In What Order Should I Play the Arkham Games? A Comprehensive Guide
The Batman: Arkham series is a beloved collection of action-adventure games that has redefined superhero gaming. With a compelling storyline, intricate combat, and immersive world-building, it’s easy to see why so many fans want to experience it. But the order in which to play these games can be confusing, especially with prequels and DLCs thrown into the mix. So, in what order should you play the Arkham games?
The Ideal Order: Story Over Release
For the most rewarding and coherent experience, it’s best to play the Arkham games in chronological story order, which is different from their release date order. This allows the narrative to unfold as it was intended, without spoiling events from later games. Here’s the order we recommend:
- Batman: Arkham Origins
- Batman: Arkham Asylum
- Batman: Arkham City
- Batman: Arkham Knight
While Arkham VR is included in the series, it acts more as a side story and can be played at any point. However, if following story order strictly, play it after Arkham City.
This order isn’t just about experiencing the story; it also aligns with the evolution of Batman’s character and the gameplay mechanics. Starting with Origins sets the stage for his growth and the relationships that are crucial in later games.
Diving Deeper: Why This Order?
The Narrative Arc
- Arkham Origins acts as a prequel, establishing Batman’s early career and introduces several villains who play significant roles in subsequent entries. It also dives into Batman’s earlier encounters with the Joker, which becomes a core theme in the entire series.
- Arkham Asylum picks up the timeline with Batman facing off against the Joker in Arkham’s iconic island. This is where we witness how Batman interacts with the different inmates, and it builds upon the initial relationships shown in Origins.
- Arkham City is a direct sequel to Asylum, increasing the scale of the world and broadening the scope of Batman’s challenges. The city itself becomes a dangerous place and we see the consequences of actions from the previous game.
- Arkham Knight concludes the main story arc, bringing the plot to a thrilling climax. It brings in all the experience from the past games and shows the repercussions of the previous entries. It also addresses long-running storylines introduced in previous titles.
Understanding the Gameplay
Starting with Origins allows you to appreciate the gradual refinement of combat mechanics and gadget usage that Rocksteady Studios (except for Origins, developed by WB Games Montréal) brought to the series. Each game builds upon the last, adding new elements while keeping the core of the gameplay consistent. By playing in order, you’ll familiarize yourself with the gameplay as it evolves.
The DLC Order
If you’re interested in experiencing the DLC in a chronological order, integrate the following into the main sequence:
- Batman: Arkham Origins
- A Cold, Cold Heart (DLC)
- Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate
- Batman: Arkham Knight
- A Matter of Family (DLC)
- Batman: Arkham Asylum
- Batman: Arkham City
- Catwoman DLC
- Harley Quinn’s Revenge (DLC)
- Arkham VR
Integrating the DLCs into the game experience in this way will provide a richer and fuller experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to help you better understand the Arkham series and their play order:
1. Do I have to play Arkham Origins?
No, you don’t strictly need to play Arkham Origins to understand the other games, but it certainly enhances your appreciation of the characters and overarching story. It’s a great game in its own right and provides valuable backstory, especially concerning Batman’s relationship with the Joker.
2. What about Return to Arkham?
Return to Arkham is a remastered compilation of Arkham Asylum and Arkham City. These remasters are an excellent way to play those two games, but it does not affect the overall play order. If you have the option, they offer enhanced visuals.
3. Can I skip straight to Arkham Knight?
It is not recommended. While it’s technically possible, you’ll miss out on crucial story elements and character developments. It’s better to play at least Asylum and City before diving into Knight.
4. What is the release order of the Arkham games?
The release order is:
- Batman: Arkham Asylum (2009)
- Batman: Arkham City (2011)
- Batman: Arkham Origins (2013)
- Batman: Arkham Knight (2015)
- Batman: Arkham VR (2016)
5. What’s the deal with Arkham Origins Blackgate?
Arkham Origins Blackgate is a 2.5D Metroidvania game set after the events of Origins on a handheld device. It is a side story that is not critical to the main story, but it can fill in additional details for fans.
6. Is Gotham Knights part of the Arkham series?
No. Gotham Knights is an entirely new story set in the DC universe, not directly connected to the Arkham games’ timeline.
7. Is the Arkham series finished?
Yes, Batman: Arkham Knight is the final main title in the Arkham series from Rocksteady. Although, WB Games Montreal developed Arkham Origins, it is considered part of the same Arkham verse.
8. Do I need to play Arkham City before Arkham Knight?
Yes, absolutely. Arkham City is essential to understand the plot of Arkham Knight. Many of Knight’s events are set up and built upon from story points in City.
9. Which game in the series is the best?
“Best” is subjective, but many fans and critics consider Arkham Knight to be the pinnacle of gameplay mechanics and combat. However, Arkham Asylum is often praised for its narrative and setting, while Arkham City is celebrated for its open-world exploration. Each game has its strong points.
10. Is Joker alive in Gotham Knights?
No, in the Gotham Knights universe, the Joker is dead. He was killed by Batman, setting up a major plot point for the game.
11. What’s the deal with the Arkham VR?
Arkham VR is a short, immersive experience, offering a different perspective within the Arkham universe. While it does touch upon some story elements, it is not vital for the overall series. It is best experienced after Arkham City.
12. Is it okay to skip Arkham Asylum?
It’s not recommended. Arkham Asylum lays the groundwork for the series. While you could skip it, you’d be missing a lot of the story and character establishment. It’s a great game and worth playing.
13. Why did Gotham Knights get mediocre reviews?
Gotham Knights received criticism for its gameplay, performance issues, and lack of polish. Many felt it didn’t live up to the standards set by the Arkham series.
14. Are the Arkham games connected?
Yes, each of the main games is interconnected. They all form one continuous story over time.
15. How long does it take to play all the Arkham games?
Playing through all the main games and their DLCs can take anywhere from 80 to 120 hours depending on your play style and completionist tendencies.
Conclusion
Playing the Batman Arkham series in the right order can significantly enhance your overall experience. By following the chronological order—Arkham Origins, Arkham Asylum, Arkham City, and Arkham Knight—you’ll witness the evolution of Batman’s story and combat capabilities. While you can technically play them in any order, playing them chronologically allows the story to unfold as intended. So, gear up, embrace the shadows, and dive into the rich and thrilling world of the Arkham games.