How to Play Batman Arkham Games in Order: A Journey Through Gotham's Shadows and the Mysteries of Time Travel

How to Play Batman Arkham Games in Order: A Journey Through Gotham's Shadows and the Mysteries of Time Travel

The Batman Arkham series is a masterpiece of storytelling, gameplay, and atmosphere, offering players an immersive experience into the dark and gritty world of Gotham City. To fully appreciate the narrative and character development, it’s essential to play the games in the correct order. But what if the order itself is a puzzle, much like the Riddler’s challenges? Let’s dive into the recommended sequence and explore some unconventional thoughts along the way.

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 his evolution into the Dark Knight we know and love.
  • Key Themes: The game explores Batman’s early years, his first encounters with iconic villains like the Joker, and the formation of his moral code. It’s a great starting point for understanding the character’s origins and motivations.

2. Batman: Arkham Asylum (2009)

  • The Classic Beginning: This is where it all began. Arkham Asylum is a tightly crafted experience that introduces players to the core mechanics of the series, such as stealth, combat, and detective work.
  • Atmosphere and Story: The game’s claustrophobic setting within the asylum creates a sense of dread and tension. The story, written by Paul Dini, is a psychological thriller that delves into Batman’s psyche and his relationship with the Joker.

3. Batman: Arkham City (2011)

  • Expanding the World: Arkham City takes the formula of Arkham Asylum and expands it into an open-world environment. Players can explore a larger section of Gotham, encountering more villains and side missions.
  • Narrative Depth: The game continues the story from Arkham Asylum, with Batman facing off against a coalition of villains led by Hugo Strange. The stakes are higher, and the emotional weight of the story is more pronounced, especially with the inclusion of Catwoman and the tragic fate of the Joker.

4. Batman: Arkham Knight (2015)

  • The Epic Conclusion: Arkham Knight is the final chapter in the series, bringing the story to a dramatic and emotional conclusion. The game introduces the Batmobile, adding a new layer of gameplay.
  • Themes of Fear and Identity: The game explores themes of fear, identity, and legacy. Batman is pushed to his limits as he confronts the mysterious Arkham Knight and the return of the Scarecrow. The ending is both satisfying and bittersweet, leaving players with a sense of closure.

5. Batman: Arkham VR (2016)

  • A Different Perspective: While not a traditional entry in the series, Arkham VR offers a unique experience by placing players directly in Batman’s shoes. It’s a shorter, more focused game that delves into the detective side of Batman’s character.
  • Immersive Storytelling: The VR format allows for a more intimate and immersive storytelling experience. It’s a must-play for fans who want to see Gotham from a new perspective.

6. Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate (2013)

  • A Side Story: This handheld game serves as a companion piece to Arkham Origins. It follows Batman as he investigates a riot at Blackgate Prison.
  • 2.5D Gameplay: The game features 2.5D gameplay, blending side-scrolling action with the exploration and puzzle-solving elements of the main series. It’s a fun diversion for fans looking for more Batman content.

7. Batman: Arkham Underworld (2016)

  • A Different Take: This mobile game flips the script by allowing players to take on the role of a Gotham villain, building their own criminal empire. While not part of the main series, it offers a fresh perspective on the Arkham universe.
  • Strategy and Management: The game focuses on strategy and resource management, giving players a taste of what it’s like to be on the other side of the law in Gotham.

8. Batman: Arkham City Lockdown (2011)

  • Mobile Combat: Another mobile entry, Arkham City Lockdown focuses on combat, with players taking on various villains in one-on-one battles.
  • Quick and Fun: It’s a quick and fun way to experience the Arkham universe on the go, though it lacks the depth of the main series.

9. Batman: Arkham Collection (2019)

  • The Definitive Experience: This collection includes Arkham Asylum, Arkham City, and Arkham Knight, along with all DLC content. It’s the perfect way to experience the entire series in one package.
  • Enhanced Graphics: The collection features enhanced graphics and performance, making it the best way to play these classic games on modern hardware.

10. Batman: Arkham Legacy (Rumored)

  • The Future of Arkham: While not officially confirmed, rumors of a new Arkham game, possibly titled Arkham Legacy, have been circulating. If true, it could continue the story or explore new directions within the Arkham universe.
  • Speculation and Hype: Fans are eagerly awaiting any news, hoping for a return to the dark and immersive world that made the series so beloved.

Q: Can I skip Arkham Origins and still understand the story? A: While Arkham Origins is a prequel, it provides valuable context for Batman’s early years and his relationships with key characters. Skipping it might leave you missing some nuances, but the main trilogy (Asylum, City, Knight) can still be enjoyed on its own.

Q: Is Arkham VR necessary to understand the main story? A: No, Arkham VR is more of a supplementary experience. It offers a unique perspective but doesn’t significantly impact the main narrative of the series.

Q: Are the mobile games worth playing? A: The mobile games (Underworld, Lockdown) are fun diversions but don’t carry the same weight as the main series. They’re worth checking out if you’re a die-hard fan, but they’re not essential to the overall story.

Q: What order should I play the DLCs in? A: It’s best to play the DLCs after completing the main story of each game. They often provide additional context or side stories that enhance the overall experience.

Q: Will there be more Arkham games in the future? A: While nothing has been officially announced, the Arkham universe is rich with potential. Fans remain hopeful for a new installment that continues or expands upon the legacy of the series.