At E3 this year, I had the opportunity to check out one of this year's most anticipated games, Batman: Arkham Asylum. Warner Brothers and Eidos had booths with demos available to play. They didn't just stop there though. Both Warner Bros and Eidos made sure their demoing areas were adorned with Batman decor and a Batmobile. At the Warner Brothers booth I got to ask some important questions as well as get my fix of the demo.
More after the jump!
The first thing you notice from the demo is the game's gritty art style. Combine that with the voice talent of Mark Hamill and Kevin Conroy and you are flashing back to fond memories of the TV show Batman: The Animated Series. The first portion of the demo consist of getting to know the combat system. At a glance it may feel like a brawler but once all the elements of the gameplay come together you are left feeling like you've fallen into the pages of another Batman adventure. Quickly you will realized that this game is very true to the real comic Batman. He is just a human detective with his trusted gadgets. You will not only pull off some bone-breaking combos but you will utilize detective mode. Detective mode lets you view your enemy's heart rate to determine their state. This will come in handy when deciding how quiet you want to be.
Most importantly the story of Arkham Asylum takes place in one night... One night of hell from Batman's standpoint. Once again the Joker is up to his tricks and lets himself be caught and taken into Arkham Asylum. The mood is tense because Batman and Gordon know something is not right. They have good reason too because no sooner do they exchange concern, the Joker is loose and running through Arkham Asylum springing villains free. Since Batman is subjected to a night of hell, his character's damage will show in his bruises and torn costume. He will even gain some handsome Bat-stubble. Also be prepared to gain some stubble of your own because the game is said to be 15-20 hours of gameplay.
Arkham Asylum also has some neat features that add to the perfect Batman game. Batman will have upgradeable abilities as you progress through the story which is great for tackling tougher enemies in the asylum. Also, every character you encounter in the game will have their own bios. Much like Bioshock's tape recordings, you will be able to find patient interviews for each of the characters as you play through the story.
Overall, the game feels like it will capture just what Batman is all about: using clues, combat, smarts, and of course Batarangs, to bring villains to justice. The plot is not only intriguing but seems to stay true to comic Batman. It is also packed full of the coolest and craziest Batman villains around. I have no doubt it will not only be one of the better super hero games but a must have this fall. It appeals to a broad range of players because of its linear story with a more open ended environment and it combines multiple gameplay elements. I must say I am even more excited for Arkham Asylum's release!
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