hears about Arkham Guard Frank Boles, who has long been working for the Joker, and has now helped him escape. Within the observation room, Batman picks up a flask of alcohol dropped by Boles and syncs his cowl vision to detect trace amounts of alcohol Boles has left behind. His trail leads Batman back to the entrance of Intensive Care where he find Boles has been murdered, his corpse left on a cot upright with green paint around his mouth, and a sign on his chest reading, "Dead End." Immediately after, a familiar voice comes over your intercom in the form of The Riddler, who has set up a little game for you, should you choose to accept it. This opens up the Riddler Challenges section of the game. Batman immediately starts a trace program and continues after The Joker.
Batman soon hears that the Joker claims to have placed bombs throughout the city, and is threatening to detonate these bombs if anyone outside of Arkham Island tries to enter. Also, he discovers that Joker has abducted Commissioner Gordon, and instructed Harley to hold him as a prisoner.
Before Batman can reach the room where Harley is keeping Gordon, he is confronted by the Scarecrow, who uses his fear gas to make Batman believe that Gordon was killed. He also makes him envision his dead parents inside of body bags in a morgue. As Batman exits the room, he finds himself inside a nightmarish world along with Scarecrow, who has taken on a monstrous, gigantic form. Batman defeats Scarecrow, which allows him to escape the drug induced realm. Then, he locates and knocks out Harley Quinn, frees Gordon, and barely survives a surprise encounter with Bane by remotely ordering the Batmobile to run him over.
However, this is only the beginning.
Gameplay
Batman: Arkham Asylum's gameplay focuses on the three key concepts that the title character is most famous for: his prowess in hand-to-hand melee combat, silent elimination of enemies from the shadows, and genius skills in investigation, which have earned him the title "the world's greatest detective."FreeFlow Combat
The combat in the game relies on players combining different movements and attacks to help them take down a small and large groups of enemies in a free flowing and fluid combo system that allows players to pick and choose between targets at will. For example, stunning an enemy by swiping Batman's cape into their face will give the player time to counter an incoming attack from another enemy, which may result in Batman delivering a takedown maneuver with some gymnastic style as he moves to deal with the next enemy. Combining attacks, stuns and counters allows players some diversity in how they handle multiple enemies and combat in general.Additionally, the combat has some RPG elements to it in the form of experience points which are gathered by fighting and performing various combos. Accumulating experience points helps towards upgrading Batman's arsenal of gadgets and obtaining more advanced fighting techniques. There is a circular meter running underneath the health bar which fills up as the player gains experience points, so players are aware how close they are to their next opportunity to level-up." The health bar also only appears during combat and, in between fights, will replenish itself. This means that if players barely survive a fight with little health left over, they don't need to worry about finding health packs or items to heal Batman.
Invisible Predator
A stealth gameplay mechanic is featured in certain sections of the game, but rarely in the traditional sense of stealth gameplay that usually follows the pattern of sneaking around trying to avoid contact with the enemy at all costs. In Batman: Arkham Asylum the stealth gameplay has been dubbed 'predatory' gameplay where the players focus is to strike fear into and intimidate the enemies they encounter instead, eliminating them one by one or in small groups using silent takedowns, explosions, and environmental fixtures such as gargoyles or fragile walls and glass ceilings.Players can use the bodies of enemies or their cries for help to attract the attention of other enemies in the area (or, later in the game, suicide collars that create an alarm as soon as an enemy is unconscious). This can allow Batman to, for example, slip through a doorway without being noticed now th at those guarding the door have moved away to inspect the cries for help, or players can stalk or lay a trap for the enemies who come to inspect a fallen comrade's body and take them out individually.
Using the investigation mode in Batman's visor will allow players to monitor the heart rate of nearby enemies and see what effect their actions are having on them.
Detective Vision
Players will be able to use Batman's visor and turn on 'investigation' mode which will tint the screen blue and highlight points of interest such as a door switch or other objects in the environment that Batman can interact with. As well as show the location of enemies (even if they are behind cover) what weapons they have and will scan items into your database as well. Using the visor will provide players with a tactical advantage to plan out a course of action before engaging enemies in combat and allow them to complete the various puzzle solving aspects of the game as well.Gadgets
Batman collects a multitude of gadgets through out the game which will help in invisible predator,combat and just exploring for Riddler challenges and continuing the game onwards. Grapnel Gun
The grapnel gun is a gas powered pistol that fires a piton attached to a high-tinsel wire, which has the ability to retract that line while accommodating the weight of the user. It has the ability to penetrate or affix itself to most surfaces and provide a stable anchor for the Dark Knight to elevate himself to a more desirable position.
Batarang
The player begins the game with the batarang and continues to use it as a valuable weapon over the course of the game. During invisible predator gameplay the batarang can be used to stun enemies that are not aware of batman allowing the player to excucute a ground take down for a nice silent K.O, once the player purchases a upgrade the batarang can be used to stun numerous enemies allowing the player to quickly do a ground take down or so the player can regroup and survey the are around him before smashing a few more heads in. The batarang can also be used in exploration to press buttons as well as to cut rope (including rope that batman has used to string someone up with the inverted takedown). The batarang can be upgraded over the course of the game.
Multi-batarang
The multi-batarang is a upgrade for the batarang that allows the player to carry 2 and then 3 (when fully upgraded) batarangs which can be thrown at the same time to stun 3 enemies. After being thrown the multi-batarang needs a slight recharge time before being able to be thrown again.
Sonic batarang
The sonic batarang is a upgrade for the batarang that can be used to attract the attention of guards and once upgraded can overload the suicide collar of a nearby enemy knocking him out as well as stunning any nearby enemies.
Bat Claw
The Batclaw is a strong rope that batman can extend to pull far away objects. It can be used to grab enemies, as well as removing ventilation ducts from far away. The batclaw is later upgraded such that three ropes are used to grab things allowing for batman to break walls from a distance.
Explosive Gel
The explosive gel, as its name implies, is a jelly like substance that batman can spray on and explode later when he chooses to do so. It has three charges and so only three explosive gels can be planted at one time. A later upgrade allows batman to individually explode a planted gel independently of any other planted gels.
Line Launcher
The Line Launcher is a gas powered pistol that fires two pitons, in opposite directions, attached to high strength wires. Whereas the Grapnel Gun is designed to quickly move the user to a higher position in the environment, this device is concerned with the quick traversal of lateral obstacles. The two pitons bury themselves in parallel objects and allows the user to zip between the two points, after which the pitons release and the lines wind back into the device.
Riddler Challenges
Optionally, Batman can collect trophies hidden by The Riddler, solve his riddles, pick up interview tapes of the key villains and find hidden plaques from "The Spirit of Amadeus Arkham" that Batman can translate, illuminating a dark secret of Arkham Asylum. When Riddler hacks into Batman's comms, Batman immediately starts a trace program.Along the way, Riddler taunts Batman, dismissing his skills as a detective. When you complete 237 of 240 challenges, a display pops up telling Batman the location from which Riddler is transmitting. Upon completing the 240th challenge Riddler comes over the comms again, angry that Batman has beaten him. In the background, you hear sirens approaching, and before Riddler can complete his supposed plan, the police bust in and arrest him.
Upgrades (WayneTech)
Combat Upgrades
- Special Combo Throw
Allows Batman to perform an unblockable grab and throw after achieving a combo score of x8. Can be directed to inflict damage on multiple targets. Batman can continue to chain attacks after a special combo move.
- Special Combo Takedown
Allows Batman to perform an unblockable instant takedown after achieving a combo score of x8. Batman can continue to chain to chain attacks after a Special Combo move.
- Special Combo Boost
Allows Special Combo Moves to be executed after achieving a combo score of x5 instead of x8.
- Combo Batarang
Powers up the Batarang during combos so that it can be used to knock down thugs.
- Critical Combo Strikes
Doubles the power of normal combo strikes when strikes are timed perfectly. Increases combo score by x2 for each strike, allowing for quicker activation of Special Combo Moves.
Predator Upgrade
- Inverted Takedown
Allows Batman to swoop down and grab assailants as they pass under gargoyles and leave them strung up underneath.
Health Upgrades
- Armor Upgrade v1
Military grade spun gara-aramid fibers molded into the Batsuit chest piece provide greater protection from attack. Adds an extra 1/4 to Batman's health bar.
- Armor Upgrade v2
Super lightweight nano-engineered polymer plating incorporated into the Batsuit creates a more resilient out shell. Adds another 1/4 to Batman's health.
- Armor Upgrade v3
Ultra strong micro plating developed by WayneTech, layered between the regular armor and the undersuit. Adds another 1/4 to Batman's health.
- Armor Upgrade v4
Batsuit soaked in top secret prototype formula, developed by Lucius Fox at WayneTech. Durability is massively increased without additional weight while retaining full movement and flexibility. Adds another 1/4 to Batman's health bar, maxing out his health.
Gadget Upgrades
- Batarang Power
Upgrades the standard Batarang power, increasing the time an assailant stays down when hit.
- Twin Batarang
Allows two targets to be taken out simultaneously. Once thrown, requires a short period of time before it can be used again. Also upgrade Combo Batarang.
- Triple Batarang
Allows three targets to be taken out simultaneously . Once thrown, requires a short period of time before it can be used again. Also, upgrades Combo Batarang.
- Remote Control Batarang
Special Batarang that can be directly controlled by Batman after being released. Once throw, requires a moderate recharge period before it can be used again.
- Sonic Batarang
Tuned to Resonate at the exact same frequency of the nearest Arkham suicide collar, attracting that henchman. Useful for luring a target into a trap or away from an area of importance. Once thrown, requires a long recharge period before it can be used again.
- Sonic Shock Batarang
Upgrade to the Sonic Batarang. Allows this to be detonated once thrown to overload the suicide collar of a nearby henchman, incapacitating him. However, the residual inference will stop any further Sonic Batarangs from being effective in this location.
- Multiple Frequency Detonator
Allows selective detonation of Explosive Gel. Useful for advanced Takedown tactics.
- Auto Proximity Detonation
Upgrades the Explosive Gel to automatically detonate if nearby threat detected. Temporarily incapacitates targets.
- Crytographic Range Amplifier
Increases effective range of the Cryptographic Sequencer, allowing Batman to override out of reach Control Points and open up access to areas that would otherwise be inaccessible.
- Crytographic Power Amplifier
Increases the power of the Cryptographic Sequencer, allowing easier deciphering of security systems.
Design and Development
Batman: Arkham Asylum takes its design and inspiration from over seventy years of comic book lore published by DC Comics and doesn't focus on any particular comic book story arc or other adaptation of the character. It is an original project with the story being written by Paul Dini who is best known as a writer, producer and editor on the highly praised cartoon "Batman: The Animated Series". Kevin Conroy (Batman / Bruce Wayne) , Mark Hamill (the Joker) and Arleen Sorkin (Harley Quinn) will all be reprising their respective voice roles from "Batman: The Animated Series" in the game as well. WildStorm Productions, a comic publisher founded by acclaimed comic artist Jim Lee, are said to be designing the appearance of various characters in the game as well.The PC version of the game will feature PhysX technology, (the reason it has been delayed until September on that platform) which will allow for a more immersive experience with more interactive environments. PhysX technology allows for better in-game physics and interaction with environments. Examples of this being litter or paper on the floor moving around and being flung into the air during combat. Fog or mist swirling around Batman and other characters as they move through it. All of which is designed to deliver a better experience for players who purchase the PC edition of the game. According to the back of the boxes, PhysX is also incorporated to some degree into the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 versions.
Batman: Arkham Asylum runs on Epic Game's Unreal Engine 3.
Extras
Batman: Arkham Asylum Collector's Edition
Batman Arkham Asylum Collector's Edition
- 14" Batarang
- DC Encyclopedia
- DLC Pack 1 that includes the exclusive "Crime Alley" Map
- Bonus DVD with Behind the Scenes feature, & Soundtrack
- A Wayne Tech collector's box
- Embossed Leather Dust Jacket
- Arkham Doctor's Journal that includes 48 pages of notes on Arkham inmates
Exclusive DLC
- The PlayStation 3 version of the game is able to access free downloadable Joker Challenge Levels.
- Users of PlayStation Home will gain access to a Batcave Outpost Personal Space.
- Walmart offers exclusive access to Batsuit Armor for the challenge maps.
- Both GameStop (USA) and GAME (UK) have a pre-order bonus for all versions of the game (PC, PS3, & Xbox 360) which adds a 'Scarecrow Super Villain Map' and allows players to square off against various villains before confronting the iconic Scarecrow himself. It should be noted that players will only be able to play as Batman in this challenge map.
System Requirements (PC)
Minimum- CPU: Intel 3 GHz (Single Core) / AMD equivalent
- Memory: Windows XP = 1 GB, Windows Vista = 2 GB
- GPU: Shader Model 3 GeForce 6600 / Radeon X1300 or higher
Recommended
- CPU: Pentium 3GHz / AMD Athlon 64 X2 3800 (Dual-Core)
- Memory: Windows XP = 2 GB, Windows Vista = 3 GB
- GPU: GeForce 7900 GT or higher
Note: The game will be enhanced for computers with multi-core processors. It will also feature Achievements, thanks to the Games For Windows – Live integration.
Reception
Critical Reception
Both GameRankings & Metacritic have the game ranked with a 92% approval rating based on the reviews of critics across the internet. The average review score of the game is 91.67 out of 100 which secured Arkham Asylum the Guinness World Record for 'Most Critically Acclaimed Superhero Game Ever', a title previously held by Marvel vs Capcom 2 with a score of 90.00 out of 100.Justin Calvert writing for Gamespot gave the game a 9.0 out of 10 and reported that:
The heading for IGN's review of Arkham Asylum noted 'Behold the greatest comic book game of all time.' and in his 9.3 out of 10 write up, Greg Miller noted:"Batman: Arkham Asylum does an outstanding job of letting you be Batman."
Curiously, in the 'Another Take' section of IGN's Arkham Asylum a review (a feature often included to present a counterpoint to the review in order to look at the game from differing perspectives on the games quality) Hilary Goldstein was similarly enthusiastic about The Dark Knight's latest outing explaining:"This is an adult Dark Knight story that is well-told, packs some truly fun gameplay elements, has topnotch voice talent, and feel like it's part of Batman canon."
"My gripes are minor [...] [b]ut otherwise, this is one of the best games I've played this year."
Sales
Expectations were evidently high during the lead up to Arkham Asylum and as the review scores came pouring in, so did the demo downloads, which the Arkham Asylum official website cited as reaching over 2 million.Upon the games release, it became an instant hit topping the charts in the UK, France, Germany, Sweden and Denmark. Initial sales show that the game has been bought by more than 2 million console owners within the first 3 weeks of release. The Collector's Edition was unavailable at the time of release due to the limited amount produced being sold during the pre-order period.
Awards
- 'Most Critically Acclaimed Superhero Game Ever' - Guiness World Records
| Game Name | Batman: Arkham Asylum |
| Platform(s) | |
| Publisher(s) | |
| Developer(s) | |
| Genres |
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| Themes | |
| Original US Release |
Aug. 25, 2009
need a fuzzy date? |
| Original US Release |
August
2009 know the real date? |
| Aliases | B:AA |
| OFLC |
OFLC: M
|
| ESRB |
ESRB: T
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| PEGI |
PEGI: 16+
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