Batman: Arkham City

Overview -

Batman Arkham City is an open-world action video game, whose main storyline revolves around Batman’s imprisonment in Arkham City, incorporating stealth and predator tactics.

Gameplay -

The game features the same combat system and predator modes as the first game (Arkham Asylum). Batman also has all of the gadgets previously obtained in the first game at the start of Arkham City (except line launcher and Ultra Batclaw), with most of them having improved or new capabilities.

The improved free flow combat of the game is snappy with Batman snapping from enemy to enemy on pressing the strike button, also allowing for multiple counters. The camera pulls back and out during combat allowing players to see all the enemies attacking. The predator sequences are as fun as they were in the first game with the AI reactions and capabilities improved over the first one.

The improved combat system includes changes and upgrades to the counter mechanic, batclaw and batarang attacks and allows the use of multiple gadgets such as exploding gel, freeze blast and more in the free flowing combat.

The AI reacts to every move made by Batman and their reactions often lead to exciting gameplay segments. Guards patrolling areas by scanning the gargoyles wanting to smoke Batman out or guards firing in random directions & walking closely with other guards out of fear all provide opportunities for using different tactics and encounters, and not to mention it also looks very lifelike and believable.

Players play as Batman, grappling and gliding across Arkham City to complete the main mission objectives, side quests and even just free roam. Moving across the open world design of the game is so much easier thanks to the upgrade to Batman’s gliding ability, allowing players to dive downward and pull themselves back up, increasing momentum and making it easier to move through the air.

Catwoman is also a playable character for a good portion of the game and players can switch between her and Batman upon completing the main story. Catwoman has her own gadgets she can use in combat to her advantage and has her own version of detective mode called “Thief Vision” to reveal items for stealing and more. 

The levels are designed to support the abilities and playstyle of both playable characters. The levels have varied elevation, wide or open spaces for hand-to-hand combat sequences to support the free flowing combat system and good placement of snipers and gunmen that force players to take them out in anyway they see fit, which play a major role in providing the intended experience to players. 

The game also features various side activities/quests upon completing the main story, that also include 436 Riddler challenges to keep the players engaged for long.

Conclusion -

Batman Arkham City earned the title “GAME OF THE YEAR” being the best designed game of the series from story, to AI, to the open world and provides players with a great fun experience that makes you feel like Batman! 

If only we got a Superman game of this caliber...