Batman-Online.com

Well, Arkham Asylum 2 has been announced.

Here is the official site in a bare bones state:
http://www.arkhamhasmoved.com/

A teaser trailer has also been released, which you can view here:
http://www.gametrailers.com/video/batman-arkham-spike-tv/59828

Gotham is out of control with inmates. In quick shots, a sign for The Penguin's Iceberg Lounge is shown. There is a reference to Black Mask - a sign that says "Sionis". On the website, there is a picture of Two Face as Uncle Sam. So expect to see these guys in the game.

Interestingly, The Joker looks sick and older - coughing and so on. His hair is receding. He's also hooked up to a medical machine. I'm putting this down to the after effects of his Titan dose. And he looks a lot more like Ledger's Joker, too. And Harley is there, still wearing the same uniform from the first game.

I predict we are going to see some form of turf war, ala No Mans Land.

[thread title changed - ral]

Looks like I have another "must have" for my video game library.

Anticipation!

Watched the teaser for the 10th time. Salivating. In Rocksteady we trust.  8)

I've spotted a black cat lurking on a fire escape. A possibility of Catwoman? Hope so.

I think The Riddler will be back in this game. His challenges at least. Remember, before he is arrested, The Riddler asks Batman if he is ready for another contest, this time across Gotham City. They would be still sitting there waiting for Batman.

Here's another look at the trailer, in which a fan points out all the things to speculate about: http://www.gametrailers.com/video/gt-pop-block-batman-arkham/60076

this will be epic

Arkham Asylum 2 "won't let anyone down."

"We're all really excited that people want to see what we're up to next and we really want to surprise people again.

"I'm really excited by our next project and I promise we won't let anyone down."

http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=237933

Robin to appear?

If so, I hope he is handled carefully.

http://www.product-reviews.net/2010/03/09/batman-arkham-asylum-2-robin-will-be-in-the-game-ps3-and-xbox-360/

Robin...? Do my eyes fool me, or I read corectly? Robin...?

I believe the word I'm looking for is... @#$%$^#@$% :)

At the moment, Two Face, Mr Freeze and Talia Al Ghul are confirmed.

There are a "lot of villains".

Mr Freeze will be "somewhat sympathetic".

The game will be darker than the first.

Conroy compared it to "Batman Beyond - Return of The Joker".

Of note, that story featured The Joker torturing Robin, who is said to feature in the game as well. Robin featuring in that capacity, where Batman has to rescue him, would be fine.

http://splashpage.mtv.com/2010/04/20/batman-arkham-asylum-2-game-characters-two-face-mister-freeze-talia-al-ghul/

I'm sure if the creators read anything from message boards (and I'm sure they do, they got the first game nearly perfectly), they'll know to use Robin seriously. The first game was awesome and particularily due to the dark tone, a silly Burt Ward/Chris O'Donnell robin would have ruined it. Robin can definitely be done dark as well, we just haven't seen it on screen aside from some brief scenes in batman forever. He's handled well in the animated show isn't he? Seems they used that as quite a bit of inspiration.


I'm just under halfway through the first game (beat Bane, played some arkham levels) and thoroughly enjoying it.

Potential titles have been revealed in WB domain registrations. It also seems like we're going to get some viral sites at some stage about Quincy Sharp running for Mayor, and Bruce Wayne, who apparently is missing.

http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/possible-batman-arkham-asylum-sequel-names-dropped-in-domain-reg/#continued

Mmm, nice stuff, the names are a little weak tho, but anyway, it seems as tho this will be as awesome as the first, but I just hope we get something new

Arkham City gets my vote, because from what we've heard, that's exactly what the situation is. It's simple and straight to the point. And Arkham Asylum/Arkham City has nice flow on consistency.

I can't wait for this game...I have played AA to death - i need new challenges!

The Arkham Asylum art director says detective mode may be overhauled in the sequel.

http://games.on.net/article/9617/Arkham_Asylum_2_to_feature_a_less_robust_detective_mode

Quote from: The Dark Knight on Thu, 15 Jul  2010, 02:06
The Arkham Asylum art director says detective mode may be overhauled in the sequel.

http://games.on.net/article/9617/Arkham_Asylum_2_to_feature_a_less_robust_detective_mode

Nah, now thats a kick in the crotch, even without it I've only now gotten all the Riddles, so yea, thats sucks a bit, but I just want something new, anything, like a new trailer, pics, something

I understand where the art director is coming from. I like the detective mode and I?m using it most of the time. It tells you where the enemies are, where to place explosive gel and rip down ceilings. But at the same time, I hate using it. This blue hue is covering the beautiful visuals, and it?s all I?m ever looking at. But as soon as I revert to normal vision mode, I?m habitually switching it back. The game makes it pretty much essential to use the detective mode, especially the first play through ? because you want to see everything that?s hidden. You want the complete experience. For the sequel, there has to some way to balance the two.

The October issue of UK's Xbox magazine will reveal details and screenshots. 

http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=258313

It?s been confirmed that the sequel is called Batman: Arkham City and is scheduled for release in Autumn 2011.

Check out this report on IGN - they have some pictures of Game Informer covers featuring Batman and Catwoman as they appear in the game.

http://uk.xbox360.ign.com/articles/111/1110583p1.html (http://uk.xbox360.ign.com/articles/111/1110583p1.html)

Arkham City was the best possible title. I'm glad they went with it.

Cool covers as well.

Arkham City is indeed a cool sounding title, and the artwork looks fantastic. When you look at the line-up of villains, it feels like AA was the appetizer, and AC is the main dish. Can't wait to see their designs for Two-Face, Freeze etc.

QuoteActor Mark Hamill confirmed to us  in an interview last May he'll be reprising his role as the voice of Joker for the game for the last time ever. "This will be my last, there's no question about that," he said. "But it's the last hurrah."

Quote from: SilentEnigma on Fri,  6 Aug  2010, 11:05
Can't wait to see their designs for Two-Face, Freeze etc.

I think he will pretty much resemble the artwork from his dossier in the first game. That goes for Catwoman and the others.

This? Too true, but there's a certain gap between the comic-styled artwork of the villain profiles and the 3D renders.

Quote from: SilentEnigma on Sat,  7 Aug  2010, 10:22
there's a certain gap between the comic-styled artwork of the villain profiles and the 3D renders.

Yeah, but I expect him to more or less resemble it. To have that colour suit and so on.

Quote from: SilentEnigma on Fri,  6 Aug  2010, 11:05
Arkham City is indeed a cool sounding title, and the artwork looks fantastic. When you look at the line-up of villains, it feels like AA was the appetizer, and AC is the main dish. Can't wait to see their designs for Two-Face, Freeze etc.

QuoteActor Mark Hamill confirmed to us  in an interview last May he'll be reprising his role as the voice of Joker for the game for the last time ever. "This will be my last, there's no question about that," he said. "But it's the last hurrah."

Last time in anything? Then is this article wrong?

http://www.destructoid.com/sdcc-mark-hamill-to-voice-joker-in-dc-universe-online-179593.phtml

He maybe has done the voice work for DCU online already

Don't know when he did the voice work, but DCU Online comes out this November.  Arkham City won't be out until Fall 2011.

Leaked information.

Gameinformer story info:
- Quincy Sharp is now running for mayor.
- Arkham Asylum and Black Gate Prison are unfit to hold inmates.
- Quincy Sharp buys off part of the slums and walls it off, creating Arkham City.
- Hugo Strange is in charge of Arkham City.
- Two-Face plans to execute Catwoman to gain respect of inmates.
- The overdose of venom may not be what's wrong with the Joker.

Gameinformer Gameplay info:
- You are now able to counter two attacks at once.
- More puzzles.
- All gadgets included in the first game are available from the start.
- Side missions now feature in the game.
- Gangs roam Arkham City, these are recorded in Batman's criminal database.
- You find people who work for Ridler to find Ridler challenges.
- Batman has his smoke bomb.

But wait, there's MORE:

- Sharp took credit for getting the Joker situation under control
- Sharp used that incident to help win the election
- He then declares Blackgate and Arkham unfit
- Sharp buys off a portion of the slums of Gotham
- He walls off the area, calls it Arkham City
- Sharp contracts a mercenary group named Tyger into defending the walls
- Prisoners given one rule: ?Don?t try to escape?
- Penalty is death
- Prisoners free to do anything besides that within
- People who look into Hugo Strange disappear
- A year has taken place
- Two-Face is admitted into Arkham City
- Two-Face realizes he needs to make a move to assert himself in the prison so that he won?t be eaten alive
- He captures Catwoman, thinking that a public execution would help out his situation
- Devs. want a highly detailed city
- Can use gadgets while fighting
- Example of this: Putting explosive gel on the back of an enemy
- A lot of the super villains have formed gangs, have control of different areas in the city
- Devs hoping to use more of the ?forensics? angle from the first title, incorporate puzzles in them that will get more complex as you progress
- Most of the key gadgets unlocked late in the original are immediately available, but it seems it hasn?t been confirmed that all of them will
- Explosive gel, line launcher confirmed to be available by default
- Interrogations instead of Riddler maps now
- Press a button and Batman will taunt enemies
- Optional sidestories for some characters, including Zsasz
- New costume for Harley
- Broadcast analyzer: Mainly used so that Batman can listen to a message from the Joker
- There are several broadcasts Bats can listen to, including the GCPD dispatch and Gotham FM
- Orcacle is missing
- Because of this, Alfred is the one in Bruce?s ear
- Rocksteady not talking about multiplayer plans yet

Screenshots from the game:

http://www.computerandvideogames.com/viewer.php?mode=article&id=235711

We see in game Two-Face and Catwoman. Good to see Batman wearing the same suit from the first in screenshot 4, too. The City looks really gritty and detailed as well.

And it looks like they may have balanced detective mode. The environment is still visible, not totally covered in blue. Just the items of interest are highlighted. Haven't played the first for a while, but I don't think they had that.

f***! I can't wait, however Face looks very TDK, in fact, maybe a little too TDK for my liking, but meh, looking insane none-the less

CANT WAIT for this.

It's funny, I think Two Face looks more like Jones' Harv.

I hope Catwoman doesn't die. But, I'm getting a scared feeling.

This is the way Jones really SHOULD have been in BF.

Quote from: Gotham Knight on Wed, 11 Aug  2010, 17:03
I hope Catwoman doesn't die. But, I'm getting a scared feeling.

I don't think they will. Batman will show up I'm sure. Similiar to how Batman takes down Zsasz when he takes people in the first game.

The story makes it sound a bit like a mix of Escape from New York and No Man's Land. Two-Face looks like inspired from TDK, but even more horrific. I like how Rocksteady went with the darkest possible take on Batman and his world.

I hope that if Robin is in it, he and Batman are separated and playing in solo missions. Part of the appeal to AA was that it's an extremely scary concept; Batman trapped in the asylum aloe with lunatics running the show. It would have defintely lost its thrilling element if Robin was by his side. Now if Robin was in one part of the asylum and Batman in another part, it would have worked but definitely no tag teams until late in the game.

Good video here with the composer talking about the Arkham Asylum/Arkham City scores.

http://gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2010/08/23/the-music-of-batman-arkham-city.aspx

That was great thanks!

20 new screenshots:

http://www.gamefocus.ca/?nav=gallerie&fid=9913

Sweet!

nice  :)

Very nice and I'm thankful that Gotham looks like...well....Gotham!
;D

Looks sharp

Judging by these new screenshots alone, I believe it is safe to say that at the very least, Arkham City will be as good as the first. It looks amazing.

Scarecrow to return?

http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=267832

Looks like it is still a calendar year away from being released

Apparently they will hint at a third game. Much like Arkham Asylum's Arkham City blueprint easter egg.

A new concept photo has been released for Batman: Arkham City showing Harley Quinn in her new outfit.

(https://www.batman-online.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.comicbookmovie.com%2Fimages%2Fusers%2Fgallerypictures%2F17692L.png&hash=e4c641fda8e08b60dc688d658e948d6293b7c4c0)

heeeeeeeeelllllllllllllllllllo nurse

Reminds me of Harley from the Bermejo/Azzarello "Joker"

Quote from: SilentEnigma on Sun, 21 Nov  2010, 22:17
Reminds me of Harley from the Bermejo/Azzarello "Joker"

8)

New trailer:

http://www.gametrailers.com/video/vga-10-batman-arkham/708342

Jaw dropping. Now that is Batman.

That is gonna get watched over and over and over.....

The news is that Dr Hugo Strange is the main villain in Arkham Asylum 2.  Maybe people were getting confused with the TDKR and the game when they started suggesting that Tom Hardy would play this role; alternatively, if the TDKR does feature Hugo Strange, this game will probably give him the exposure he needs before the film is released.

This little snippet is more visually interesting to me than anything Nolan has accomplished with the character. And it gets so close to capturing the true essence of Batman. I'd be down with a full CGI film in this vein. Full creative freedom with lifelike visuals.

That was explosive...

in your pants

I CANT WAIT!!

Quote from: Paul (ral) on Mon, 13 Dec  2010, 02:21
That is gonna get watched over and over and over.....

Too True

This game looks f***ing insane, can't wait for it

Another concept art:

http://www.comicbookmovie.com/fansites/Wolvie09/news/?a=27606

At the moment, this is the only project I'm interested in.

Skyscrapers with angled roofs and chimneys?  Looks kinda Furstish.  8)

Nice B89 homage in the game. The Monarch Theatre.

http://img257.imageshack.us/i/c20b0e9c41c7f1eb65144fa.jpg/

Quote from: The Dark Knight on Sun, 23 Jan  2011, 10:38
Nice B89 homage in the game. The Monarch Theatre.

http://img257.imageshack.us/i/c20b0e9c41c7f1eb65144fa.jpg/

Nice!

Quote from: SilentEnigma on Mon, 24 Jan  2011, 12:39

Quote from: The Dark Knight on Sun, 23 Jan  2011, 10:38
Nice B89 homage in the game. The Monarch Theatre.

http://img257.imageshack.us/i/c20b0e9c41c7f1eb65144fa.jpg/

Nice!

Yep. I said it was. Further evidence that I do tell the truth.

Quote from: The Dark Knight on Sun, 23 Jan  2011, 10:38
Nice B89 homage in the game. The Monarch Theatre.

http://img257.imageshack.us/i/c20b0e9c41c7f1eb65144fa.jpg/

alright!!!!

Quote from: The Dark Knight on Sun, 23 Jan  2011, 10:38
Nice B89 homage in the game. The Monarch Theatre.

http://img257.imageshack.us/i/c20b0e9c41c7f1eb65144fa.jpg/

I'll bet Paul Dini had something to do with that. He always kept the Burton era close to his heart.

forgive me if this has been mentioned before...

in addition to the Monarch Theatre, there is another Batman movie reference "floating" around... concerning a suspicious cat balloon lurking about the skyline that bares a striking resemblance to a very special kitty. No not our beloved Ms. Kyle.

My thoughts:

What's interesting is that, considering that everybody already knows Catwoman is in it, you'd think they'd be less...ostentatious, especially when you see that the face has been purposefully obscured as though something were being hidden. Again, we know Catwoman's in it. What are they hiding? Or is it being read too much into. See bellow:

(https://www.batman-online.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg811.imageshack.us%2Fimg811%2F2476%2Ff134145d313343d5c8fe7d7.jpg&hash=21fe3eedd271365c7b4e12165636b6409a81f41d)

Penguin's been rumored (through shots of the Iceberg Lounge.) Could he have a silent business partner who runs a department store?

Good catch, Gotham Knight. I can see what you mean.

Not sure about it being integral to the plot, though. Might just be a sight homage.

Hey GK that photo is probably a cooler homage than the Monarch one!

New screens/artwork:

http://www.ripten.com/2011/02/01/new-batman-arkham-city-screensartwork-displays-a-patriotic-two-face-sexy-harley-quinn/

^ I like the sound of that. I have a keen interest in the universe of this series, and the artwork is always top notch.

Interview with new screenshots (they look amazing!)

Oh, and no multiplayer. Fine by me, because they put more effort into the solo.

http://au.ps3.ign.com/articles/114/1149377p1.html

No multiplayer? This is for the better.

The city looks gorgeous. The cityscape (seen from afar) in the first game looked more in line with the "realistic" Gotham of the new movies, I love that in AC it looks to have several buildings with a more stylized look.

(https://www.batman-online.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fps3media.ign.com%2Fps3%2Fimage%2Farticle%2F114%2F1149377%2Fbatman-arkham-city-20110213101443682-000.jpg&hash=70b6a8dcdd3b04ec533df17021b7a6ed94081fe2)

IGN review the first trailer

http://www.ign.com/videos/2010/12/14/batman-arkham-city-hugo-strange-trailer-rewind-theater?objectid=55050

Plus a limited review of the game

http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/115/1152006p1.html

Batman: Arkham City will be released on the following dates: October 18th in US, October 19th in AUS and October 21st in Europe

Good to finally have a date. The wait will be long but worth it.

I loved this comment by Rocksteady. Their reply to the possibility of a Dark Knight Rises tie-in:

"What we find with the comic book license is that we get creative freedom to push the characters in pretty much any direction we like; we're not bound to a single narrative. I'm not saying we'll never make a game based on a movie, but as of right now and from a creative perspective, it's not something we want to be doing."

Nice mock to restricting realism blended in there while remaining on topic.

http://www.ign.com/videos/2011/03/15/batman-arkham-city-this-aint-no-place-for-a-hero-trailer

my....god

Poor Jokey. He's at rock bottom. Resigned to an imminent death. Vulnerable to the point others could seemingly easily kill him at any point.  But I fully expect him to rise from this. Maybe not health wise, but in terms of mental spirit. Batman's involvement will cheer him up, knowing he has a chance of a final bow his way. 

Oh!  As anyone seen these yet, featuring our beloved question king in the flesh?

http://www.g4tv.com/thefeed/blog/post/711073/riddlers-role-in-batman-arkham-city-revealed-first-screens-and-details/

(https://www.batman-online.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fcache.g4tv.com%2FImageDb3%2F264307_S%2FRiddlers-Role-In-Batman-Arkham-City-Revealed-First-Screens-and-Details.jpg&hash=0caf8caaad92a44d62de7ee462981cd60fcedee0)

(https://www.batman-online.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fcache.gawkerassets.com%2Fassets%2Fimages%2F9%2F2011%2F03%2F053_rescue.jpg&hash=b17e451a30fd322e0550417798938494dd96be6c)

I kinda see some of John Glover's face in there. Nice little homage.

The use of a song in the trailer (The Heavy - "Short change hero") was a nice touch - its mood reminds me of some songs heard in the Silent Hill games. The more I see of the sequel, the more it feels like the Arkham games are an alternative Batman movie franchise. Not a big fan of the comic's visual style, though.

As you would know, The Penguin has been announced.

This is their angle:

QuoteThe way that Penguin has always been portrayed is as quite an aristocratic, well-spoken gentleman who's got these twisted delusions of grandeur...So we've made him a really horrible, nasty piece of work – but still with the delusion of grandeur. He dresses well, but in a poor taste, and we've made him this brutish, brutal guy but also key into collection fascination that hes had through out the years. Penguin's faction is much more about the collection that he has within his museum of all sorts of things but one of those things he collects is heavily artillery. So when you come up against his thugs in the street they are all going to have seriously heavy weapons and that develops throughout the game as well.

Sound familiar?

Quote from: The Dark Knight on Tue, 31 May  2011, 01:45
As you would know, The Penguin has been announced.

This is their angle:

QuoteThe way that Penguin has always been portrayed is as quite an aristocratic, well-spoken gentleman who's got these twisted delusions of grandeur...So we've made him a really horrible, nasty piece of work – but still with the delusion of grandeur. He dresses well, but in a poor taste, and we've made him this brutish, brutal guy but also key into collection fascination that hes had through out the years. Penguin's faction is much more about the collection that he has within his museum of all sorts of things but one of those things he collects is heavily artillery. So when you come up against his thugs in the street they are all going to have seriously heavy weapons and that develops throughout the game as well.

Sound familiar?

Excellent stuff TDK.  Hopefully, all the Batman Returns haters will have seen that quote, especially the ones who keep criticising Batman Return's take on The Penguin.

Catwoman is a playable character in the game! Not a downloadable content exclusive, but in the game for everyone.

Look at this yummy trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_bYGcCzbkg&feature=player_embedded#at=70

Kotaku has a few more details on Catwoman

- Along with her whip and the bola, Catwoman uses a Caltrop in combat
- She can also crawl along ceilings
- Climbs building, etc with her claws
- While some of her missions are optional, she will have to be used on occasion seeing how her story is intertwined with Batman's
- The vault she infiltrates contains the most valuable items taken away from the inmates of Arkham City (it's safe to assume to teddy bear is Bane's)

Here's some information from the gameplay demo Gamespot got to try out:

- Batman goes to rooftop with many cats, where a context sensitive command "take a break Appears" this switches characters to Catwoman
- She controls differently then batman
- She has her own story, (Roughly 10% of the game)
- Her own combat moves (uses her whip, bolo, and unrevealed third item)
- Instead of gliding, she uses her whip + jumping and climbing through the environment
- Her own version of detective mode, thief mode (highlights objects of value)
- Mission shown had her stealing from a Vault
- Has to fight guards guarding a manhole, climbs vines, pickpockets (stealth based section)
- Allied with Poison Ivy

Wa CHA!!!


Crack that WHIP!

Quote from: Gotham Knight on Thu,  2 Jun  2011, 17:29
Wa CHA!!!


Crack that WHIP!

My sentiments entirely. I'm sure she's a nice person, but I'd love to see the back of her.

Whistling to macho thugs, handing a beatdown and kissing before the coup de grace. Very Catwoman.

I am very hungry to see Hathaway in costume.

Good stuff

Robin revealed.

http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/117/1177294p1.html (http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/117/1177294p1.html)

I never thought they could make me like Robin. Cool design, I like the haircut they gave him, reminds me a bit of Chris O Donnel in Forever. I assume his suit will have a darker colour palette compared to the comics.

Official cover art:

http://i.imgur.com/PMb5X.jpg

Looks good. Especially with the black PS3 banner.

Agreed. Speaking of boxes, here are some nice fanmade ones.

The fan work can be very good most of the time. But I actually prefer the one they went with. I think it was the best image in that style - the current wallpaper to this very forum. Note: they changed the ears. Crouching on a gargoyle is a hard image to beat when it comes to Batman. And I'm a noir fan. So I find the black and white look classy and stylised. The blood on the hands stands out better, too. It's obviously meant to connect with the red title card. Signifying Arkham City is a place of violence. I do hope they have that image of Batman and Catwoman together on the back. I'm sure they will. Since she is a playable character in story mode.

Agreed, the official image is the best and most iconic. I think if you bet money that they'll use the Batman/Catwoman image on the back, your pockets will be full. I remember it was one of the first pictures released, and still one of the best.

Direct feed footage:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBXDHznD83g&feature=player_embedded

Arleen Sorkin e-mailed me earlier this week regarding the casting of Tara Strong as Harley.  Check out what she had to say here:
http://www.batman-online.com/index.php?news;id=43

It would be great if everyone could leave a message for Arleen in the comments section of the news story

http://www.batman-online.com/index.php?news%3Bid=43

IGN posted some new concept art and details concerning Robin.

(https://www.batman-online.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fps3media.ign.com%2Fps3%2Fimage%2Farticle%2F118%2F1180689%2Fbatman-arkham-city-20110705030040035.jpg&hash=683a1454000eacc80ebc70eee228480109a485a4)

Concept artist Kan Mutfic commented:

Quote"We wanted to create a Robin that players would identify as a contemporary character and move away from the traditional "Boy Wonder" image that most people know. Our vision of Robin is the one of a troubled young individual that is calm and introverted at times but very dangerous and aggressive if provoked. The shaved head is inspired by cage fighters, because we thought that Robin might be doing that in his spare time to keep him on his toes. Still, we kept all the classic trademarks of Robin's appearance, such as the red and yellow colors of his outfit, the cape and the mask.

We really hope that people will discover our Robin as one of their new favorite characters in the Batman universe. He is back and he means business." KAN MUTFIC, JULY 2011

http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/118/1180689p1.html

Looks like Assassins Creed or something...I like it!

Riddler trailer

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TlWfnehkYo

I think their Robin works. They could not have the Burt Ward version, obviously. A character in a film or book has to resemble their environment. And this Robin blends into the rough and tough Arkham City environment. He looks like he could hold his own against Titan crazies. Be it Dick, Jason or Tim - Rocksteady's Robin was going to have this appearance and personality because of that. Robin is Robin visually, and they've kind of rolled it all into one. The gritty cage fighting angle also does allow carefree bravery that the character exudes. Possibly with some trademark quips thrown in.

Yeah, agreed. Maybe the Assassin's Creed similarity is too great with the cowl and the short cape. I know Assassin's Creed hasn't invented or trademarked cowls, lol, but I think Robin might work better without it, his character design is "gritty" enough. Or else, half of the gaming population will call him "Ezio" :)

Entertainment Weekly revealed Talia al Ghul is in the game, voiced by actress Stana Katic.

(https://www.batman-online.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg2.timeinc.net%2Few%2Fi%2F2011%2F07%2F21%2Fbatman_510.jpg&hash=6b2fc0bc4e18ab63457c6320046a96c2070c2be5)
http://popwatch.ew.com/2011/07/21/batman-arkham-city-stana-katic-castle/

Meanwhile Gamespot uploaded a new trailer featuring the Penguin and Solomon Grundy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1g39nrY7Dks

Mr Freeze trailer

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXqj0rpyD2c

There's no need for re-booting this franchise after Nolan's done :)
..
Joking of course, but I can't see how can anyone come up with a better design for a mobster Penguin, or Freeze...

What bugs me about Freeze is that Maurice LaMarche is just trying to match Michael Ansara. Though, seeing as his talents have always favored impressions, I can't say I'm surprised and not just a little impressed.

I'm not mad about the Penguin having a broken bottle permanently lodged in his face, but I think Mr. Freeze looks and sounds great. All in all, the game's shaping up really nicely.

I like this Freeze. Emotionless and high tech. A man walking around in a fridge, shooting ice. Take that Nolan!

Characterisation and actually looking like the character can be done. Shock horror.

I firmly believe AC will be one of the Batman benchmarks.

For the UK'ers here, you can get Robin by pre-ordering from Game, and you can get the Joker's Carnival challenge maps by pre-ordering from Tesco.  Descions, descions, I honestly don't know what I want more, 4hours extra gaming, or Robin.

IGN's posted the first song from the Arkham City soundtrack.

"Deranged" by Coheed and Cambria

http://uk.ign.com/videos/2011/09/14/arkham-city-exclusive-coheed-and-cambria-track

The full track list is:
1.   Panic! At The Disco - Mercenary
2. Coheed and Cambria - Deranged
3. The Duke Spirit - Creature
4. Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - Shadow On The Run
5. Blaqk Audio - Afterdark
6. The Raveonettes - Oh, Stranger
7. ††† (Crosses) - The Years
8. The Damned Things – Trophy Widow
9. Daughtry - Drown In You
10. The Boxer Rebellion - Losing You
11. Serj Tankian - Total Paranoia

Bonus Collector's Edition track:
12. A Place to Bury Strangers - In The Shadow

so who is pre ordering?
I pre ordered the one from best buy to get the robin skin.

New joker trailer http://www.batman-online.com/?news&id=73

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZxlEPpH0Xc

Development of Arkham City has now been officially completed!

http://www.batman-online.com/?news&id=74

The new trailer is fun. Hugo may have a large presence in the game, but I do think Uncle Bingo will screw him over at the end and do things his way. I'm hoping, anyway.

Official Playstation Magazine Australia review:

QuoteBatman: Arkham City is not only the best superhero game ever made, it's one of the best games ever made full-stop. It takes the already superlative original and gloriously expands on it. It's a deeper game, more complex, more inventive, more mature. It brings the caped crusader's world to life better than any comic, movie or television show before it.

Presentation: Endlessly creative, perfectly moody, and technically flawless. This is Epic's Unreal engine pushed to its absolute limit.

Sound: Alternatively foreboding and frantic, the game's orchestral soundtrack matches the on-sccreen action perfectly. Voice acting is brilliant.

Controls: Complex and initially overwhelming but also logical and responsive. It'll take a while to get used to them, but once you do it feels perfectly natural flinging Batman around.

Replay Value: Immense. A massive main quest, dozens of side missions, Riddler challenges, secondary game modes, and DLC will keep most people occupied for months.

VERDICT: We can't imagine how a superhero game could be better than this. Absolutely sublime.

10/10

Mighty big praise there. I knew this would be one of the Batman events. GOTY beckons.

Pre-ordered the collector's edition yesterday.

Nightwing will be available as DLC

http://www.batman-online.com/?news&id=84
(https://www.batman-online.com/news/1317755383_nightwing-arkham-city.jpg)

AC main theme (heard on the main menu)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=91hcFT6KJ4c&feature=player_embedded

I really like the original AA main menu theme. It was dark, dreary and atmospheric. This one is good too. Still has the Zimmer/Elfman mix going on. It aims for a different vibe, and it's a vibe of energy and excitement. It works a treat. I'm glad they didn't just repeat what they did in AA. They gave us something else across the board.

Copyrights blocked me from watching.

Yeah, the only vid of the main title I can view in the U.S. is a mashup with the Hugo Strange trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZ0S4ficc6U

Very different feel from the Arkham Asylum soundtrack, especially in the ending.

IGN Feature - 6 Batsuits We Want in Arkham City

http://uk.movies.ign.com/articles/119/1196308p1.html

I like the artwork of the battle-damaged 89 suit.

(https://www.batman-online.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fmoviesmedia.ign.com%2Fmovies%2Fimage%2Farticle%2F119%2F1196308%2F6-movie-batsuits-we-want-in-arkham-city-20111010003934673-000.jpg&hash=2817672921ad148ff9ec18d645946fa3c02f177c)

My fingers and toes remained crossed about future DLC additions, namely Catwoman skins. BTAS, BR, Hush, etc.

Imagine getting the BR Catwoman skin. Man, that would be awesome.

QuoteImagine getting the BR Catwoman skin. Man, that would be awesome.

Looks like IGN agrees. Here's their list of supervillains they want in the game:

http://uk.movies.ign.com/articles/119/1198605p1.html

SO who's played the game? What's the verdict?

Quote from: Paul (ral) on Wed, 19 Oct  2011, 00:04
SO who's played the game? What's the verdict?

I've got to install the Catwoman DLC content before I start, but tomorrow is the day for me.

Should get mines tomorrow, can't wait

mine's due friday.

I'm glad that my patience to get Arkham Asylum has finally paid off, because walmart is releasing for a limited time only,  a free copy of Arkham Asylum Game of the Year Edition with the purchase of Arkham City.  That's right, you get Arkham Asylum for free.  I got both games yesterday with my purchase of Arkham City $59.83 only at walmart.

I picked up my copy from Game today. I've downloaded the Catwoman and Robin bonus content and clocked in about 3 or 4 hours of playtime. So far it's pretty amazing.

It's especially fun spotting all the little references to classic Batman stories (comics and movies).

Got the game, and played last night. Still got the last section to go.

I genuinely had no idea as to what was going to happen, apart from the opening salvo with Catwoman being caught by Two-Face. I think the rest of the story is alright. Though (Hugo) strangely I feel a bit underwhelmed by sections of it. Boss battles aren't really radically improved, and are still similar in execution and difficulty.

It does evoke AA in the look, but the feel seems a bit different somehow. I think AC is better technically, but I *feel* the atmosphere of AA more, I think. That's not to say AC doesn't have atmosphere, mind you. I think AC feels more episodic and more detached. But it's early days yet, that opinion may change in time as I play it more often.

I don't think some characters get enough airtime. I thought Two-Face was going to have a bigger part. Strange is hardly in the game as well. He does have voice-overs through AC speakers, but you only physically see him a few times. One thing I was surprised about is Penguin's role in the game. He's in it quite a lot.

But don't think I dislike the game. Far from it. The game is brilliant fun. And I love playing as Catwoman. I haven't sunk my teeth into the side quests, but Mad Hatter's section is flat out trippy. Quite confrontingly so. Looking forward to doing the rest. I want to comment on the Batman/Joker relationship, but I'll wait until I finish the game, to see how it all pans out.

Quote from: The Dark Knight on Sat, 22 Oct  2011, 03:58
Got the game, and played last night. Still got the last section to go.

I genuinely had no idea as to what was going to happen, apart from the opening salvo with Catwoman being caught by Two-Face. I think the rest of the story is alright. Though (Hugo) strangely I feel a bit underwhelmed by sections of it. Boss battles aren't really radically improved, and are still similar in execution and difficulty.

It does evoke AA in the look, but the feel seems a bit different somehow. I think AC is better technically, but I *feel* the atmosphere of AA more, I think. That's not to say AC doesn't have atmosphere, mind you. I think AC feels more episodic and more detached. But it's early days yet, that opinion may change in time as I play it more often.

I don't think some characters get enough airtime. I thought Two-Face was going to have a bigger part. Strange is hardly in the game as well. He does have voice-overs through AC speakers, but you only physically see him a few times. One thing I was surprised about is Penguin's role in the game. He's in it quite a lot.

But don't think I dislike the game. Far from it. The game is brilliant fun. And I love playing as Catwoman. I haven't sunk my teeth into the side quests, but Mad Hatter's section is flat out trippy. Quite confrontingly so. Looking forward to doing the rest. I want to comment on the Batman/Joker relationship, but I'll wait until I finish the game, to see how it all pans out.

Played through a bit and...

I agree entirely with everything you said, Dark Knight, verbatim.

I think AC's problem is that it knows how big it's britches are. AA was a runaway hit, AC knows it's the $h*t. An ego is healthy, I think AC's a bit too big, considering it manages to be both over and underwhelming at the same time. There are times when I feel the humdrum of center of the road repetition and other times where I am crushed under the weight of the game's scope (not a praise). As TDK said, 'technically it IS better,' but AA had better...er...chops or....aura...    Sounds funny, I know, you'd think a chunk of GOTHAM would trump an asylum, but intimacy was better in my view, because, when you think about it, free roam cityscape have been done before (spidey has one every week) albeit not as beautifully, and thus, the grandiosity, from the vast city to the over the top main menu, suck the urgency that intimacy cultivates so well. 

But let's keep it real. This game rocks the house down. We don't need no water, let the m.f.er burn.

About the very end scene:

Well, Joker died of the virus. It was a downbeat way to end the game. And yes, I felt sympathy for a mass murdering clown. It made me reflect on why I love the character as much as I do. I still think there's an escape clause in there, though. Clayface could've imitated two Jokers no problem. Hell, in the Clayface boss battle he sends many clay 'creatures' after you. Two Jokers would be nothing. But it would have to play into a death faking scenario. Or the real Joker did in fact die, and could be brought back at some stage via a Lazrus Pit. In that scenario it depends on what the GCPD did with his body. In the game Joker says the only way to fool the world's greatest detective is to be obvious. In any case, Batman thinks Joker is dead. A world without Joker can be explored in Arkham 3. What happened to the gang scene? Who took over? And if they want to bring Joker back what better way to throw that new equilibrium into chaos than a surprise return late in the plot?

I've got more to add about Joker and other things. But for now, I've got to fly.

In Wonder City the announcer quotes Sam Hamm's opening in the BATMAN script. "Hell onto the sidewalk, etc"

Someone's made a Batsuit based on the Arkham City design.  :)

(https://www.batman-online.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1120.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fl493%2Fbatpirisss%2FAAAC-7-1.jpg&hash=7f3c76708a45f601bbb15814dcb005fc15c7ac2b)

You can read all about it and see more pictures here: http://www.theeffectslab.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=17556

^ Awesome take.  Now that is Batman.

THAT is very cool. I wondered when somebody'd take that step.

Fellow PS3 users! Anyone got Nightwing yet? I'm on the PS Store and don't see him.

ALSO: Spotted another Burton ref this time in the epilogue during Catwoman's last mission. 


SPOILER: When the booby trapped apartment blows up and knocks her out, she lays unconscious with cats walking around her. Very Batman Returns.

I checked the PSN store today and only saw Catwoman.

Quote from: Gotham Knight on Tue,  1 Nov  2011, 18:26
SPOILER: When the booby trapped apartment blows up and knocks her out, she lays unconscious with cats walking around her. Very Batman Returns.

Ah yes. Good observation.

If it isn't up already, I think the Nightwing DLC will be up by Thursday.

It finally went up. Thanks guys for touching base! Good stuff, love the cell shading on the 'animated' Nightwing. Looked crisp while at the same time maintaining the 2D animation look of the Gotham Knight's Grayson. Wayne Manor challenge map is very nice. Would like a better look without goons shooting at me.

Another Burton Ref: During a 'inmate surveillance recording,' a goon says that "His life isn't worth spit here." Carl Grissom FTW

Shumac Ref: One of the Riddles Batman has to scan is at Catwoman's apartment. In bloody looking script, Two Face (or his goons under orders) spray painted the wall outside her apartment the quote, "CATWOMAN MUST DIE!" a reference to the deleted scene that was to open Batman Forever.

Quote from: Gotham Knight on Sun,  6 Nov  2011, 04:00
Another Burton Ref: During a 'inmate surveillance recording,' a goon says that "His life isn't worth spit here." Carl Grissom FTW

Shumac Ref: One of the Riddles Batman has to scan is at Catwoman's apartment. In bloody looking script, Two Face (or his goons under orders) spray painted the wall outside her apartment the quote, "CATWOMAN MUST DIE!" a reference to the deleted scene that was to open Batman Forever.

Niiice.

Some of Catwoman's fighting moves are similar to Pfeiffer's. For example, one of her counter attacks involves her grabbing her opponent's head and dragging it down to connect with her knee. She did the same thing to Batman during their second fight in Batman Returns.

Another movie reference can be seen in one of her idle stances, which shows her 'bathing' herself by licking the back of her hand and rubbing it across her cowl.

Mr. Freeze borrows some of Arnolds puns.

Quote from: Gotham Knight on Tue,  1 Nov  2011, 18:26
SPOILER: When the booby trapped apartment blows up and knocks her out, she lays unconscious with cats walking around her. Very Batman Returns.

Played through the game's story and on this point again - When Catwoman wakes up, a goon asks what they'll do. Another goon replies that they'll kill her again. Yet another BR reference, in terms of the supernatural element Burton alluded to.

The Robin DLC is now available to download. I'll get around to doing so soon. Anybody else played it?

Now that we've had a decent length of time playing AC, where do you rank it among the other Batman games?

Edit: In the last Catwoman level, Two-Face says "the first to find her will be my right hand...guy." He says this in a very similar fashion to Nicholson. Play through that part again or find it on Youtube and you'll see what I mean.

Quote from: The Dark Knight on Fri, 25 Nov  2011, 07:55

Quote from: Gotham Knight on Tue,  1 Nov  2011, 18:26
SPOILER: When the booby trapped apartment blows up and knocks her out, she lays unconscious with cats walking around her. Very Batman Returns.

Played through the game's story and on this point again - When Catwoman wakes up, a goon asks what they'll do. Another goon replies that they'll kill her again. Yet another BR reference, in terms of the supernatural element Burton alluded to.

The Robin DLC is now available to download. I'll get around to doing so soon. Anybody else played it?

Now that we've had a decent length of time playing AC, where do you rank it among the other Batman games?

Edit: In the last Catwoman level, Two-Face says "the first to find her will be my right hand...guy." He says this in a very similar fashion to Nicholson. Play through that part again or find it on Youtube and you'll see what I mean.

I have. Robin's got a shorter arm length than bats, but he's almost better to play as, actually. At one point, he pulled a 'Neo in the Burly Brawl' in one of the fighter challenges I tested, with his ninja stick thing running in a circle. Not as long as The One's, of course, but awesome.

As to where AC ranks, I guess you'd have to put each game in it's time, or you end up comparing William Blake to Ronald Mcdonald.  Still, I'd say all in all this game is in the number 2 spot behind Arkham Asylum. I touched on that reasoning (as did you more eloquently), but to reiterate, and this coming from a guy who loves sandbox games resoundingly, the intimacy of AA made the experience richer, the sights more enthralling/shocking, the atmosphere more encompassing, and the urgency more tangible. 

Downloaded Robin. Catwoman remains my favourite non Batman character to play as, given how she's vastly different to the others. Especially in the stealth levels. I do like playing as Robin, though. More so than Nightwing.

As for ranking the games, again it's tough to do. AC is the better game, but the heart is with AA.

Interesting find

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=svmiKCBqgkM

Some random thoughts for anyone that might be reading these halls... "Best Batman" or "best superhero/comics" etc. game isn't saying much, these games are some of the best Batman movies, only made in the form of video games.

This applies to other genres as well, the cutscenes alone from the Uncharted games are worth more as "movies" than the entire length of Indiana Jones Kingdom of the Crystal Skull... Resident Evil works better as a cheesy horror B-movie than actual cheesy horror B-movies one can find on the video club shelf (and it's a million times better than its Paul WS Anderson movie "adaptations")... God of War III works much better as a mythological/scord & sorcery epic than Clash of the Titans... The Dead Space games are second only to classic sci-fi horror by Ridley Scott, Cameron, Carpenter etc.... Castlevania: Lords of Shadow was the best fantasy/sword & sorcery "film" since Lord of the Rings... Mass Effect is maybe the best sci-fi universe of recent years, some say it's better and more mature than Star Wars..

Even with these advances in technology, the medium is still young, in time more people will finally admit that games have always been a story telling medium. Classic adventures by Lucasarts, Sierra etc. are some retro examples, there are some great movies hidden behind the cheesy (but always charming) pixel art, the Soundblaster chiptunes, or the hammy voice acting of early CD-rom games.

When cinema or comics were still young, there were very few people ready to admit that they are art. Same goes for games.

/end of rant lol

New DLC may be on the horizon.

http://www.shacknews.com/article/73155/batman-arkham-city-dlc-hinted-with-new-trophies (http://www.shacknews.com/article/73155/batman-arkham-city-dlc-hinted-with-new-trophies)

Batman: Arkham City released last year, and received a few downloadable content packs featuring Robin and Nightwing as playable Challenge Maps. That would seem to indicate the end of that particular DLC, but a new set of Trophies seems to indicate we'll get a new story episode. Ending spoilers follow.

The new PlayStation 3 Trophies found on PS3Trophies.org (via CVG) point toward featuring the Joker's groupie, Harley Quinn. The most significant clue likely comes from a Trophy called "A Few New Tricks," which reads: "Use 5 different Quickfire gadgets in one fight as Robin in Harley Quinn's Revenge." This could point toward post-game content, since the game's ending certainly leaves Harley plenty of reason to seek revenge.

We heard some indication of continuing plot episodes before the game released, when Batman voice actor Kevin Conroy said he was recording extra voice work for downloadable episodes. Those episodes are taking their time coming to fruition, but here's hoping they hit the market. Serial pieces of plot should fit a comic property to a T.

The official Arkham City feeds released an image that appears to be Harley and her hammer.

Right you are.

QuoteThe Harley Quinn's Revenge mission sends players back into Arkham City to face their final challenge as they interchange between playing as both Batman and Robin. Gamers must utilize each of the characters' unique combat and investigative skills to uncover Harley's vengeful plan and shut the gates on the urban mega-prison forever. In addition to experiencing a new storyline, fans can explore new environments and face-off against Harley's all new gang of thugs.

The final chapter in Batman: Arkham City that adds more than two hours of original gameplay to the critically-acclaimed interactive title.

The all new Batman: Arkham City story content in 'Harley Quinn's Revenge' will be available to purchase individually from May 29th.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXkuaCEXmiY

This looks very good and will be worth the wait, I think.

One thing about the Arkham series, is for the most part, the story is as compelling as the gameplay.

Arkham City: Armoured Edition announced for Wii U.

http://uk.ign.com/articles/2012/06/05/e3-2012-batman-arkham-city-for-wii-u-detailed

THE MAKING OF: BATMAN ARKHAM CITY (http://www.edge-online.com/features/the-making-of-batman-arkham-city/)
(edge-online.com)

"That's certainly one word for it. Others might include: ghoulish, bloody, barbaric... Far from the Gothic fairy tales of the Burton-verse, the funfair theatrics of the Schumacher-verse, or the moral shades of the Nolan-verse, the Arkham-verse is a videogame realm, agrees Walker, echoing the sentiments of Paul Dini. If Batman DNA only accounts for half a Batman story, then here the rest is Rocksteady, the mind behind the civil unrest in Urban Chaos: Riot Response."

(https://www.batman-online.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.edge-online.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fedgeonline%2F2012%2F12%2FBatman-Arkham-City-610x340.jpg&hash=11db40e140c04c3d75885026edd3823d105270e4) (http://www.edge-online.com/features/the-making-of-batman-arkham-city/)

WHY BATMAN: ARKHAM CITY IS ONE OF THE GREATEST GAMES EVER MADE (http://www.gamesradar.com/why-batman-arkham-city-one-greatest-games-ever-made/)
(gamesradar.com)

"Where the first game transcended its licensed roots to repeatedly earn the now hackneyed praise of "The best superhero game and a great game in its own right", Arkham City goes one further. It's not just the best Batman game ever made. It's one of the best adaptations of Batman in any medium."

(https://www.batman-online.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2F17f0418678386b4e6860-e4f9fcd924b589d19bf6ccc2802ea9aa.r66.cf1.rackcdn.com%2F4c3cbba565a3b3b9b2dda31b053ab15eab8f9b49.jpg__620x250_q85_crop_upscale.jpg&hash=f835346334d979be68cb34ec197b69a41e920095) (http://www.gamesradar.com/why-batman-arkham-city-one-greatest-games-ever-made/)

I've owned this game since Christmas 2011 and haven't yet played a frame of it. Am I truly in for something special as these critics say? Will have to try it out this week...

Quote from: Bobthegoon89 on Sun, 27 Jan  2013, 15:48
I've owned this game since Christmas 2011 and haven't yet played a frame of it.

"Bob, gun"

Quote from: SilentEnigma on Sun, 27 Jan  2013, 17:44

Quote from: Bobthegoon89 on Sun, 27 Jan  2013, 15:48
I've owned this game since Christmas 2011 and haven't yet played a frame of it.

"Bob, gun"

Hahahaha
Think I'll be needing a moment alone then  :)

Quote from: Bobthegoon89 on Sun, 27 Jan  2013, 15:48
I've owned this game since Christmas 2011 and haven't yet played a frame of it. Am I truly in for something special as these critics say? Will have to try it out this week...

I actually think that Arkham Asylum has a better story and better story pacing, but it's not to say that "City" is any less awesome!

SPOILERS WARNING

Thanks for posting, SilentEnigma. I think I spotted most of those when I played the game. But some of them – especially the ones relating to Harley's pregnancy – are completely new to me.

I wonder if Dini was planning to explore the Joker's offspring storyline more in the sequel.

Quote from: Silver Nemesis on Tue, 29 Jan  2013, 21:07
I wonder if Dini was planning to explore the Joker's offspring storyline more in the sequel.

That's if they do a sequel. It's looking like it may be a prequel.

MOST OVERWROUGHT BOXART OF 2012 - BATMAN: ARKHAM CITY GOTY (http://www.gamesradar.com/anti-awards-2012/)
(gamesradar.com)

(https://www.batman-online.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2F17f0418678386b4e6860-e4f9fcd924b589d19bf6ccc2802ea9aa.r66.cf1.rackcdn.com%2Fd89888ef8be5bee61430a6ff58b3726d06dc3900.jpg__576x480_q85.jpg&hash=89fc06c3d980ceace733e1f2d6d48f54cb48f501) (http://www.gamesradar.com/anti-awards-2012/)

Quote"Riddle me this, Batman! Why, when box art gives readers their first impression of a game, do you bury your hero in text?" We're used to seeing Game of the Year editions of hit titles feature a couple quotes and accolades, but when Warner Bros. conceived the GOTY edition of Batman: Arkham City, the publisher seemed to forget they were selling Batman instead of game reviews.

"10 out of 10" displaces the logo. Batman's head is surrounded by abundant quotes that suggest the designer was paid by the word. A lengthy description of bonus content tears a bright red gash in the cover. Then, in an effort to obscure Batman just a little bit more, five more logos were added to the bottom. And Warner Bros. didn't even quote GamesRadar on the box, not that we're offended or anything. Oh well, at least this confusing mess inspired our Anti-Game of the Year box art feature.

http://www.gamesradar.com/anti-awards-2012/  #7

I hadn't played this game for the longest time, but that changed yesterday.

Of the three Rocksteady games I would place this at the top.

An aspect of City I really like is how it deals with Batman's mortality. In storytelling I'm always looking to place the hero or villain in a position of weakness while simultaneously being strong through sheer will and courage. The last hours of Batman's life are ticking away but he decides that saving innocents is more important than his own welfare. The Joker is also hours away from dying and he's desperately pulling out all the stops to survive.

When things start to get down to the wire, I find this a standout moment:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4lhtfdz-GQ

One vial left, no more can be made, and an armored heavy stands in the way while your condition weakens. It's a great scenario, and as tense as anything the best films in the franchise have offered.