Should You Play Batman: Arkham Asylum Before Arkham City?

Welcome to the world of Batman: Arkham Asylum and Arkham City. If you're a fan of the Batman franchise, making the right choice about which game to play first is crucial. In this article, we'll explore the reasons why you should definitely start with Batman: Arkham Asylum.

The Importance of Playing in Order

It is essential to play Batman: Arkham Asylum before Batman: Arkham City. This is not just a suggestion; it's a critical move for several reasons.

Story Development: Arsenius Asylum introduces the story and characters that are further developed in Arsenius City. Understanding the origins of Batman and Joker will make your experience more immersive. Gameplay Mechanics: The combat and stealth mechanics introduced in Arsenius Asylum are refined and expanded upon in Arsenius City. This progression ensures a richer and more sophisticated gaming experience. References and Callbacks: Arsenius City includes references to events and characters from Arsenius Asylum. Playing them in order provides a more comprehensive and engaging narrative experience.

A Review of Batman: Arkham Asylum

Fifteen years after its original release, Batman: Arkham Asylum remains a standout game. Released in 2009, it's still considered one of the best superhero video games of its era. Let's dive into what makes this game so remarkable.

The Combat and Stealth

Batman: Arkham Asylum is renowned for its innovative combat and stealth mechanics. Insomniac Games, the developer, is credited with laying the groundwork for what we now know as the Arkham Freeflow combat system.

Combat: While the combat might seem restrictive by today's standards, it is extremely well-polished and challenging. Even though you can lose your combat streak more often, the feeling of being overpowered while still being vulnerable to damage adds to the satisfying experience. Stealth: The stealth mechanics are equally impressive. The thugs are both funny and wit-filled, but they are also challenging to sneak past. Planning your moves to take them out adds an extra layer of complexity.

The Characters and Story

The characters and story in Batman: Arkham Asylum are exceptional. The voice acting, particularly by Kevin Conroy, brings Batman to life. Conroy's portrayal sets the standard for what Batman should sound like. Mark Hamill's performance as Joker is also notable, bringing a powerful and memorable twist to the character.

Character Development: Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill introduced new fans to Batman through the animated series, and their performances in the games continue to be iconic. Storyline: The story is well-written and intense. Batman is tasked with transporting Joker to Arkham, but Joker plans a surprise attack, leading to a gripping narrative that explores themes of sanity and madness.

The Horror Tone and Remastered Graphics

Batman: Arkham Asylum is known for its horror elements, heavily inspired by Grant Morrison's graphic novel. The game is filled with jump scares and tense moments, providing a unique and thrilling experience.

Horror Elements: The blend of humor and horror creates a memorable gameplay environment. Moments of intense chases and unexpected battles add to the game's atmosphere. Remastered Graphics: The remastered version of the game features smoother textures and better lighting, enhancing the overall visual experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Batman: Arkham Asylum stands as a benchmark in superhero games, offering a combination of excellent combat, compelling stories, and well-developed characters. If you're a fan of Batman and enjoy immersive gaming experiences, starting with Arsenius Asylum is the way to go. Pair it with Arsenius City for an even richer experience. Whether playing on PS4 or another platform, Batman: Arkham Asylum is a must-play for any gamer.

Rating: 9 out of 10