How to Play the Batman Games in Order: A Journey Through Gotham's Shadows and Beyond

The Batman video game series, primarily developed by Rocksteady Studios and WB Games Montréal, has captivated players with its immersive storytelling, intricate gameplay mechanics, and faithful representation of the Dark Knight’s universe. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the series, playing the Batman games in order can enhance your experience by allowing you to follow the narrative arc and witness the evolution of gameplay. This guide will walk you through the recommended order to play the Batman games, while also exploring some unconventional perspectives on how these games intersect with broader themes in gaming culture.
1. Batman: Arkham Origins (2013)
- Why Start Here?
Although Arkham Origins was released after Arkham Asylum and Arkham City, it serves as a prequel to the series. Set on Christmas Eve, the game explores a younger, less-experienced Batman as he faces off against eight assassins hired to kill him. This entry provides crucial backstory and sets the stage for the events of the main trilogy. - Key Features:
- Introduces key characters like Alfred, Commissioner Gordon, and the Joker.
- Features a sprawling open-world Gotham City.
- Includes a multiplayer mode, a rarity in the series.
- Unconventional Take:
Playing Arkham Origins first can feel like watching a prequel movie before diving into the main series. It’s a unique way to experience Batman’s growth from a vengeful vigilante to the seasoned hero we know.
2. Batman: Arkham Asylum (2009)
- The Groundbreaking Beginning:
Arkham Asylum is where the series truly began, revolutionizing superhero games with its tight narrative, atmospheric setting, and innovative combat system. The game follows Batman as he tries to regain control of Arkham Asylum after the Joker orchestrates a massive breakout. - Key Features:
- Introduces the Freeflow Combat System.
- Features iconic villains like Scarecrow, Poison Ivy, and Killer Croc.
- Offers a Metroidvania-style progression system.
- Unconventional Take:
Arkham Asylum’s claustrophobic setting can be seen as a metaphor for Batman’s psychological struggles, making it a deeply personal story despite its action-packed exterior.
3. Batman: Arkham City (2011)
- Expanding the World:
Arkham City takes the series to new heights by introducing an open-world Gotham City. The game follows Batman as he navigates a sprawling prison complex to uncover Hugo Strange’s mysterious “Protocol 10.” - Key Features:
- Introduces playable Catwoman segments.
- Expands the roster of villains, including Mr. Freeze and Two-Face.
- Features a more refined combat system and additional gadgets.
- Unconventional Take:
The game’s open-world design can be interpreted as a commentary on urban decay and the failures of the justice system, themes that resonate deeply in today’s society.
4. Batman: Arkham Knight (2015)
- The Epic Conclusion:
Arkham Knight concludes the main trilogy with a darker, more intense story. The game introduces the mysterious Arkham Knight and explores Batman’s psychological struggles as he faces his greatest fears. - Key Features:
- Introduces the Batmobile as a central gameplay element.
- Features a larger, more detailed Gotham City.
- Includes multiple endings, adding replay value.
- Unconventional Take:
The Batmobile, while divisive among fans, can be seen as a metaphor for Batman’s reliance on technology and the potential dangers of losing touch with his humanity.
5. Batman: Arkham VR (2016)
- A Virtual Reality Experience:
Arkham VR offers a shorter, more intimate experience, allowing players to step into Batman’s boots using VR technology. The game focuses on detective work and puzzle-solving rather than combat. - Key Features:
- Immersive VR gameplay.
- Focuses on storytelling and atmosphere.
- Provides a unique perspective on Batman’s world.
- Unconventional Take:
Arkham VR can be seen as a meditation on the nature of identity, as players literally embody Batman and experience his world firsthand.
6. Gotham Knights (2022)
- A New Chapter:
While not part of the Arkham series, Gotham Knights offers a fresh take on the Batman universe. Set after Batman’s apparent death, the game follows the Bat Family as they protect Gotham from the Court of Owls. - Key Features:
- Playable characters include Nightwing, Batgirl, Robin, and Red Hood.
- Features a cooperative multiplayer mode.
- Introduces a new open-world Gotham City.
- Unconventional Take:
Gotham Knights challenges the notion of Batman as an irreplaceable figure, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and legacy.
7. Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League (2023)
- A Bold Departure:
This upcoming game shifts the focus from Batman to the Suicide Squad, who are tasked with taking down a brainwashed Justice League. While Batman’s role is unclear, the game is set in the Arkham universe. - Key Features:
- Playable characters include Harley Quinn, Deadshot, Captain Boomerang, and King Shark.
- Features a live-service model with ongoing content updates.
- Explores the consequences of the Arkham series’ events.
- Unconventional Take:
The game’s premise raises questions about heroism and morality, as players are forced to confront the idea of killing iconic heroes.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to play the Batman games in order?
A: While it’s not strictly necessary, playing the games in order enhances the narrative experience and allows you to appreciate the evolution of gameplay mechanics.
Q: Are the Batman games connected to the comics or movies?
A: The games exist in their own continuity, though they draw heavily from the comics and occasionally reference the movies.
Q: Which Batman game is the best?
A: This is subjective, but Arkham City is often regarded as the pinnacle of the series due to its perfect balance of story, gameplay, and world-building.
Q: Can I skip Arkham Origins?
A: While Arkham Origins is not essential to the main trilogy, it provides valuable context and is worth playing for its unique story and gameplay.
Q: Will there be more Batman games after Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League?
A: While nothing has been officially announced, the success of the series makes it likely that more Batman-related games will be developed in the future.
By following this guide, you’ll not only experience the Batman games in a way that maximizes their narrative and gameplay impact but also gain a deeper appreciation for the themes and ideas that make the series so compelling. Whether you’re gliding through Gotham or unraveling the mysteries of the Arkham universe, the journey is sure to be unforgettable.