Summary
- Genres: Adventure
- Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
- Developers: Day 1 Studios
- Publishers: THQ
Gotham by Gaslight: A Batman Tale Lost to Time
In the annals of unreleased video games, few titles are as tantalizing as Gotham by Gaslight. Set in a steampunk-infused Victorian-era Gotham City, the game would have followed Batman as he tracked down the infamous serial killer Jack the Ripper.
Development on Gotham by Gaslight began in 2009 at Day 1 Studios, a developer known for its work on F.E.A.R. and Fracture. The game was ambitious, featuring a sprawling open-world Gotham City, a deep combat system, and a gripping storyline that would have explored Batman’s origins and his relationship with the Ripper.
Concept illustrations and early prototype gameplay footage released after the game’s cancellation show a truly unique and visually stunning world. Gotham City is a dark and oppressive place, its cobblestone streets lit by gas lamps and its skyline dominated by towering Gothic architecture. Batman is depicted in a steampunk-inspired suit, complete with brass knuckles and a gas-powered grappling hook.
The combat system in Gotham by Gaslight was designed to be both brutal and tactical. Batman could use a variety of gadgets and weapons to subdue his enemies, including batarangs, smoke bombs, and a grappling hook. He could also perform a variety of hand-to-hand combat moves, including stealth takedowns and brutal finishers.
The storyline of Gotham by Gaslight was reportedly inspired by the graphic novel of the same name by Brian Augustyn and Mike Mignola. In the novel, Batman investigates a series of murders committed by Jack the Ripper, who has escaped from Arkham Asylum. The game would have expanded on this premise, exploring Batman’s relationship with the Ripper and the psychological toll that the investigation takes on him.
Gotham by Gaslight was scheduled to be released in 2011, but development was halted when THQ, the game’s publisher, failed to secure the rights to the Batman license. Day 1 Studios was forced to lay off most of its staff, and Gotham by Gaslight was officially cancelled.
The cancellation of Gotham by Gaslight was a major disappointment for fans of the Batman Arkham series and steampunk games. The game’s unique setting, gripping storyline, and innovative combat system had the potential to make it one of the most memorable Batman games ever made.
Despite its cancellation, Gotham by Gaslight remains a fascinating glimpse into a world where Batman and Jack the Ripper collide. The concept art and prototype footage that have been released show a game that was truly ahead of its time. It is a shame that we will never get to experience the full game, but Gotham by Gaslight will always be remembered as one of the greatest unreleased video games of all time.
What Could Have Been
It is impossible to say for sure what Gotham by Gaslight would have been like if it had been released. However, based on the concept art and prototype footage that have been released, it is clear that the game had the potential to be something truly special.
The game’s setting was one of its most unique and appealing features. Victorian-era Gotham City is a dark and oppressive place, but it is also a city full of potential. The game could have explored the city’s rich history and its many iconic landmarks.
The combat system in Gotham by Gaslight was also very promising. The game’s focus on stealth and gadgets would have made it a refreshing change from the more action-oriented Batman Arkham games. The hand-to-hand combat system also looked very fluid and satisfying.
Finally, the storyline of Gotham by Gaslight had the potential to be one of the most compelling Batman stories ever told. The game would have explored Batman’s origins and his relationship with the Ripper in a way that no other game had done before.
Legacy
Despite its cancellation, Gotham by Gaslight has had a lasting impact on the Batman franchise. The game’s unique setting and dark tone have influenced subsequent Batman games, such as Batman: Arkham Knight and Batman: The Telltale Series.
The game has also inspired a number of fan-made projects, including a popular mod for Batman: Arkham City that recreates the game’s setting and some of its gameplay elements.
Gotham by Gaslight is a testament to the creativity and passion of the developers at Day 1 Studios. It is a game that could have been something truly special, and it is a shame that we will never get to experience it in its full glory. However, the game’s legacy will continue to inspire Batman fans for years to come.
Review Score
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