LEGO® Batman™ 3: Beyond Gotham
" Engaging action-adventure with extensive DC roster and humor but limited open-world freedom "
LEGO® Batman™ 3: Beyond Gotham Review
LEGO® Batman™ 3: Beyond Gotham is generally regarded as a solid addition to the LEGO game series, though it is considered the weakest installment compared to its predecessors. The game features a vast roster of DC characters and multiple planets to explore, showcasing the developers' love and respect for the DC universe, including bringing back original voice actors. Players appreciate the humor, engaging gameplay, and extensive content, with many dedicating significant hours to complete it fully.
However, the game’s open-world design using multiple lantern planets instead of a free-roam Gotham or Metropolis is a divisive choice. Some players find the mission selection and vehicle controls limiting, with invisible walls and mobility issues detracting from immersion. Bugs, including crashes and repetitive side quests, are present but generally not game-breaking. DLCs are praised for quality but considered optional unless aiming for full completion. Overall, it’s recommended for LEGO and DC fans but may feel stale or flawed to others.
Highlights
Players highly praise the extensive DC character roster and the inclusion of many lesser-known characters. The game’s humor and voice acting, especially with returning actors, add charm and personality.
The gameplay mechanics remain fun and action-packed, with varied missions and exploration of multiple unique planets. Graphics and sound design receive positive remarks, creating an enjoyable atmosphere. DLC content is also well-received for its faithful representation of the DC universe.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the lack of a free-roam Gotham or Metropolis, which many players missed from previous titles. The lantern planet hubs are seen as less immersive and sometimes frustrating due to poor map design and vehicle handling.
Players report numerous bugs, including crashes and invisible walls that hinder flight and movement. Some find the side quests repetitive and the overall story too focused on Lantern characters rather than Batman. The grind for 100% completion is considered long and tedious by some.
Pros
- • Extensive roster of DC characters, including many lesser-known heroes and villains.
- • Humorous dialogue and excellent voice acting enhance the game’s charm.
- • Engaging gameplay with varied missions and exploration across multiple planets.
- • High-quality graphics and sound design create an immersive experience.
- • DLC content is faithful to the DC universe and adds valuable content.
- • Developers’ evident passion for DC comics shines through the game.
- • Long playtime with many hours of content and achievements to unlock.
Cons
- • Lack of free-roam Gotham or Metropolis reduces immersion for Batman fans.
- • Lantern planet hubs feel less engaging and have poor map design.
- • Vehicle controls are uncomfortable and limit mobility in open areas.
- • Invisible walls block flight and exploration, causing player frustration.
- • Repetitive side quests and grindy 100% completion detract from fun.
- • Story focuses heavily on Lanterns, sidelining Batman’s central role.
- • Bugs and crashes occur, affecting gameplay stability for some players.
Rating Criteria
The Caped Crusader joins forces with the super heroes of the DC Comics universe and blasts off to outer space to stop the evil Brainiac from destroying Earth.