What Order to Play Batman Games: A Journey Through Gotham's Shadows

What Order to Play Batman Games: A Journey Through Gotham's Shadows

The Batman video game series, primarily developed by Rocksteady Studios and WB Games Montréal, offers a rich narrative experience that spans across multiple titles. Deciding the order in which to play these games can significantly enhance your understanding of the story and the evolution of gameplay mechanics. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through Gotham’s dark alleys and towering skyscrapers.

1. Batman: Arkham Origins (2013)

  • Why Start Here? Although it was released after Arkham Asylum and Arkham City, Arkham Origins serves as a prequel to the series. It introduces a younger, less experienced Batman, setting the stage for the events that follow.
  • Gameplay and Story: The game focuses on Batman’s early years, his first encounters with key villains like the Joker, and the establishment of his reputation in Gotham. The gameplay mechanics are similar to the previous titles, but with some refinements.

2. Batman: Arkham Asylum (2009)

  • The Beginning of the Arkham Saga: This is where the Arkham series truly begins. Arkham Asylum is a tightly crafted game that introduces players to the core mechanics and the dark, atmospheric world of Batman.
  • Gameplay and Story: The game is set within the confines of Arkham Asylum, where Batman must thwart the Joker’s plans to take over the facility. The combat system, detective mode, and stealth mechanics are all introduced here, setting the standard for future games.

3. Batman: Arkham City (2011)

  • Expanding the World: Arkham City takes the action outside the asylum and into a larger, open-world environment. This game builds on the foundation laid by Arkham Asylum and introduces new gameplay elements.
  • Gameplay and Story: The story continues from Arkham Asylum, with Batman now dealing with a new threat in the form of Hugo Strange and the mysterious Protocol 10. The game introduces more villains, side missions, and a deeper exploration of Batman’s detective skills.

4. Batman: Arkham Knight (2015)

  • The Climactic Conclusion: Arkham Knight is the final chapter in the Arkham series, bringing the story to a dramatic close. It introduces the Batmobile as a central gameplay element and pushes the graphical and technical limits of the series.
  • Gameplay and Story: The game picks up after the events of Arkham City, with Gotham City under siege by the Scarecrow and the mysterious Arkham Knight. The narrative is darker and more intense, with a focus on Batman’s psychological struggles and his relationship with the Joker.

5. Batman: Arkham VR (2016)

  • A Virtual Reality Experience: While not a traditional game in the series, Arkham VR offers a unique perspective on the Batman universe. It’s a shorter, more narrative-driven experience that uses VR to immerse players in Batman’s world.
  • Gameplay and Story: The game is set between Arkham City and Arkham Knight, focusing on Batman’s detective skills as he investigates a series of murders. The VR format allows for a more intimate and immersive experience.

6. Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate (2013)

  • A Side Story: This 2.5D platformer serves as a companion to Arkham Origins, offering a different perspective on the events of that game. It’s a smaller-scale experience but still worth playing for fans of the series.
  • Gameplay and Story: The game is set after Arkham Origins, with Batman investigating a riot at Blackgate Prison. The gameplay combines elements of platforming, combat, and detective work, with a focus on exploration.

7. Gotham Knights (2022)

  • A New Chapter: While not directly part of the Arkham series, Gotham Knights is set in the same universe and offers a fresh take on the Batman mythos. It focuses on the Bat-family rather than Batman himself.
  • Gameplay and Story: The game is set after the apparent death of Batman, with his allies—Nightwing, Batgirl, Robin, and Red Hood—taking up the mantle to protect Gotham. The gameplay emphasizes co-op play and a more RPG-like progression system.

8. Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League (2023)

  • A Different Perspective: This upcoming game shifts the focus from Batman to the Suicide Squad, offering a new perspective on the Arkham universe. It’s a departure from the traditional Batman games but still connected to the same world.
  • Gameplay and Story: The game is set after the events of Arkham Knight, with the Suicide Squad tasked with taking down a brainwashed Justice League. The gameplay is more action-oriented, with a focus on team-based combat and open-world exploration.

Q: Can I play Arkham Knight without playing the previous games? A: While Arkham Knight can be enjoyed on its own, playing the previous games will provide a deeper understanding of the story and characters.

Q: Is Gotham Knights a direct sequel to Arkham Knight? A: No, Gotham Knights is set in the same universe but focuses on different characters and events. It’s more of a spin-off than a direct sequel.

Q: Are the Arkham games connected to the Batman movies? A: No, the Arkham games have their own continuity and are not directly connected to any of the Batman movies.

Q: What is the best order to play the Arkham games for the full story experience? A: The best order is Arkham Origins, Arkham Asylum, Arkham City, Arkham Knight, and then Arkham VR. This order follows the chronological timeline of the story.

Q: Will there be more Arkham games after Arkham Knight? A: As of now, Arkham Knight is the final chapter in the main series, but spin-offs like Gotham Knights and Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League continue to expand the universe.