I have been chipping away at Batman: Arkham Asylum. It doesn’t help that there are about 20 other games I want to be playing, but Batman is extremely compelling.
Batman is a detective. Using this mechanic it slows the pace of the game down a little and allows you to really soak in everything about Arkham Asylum. Making this a smaller more manageable space, than let’s say a GTA4, really gets you familiar with the entire layout of the complex. I am fairly confident that I can cruise from one area of the game to the other with extreme ease and speed, much like Batman. The detective mode also lends itself to familiar gameplay in Metroid Prime. Scanning things, finding ways to get out of situations, exits, gargoyles and finding Riddler clues is really fun. These supply more longevity to the game, especially for completionists. It’s extremely awesome.
Voice work. The original cast from the animated series signed on to do the voices and the nostalgic value keeps me listening for more. Joker, Batman, Commissioner Gordon, Harley and Riddler already have a vocal attachment to me, and when the interview tapes play, it is like having these nuggets from the television show at your disposal. Also, Joker is constantly on the PA making fun of you or lecturing his cronies.
Weapons and upgrades. You gain a lot of weapons to help you in Arkham and all of them are fun to use. Using your XP to purchase other weapons, or fun Batman-like toys is also interesting. I played with the remote controlled Baterang for like 40 minutes. Also, whenever Batman uses the explosive gel he draws a bat on the wall/floor. It’s obvious that this guy has issues, but really, I can’t believe they are taking it this far. Batman dreams, lives, breathes bats all the time. I can get into this.
I haven’t messed with the challenge rooms or passed the game yet. I am still taking this game as a slow burn, but please be patient with me. It is a perfect shit storm out there right now, AND NEW SUPER MARIO BROTHERS WII COMES OUT ON SUNDAY.
Shit.
