Summary
- Release Year: 2013
- Genres: Adventure, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up, Shooter
- Platforms: Nintendo 3DS, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation Vita, Wii U
- Developers: Armature Studio
- Publishers: Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc., WB Games
Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate (2013) Review
A Gritty and Immersive Prequel to the Arkhamverse
Released in 2013, Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate is a 2.5D Metroidvania-style action-adventure game developed by Armature Studio and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. The game is a prequel to the critically acclaimed Batman: Arkham Asylum and Batman: Arkham City, and tells the story of a young and unrefined Batman as he faces a defining moment in his early career as a crime fighter.
Gameplay
Arkham Origins Blackgate retains the core gameplay mechanics of the Arkham series, including the free-flow combat system, stealth takedowns, and detective mode. However, the game also introduces some new features, such as the ability to use gadgets and environmental objects to solve puzzles and progress through the game world.
The game is set in the sprawling Blackgate Prison, which has been taken over by a group of dangerous criminals led by the Joker. Batman must fight his way through the prison, taking down the Joker’s henchmen and eventually confronting the Joker himself. Along the way, Batman will also encounter other iconic villains from the Batman mythos, such as Catwoman, Deadshot, and Bane.
Story
The story of Arkham Origins Blackgate is set several years before the events of Arkham Asylum and Arkham City. A young and inexperienced Batman is still struggling to come to terms with his role as a crime fighter. He is haunted by the death of his parents, and he is driven by a desire for justice.
When the Joker takes over Blackgate Prison, Batman sees it as an opportunity to prove himself. He infiltrates the prison and begins to take down the Joker’s henchmen. However, Batman soon realizes that the Joker’s plan is more sinister than he could have ever imagined.
The Joker has planted a bomb in Gotham City, and he is threatening to detonate it unless Batman surrenders. Batman must race against time to stop the Joker and save the city.
Characters
Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate features a cast of iconic characters from the Batman mythos.
- Batman: A young and unrefined Batman, still struggling to come to terms with his role as a crime fighter.
- The Joker: Batman’s arch-nemesis, a sadistic and unpredictable criminal mastermind.
- Catwoman: A skilled thief and occasional ally of Batman.
- Deadshot: A deadly assassin with a reputation for never missing a target.
- Bane: A powerful and ruthless mercenary who is enhanced by the drug Venom.
Graphics and Sound
Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate features a dark and gritty art style that is reminiscent of the Arkham Asylum and Arkham City games. The game’s environments are detailed and atmospheric, and the character models are well-animated.
The game’s sound design is also top-notch. The voice acting is excellent, and the sound effects are immersive and realistic. The game’s soundtrack is also very good, and it helps to create a sense of atmosphere and tension.
Reception
Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate received generally positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its engaging story, well-designed gameplay, and excellent graphics and sound. However, some critics found the game to be too short and repetitive.
Overall, Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate is a solid addition to the Arkham series. It is a well-crafted and enjoyable game that offers a unique and interesting take on the Batman mythos.
Score: 8.5/10
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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