What is the Best Arkham Game?
The Arkham series, developed by Rocksteady Studios and WB Games Montreal, is widely regarded as one of the best video game series of all time. The series is a culmination of cinematic storytelling, atmospheric tension, and epic action, all set within the iconic universe of Batman. But with three games in the series, it can be a daunting task to decide which one is the best. In this article, we’ll explore each game in the series and provide you with a definitive answer to the question: What is the best Arkham game?
Arkham Asylum (2009)
The Birth of the Arkham Series
Arkham Asylum, the first game in the series, set the stage for the subsequent titles. Developed by Rocksteady Studios, Arkham Asylum was a surprise hit, introducing gamers to a non-linear, action-packed experience that delved deep into the world of Batman. The game’s dark and gothic atmosphere, combined with its innovative combat mechanics and challenging puzzles, laid the foundation for the series.
- Notable Features:
- Introduces Batman’s Batgrapple system, allowing for seamless transitions between buildings and combat
- Innovative Stealth mechanics, including the ability to evade and disorient enemies
- High-quality voice acting, with a standout performance by Kevin Conroy as Batman
Arkham City (2011)
The Evolution of the Arkham Formula
Arkham City built upon the success of its predecessor, expanding the universe and introducing new mechanics. Set five years after the events of Arkham Asylum, the game takes place within the walled-off confines of a massive city. Arkham City’s improved combat mechanics, enhanced exploration, and added abilities (such as the Smoke Bomb) raised the bar for the series.
- Notable Features:
- Open-world exploration: Arkham City’s large, open environment offers a sense of freedom and discovery
- New enemies and bosses: Iconic DC villains, like the Penguin and the Riddler, face off against Batman
- Advanced combat: New combat takedowns, counters, and contextual attacks offer greater variety
Arkham Knight (2015)
The Swansong of the Arkham Series
Arkham Knight, developed by Rocksteady Studios and released on PS4, Xbox One, and PC, serves as the series’ final entry. Set two years after Arkham City, the game introduces the Arkham Knight, a powerful, AI-driven threat to the citizens of Gotham. With improved graphics, sound design, and storytelling, Arkham Knight brought the series full circle, tying up loose ends and providing a fitting conclusion.
- Notable Features:
- Batman: The Tumbler: A new, heavily armored version of the Batmobile, featuring increased speed and agility
- Seamless transitions: Fast travel, grappling, and wing-suiting create a more fluid, action-packed experience
- Emotional conclusion: A powerful, cinematic storyline, with a final showdown against the Arkham Knight
Comparison Table
| Game | Story | Combat | Exploration | Boss Battles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkham Asylum | 9/10 | 8/10 | 6/10 | 8/10 |
| Arkham City | 8/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Arkham Knight | 9/10 | 9.5/10 | 9/10 | 9.5/10 |
After analyzing the three games, we can confidently say that Arkham Knight is the best game in the series. With its refined gameplay mechanics, emotional conclusion, and immersive storyline, Arkham Knight cements the series’ reputation as one of the best game franchises ever.
That being said, Arkham Asylum and Arkham City are equally impressive, with their own strengths and notable features. Asylum introduced us to the Arkham formula, City expanded it, and Knight polished it to perfection. All three games are worth playing, offering something unique and engaging to the Batman gaming experience.
Ultimately, the answer to the question "What is the best Arkham game?" comes down to personal preference. Do you want to experience the series’ birth and learn the fundamental mechanics? Start with Arkham Asylum. Do you prefer the series at its peak, with improved exploration and combat? Go with Arkham City. Or do you want a game that refines the formula and ties up loose ends? End with Arkham Knight.