Following the release of the very first Batman-themed game back in 1986, titles relating to Bruce Wayne’s famous alter ego have become central to gaming’s superhero genre. Throughout the timeline of Batman video games, however, there are subtle differences and similarities between those which have proved immensely popular and others which have somewhat gone under the radar.
Here, we’re going to compare the best and lesser-known Batman-themed video games.
A Franchise Renowned for Many Iconic Titles
The success of the Arkham franchise has brought fans of the superhero genre a selection of award-winning games since 2009. Despite the fact that technology within the gaming industry has developed over the last 11 years, Batman: Arkham Asylum is still regarded as one of the best Batman-related video games, even though it was the first release in the Arkham franchise. Developed by Rocksteady Studios and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, the 2009 open-world game has, in the eyes of many, paved the way for more contemporary, revolutionary titles. Although he doesn’t physically appear during gameplay, the inclusion of the Riddler provides another layer to the already well-thought-out video game, which sees Batman once again take on the Joker following his assault on Gotham City Hall.
When analysing the many Batman-related video games that have been released in recent years, it’s difficult to look beyond those in the Arkham trilogy when seeking to find the very best. However, Batman: The Telltale Series, an episodic point-and-click adventure game, has brought a different feel to the traditionally third-person franchise. The second series, titled Batman: The Enemy Within, places a heightened emphasis on in-game decision-making elements as a more in-depth picture of the relationship between Bruce Wayne’s alter ego and the Joker is painted, with Telltale Games seeking to raise the emotional stakes.
The Successes of Lesser-Known Batman Games on Alternative Platforms
While many of the games within the Arkham franchise were designed for traditional consoles and PCs, Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate is one of the series’ lesser-known titles as it was initially released for the Nintendo 3DS and PlayStation Vita. The 2013 game differs from the above releases as its interactivity, from a movement standpoint, is limited to side-scrolling motions as Armature Studios opted for 2D visuals that are aided by dynamic angles. Much like Arkham Asylum, there is real depth to this portable game. They ensure this by including numerous enemies, such as Black Mask, Joker, and Penguin, who are surrounded by varying sub-plots throughout diverse environments within Gotham.
In addition to the remote possibilities that are on offer across titles such as Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate on handheld consoles, lesser-known Batman-themed games within the iGaming industry have also found success as a result of their heightened convenience. Batman Begins, which is one of six Batman-related developments at Videoslots, among a large range of casino game offerings. It is a five-reel slot game that is inspired by the classic 2005 film. Similarly to the console releases, this themed title provides an insight into the various locations throughout Gotham, as backdrops including Arkham Asylum, Wayne Manor, The Batcave, and more, add to the immersive nature of this lesser-known development.
Different Platforms and Visuals, Yet the Same Immersive Feel
As demonstrated through the above titles, irrespective of the console or chosen camera angles, Batman-themed titles have become some of the most immersive within the gaming and iGaming sectors. Although each takes a unique approach to development, the choice of in-game characters typically remains consistent, while settings and visual backgrounds all remain similar, despite cinematic differences.
