Batman™: Arkham Knight
" Immersive action-adventure with fluid combat and Batmobile gameplay but repetitive vehicle segments "
Batman™: Arkham Knight Review
Batman: Arkham Knight is widely regarded as a spectacular conclusion to the Arkham trilogy, praised for its breathtaking visuals, refined combat, and immersive Gotham City. Players highlight the game's atmospheric open world filled with rich detail, engaging side missions, and a psychologically complex storyline featuring iconic villains like the Joker and Scarecrow. The narrative explores Batman's psyche deeply, delivering emotional weight and memorable performances from Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill.
While the Batmobile adds a new dimension to gameplay, its frequent use and tank combat segments receive mixed reactions, with some players finding them overused or repetitive. Despite minor pacing issues and occasional predictability in story twists, the game maintains high replayability through abundant challenges and side content. Even years after release, Arkham Knight's graphics and gameplay mechanics hold up remarkably well, making it a definitive Batman experience and a beloved title among fans and newcomers alike.
Highlights
Players praise the game's fluid and dynamic combat system, which is tighter and more satisfying than previous entries. The richly detailed Gotham City is lauded for its stunning visuals and atmospheric design, creating an immersive playground for Batman.
The storyline is commended for its emotional depth and psychological complexity, especially the haunting presence of the Joker and the compelling portrayal of Bruce Wayne's internal struggles. The addition of the Batmobile, though divisive, is recognized for adding fresh gameplay layers and thrilling moments.
Voice acting and soundtrack receive high marks, enhancing the cinematic feel and overall immersion of the game.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the overuse of the Batmobile,
Some players feel the story, while emotionally charged, can be predictable and weaker compared to Arkham City. The abundance of collectibles, especially the extensive Riddler challenges, is viewed as tedious and a grind by many.
Optimization issues at launch and occasional bugs were noted, though most are minor. Additionally, some side missions are considered less engaging, and the game’s pacing can feel uneven due to these factors.
Pros
- • Fluid and satisfying combat system with diverse enemy types and tactics.
- • Stunning, atmospheric open-world Gotham City with rich environmental detail.
- • Deep, emotionally complex storyline exploring Batman’s psyche.
- • Outstanding voice acting, especially by Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill.
- • The Batmobile adds innovative gameplay elements and thrilling sequences.
- • Meaningful side missions and challenges that enhance replayability.
- • Smooth traversal mechanics including gliding and stealth gameplay.
Cons
- • Batmobile segments are overused and sometimes feel repetitive.
- • Riddler challenges are numerous and can become tedious grind.
- • Story twists can be predictable for longtime fans.
- • Some side missions lack depth and feel like filler.
- • Optimization issues on PC at launch caused performance problems.
- • Minor bugs and occasional mission softlocks reported.
- • Pacing can be uneven due to extended Batmobile sequences.
Rating Criteria
Batman™: Arkham Knight brings the award-winning Arkham trilogy from Rocksteady Studios to its epic conclusion. Developed exclusively for New-Gen platforms, Batman: Arkham Knight introduces Rocksteady's uniquely designed version of the Batmobile.