The Definitive Action-Adventure: ‘Batman: Arkham City’ (Xbox 360)
In 2011, ‘Batman: Arkham City’ for the Xbox 360 stormed the gaming community. The action-adventure title from Rocksteady Studios takes everything that made ‘Batman: Arkham Asylum’ a hit and expands it drastically. ‘Batman: Arkham City’ tells a story that captures the essence of the classic Batman comic books while providing improved combat, more gadgets, a bigger city, and a more ambitious narrative.
The Story and Setting
‘Arkham City’ is set in a vast prison city, created by the corrupt mayor of Gotham to contain the criminal population. Batman must investigate the mysterious rights violations occurring in the city, while combating the countless and dangerous inhabitants including Two-Face, Catwoman, and a brand new villain – Hugo Strange. The game features both indoor and outdoor exploration, in which players are able to traverse the city using the grappling hook and glide mechanics that Batman fans have come to love.
Combat and Stealth Mechanics
Fighting off enemies has never felt as satisfying as it does in ‘Batman: Arkham City’. The combat system is based on the patented ‘Freeflow Combat’ which is a combination of offensive attacks, counters, and evasion. This allows for dynamic combat with multiple enemies as opposed to the traditional ‘Fire and Forget’ system of hitting one button and hoping for the best.
In addition to the improved combat system, the stealth mechanics are given an overhaul. Lunging between gargoyles, crouching in vents, and hunting down unsuspecting thugs from perches are just a few of the tactics you can use to stay in the shadows.
Collectibles and Upgrade System
Sneaking around ‘Arkham City’ is not all Batman has to do. As expected with any game of this scale, there are dozens of side quests and collectible riddles. These range from finding evidence to stopping dead drops and taking down assassin’s. The completion of these tasks will grant Batman access to powerful upgrades like specialized suits and abilities.
Graphics and Audio
The visuals of ‘Arkham City’ are nothing damn of breathtaking. The characters are extremely believable and the environments are incredibly well realized. Character models look detailed and the lighting effects are simply stunning. The audio is also top notch, featuring dynamic soundscapes, realistic sound effects and excellent voice acting.
The Verdict
Rocksteady Studios has absolutely earned its good will with the ‘Batman: Arkham’ series of games. ‘Batman: Arkham City’ is a thrilling and immersive action adventure game that will keep gamers of all ages glued to their Xbox 360 for hours on end. The story, combat, graphics, audio, and replay value are all welcomed additions that make ‘Batman: Arkham City’ a definite must-have for any Batman fan.
FAQs
Q: What is the setting for ‘Batman: Arkham City’?
A: ‘Batman: Arkham City’ is set in a vast prison city created by corrupt mayor of Gotham to contain its criminal population.
Q: What type of combat system is featured in ‘Batman: Arkham City’?
A: ‘Arkham City’ features a patented ‘Freeflow Combat’ system, which combines offensive attacks, counters, and evasions for a dynamic combat experience.
Q: What kind of upgrades can players expect in ‘Batman: Arkham City’?
A: Completion of side quests and collectibles in ‘Arkham City’ will grant access to powerful upgrades such as specialized suits and abilities.
Q: How good are the visuals in ‘Batman: Arkham City’?
A: ‘Arkham City’ features stunning visuals with detailed character models and incredible lighting effects.
Q: What can players expect from the audio of ‘Batman: Arkham City’?
A: ‘Arkham City’ features dynamic soundscapes, realistic sound effects and excellent voice acting.
