What Order to Play Batman Arkham Games: A Journey Through Gotham's Shadows and Beyond

The Batman Arkham series has become a cornerstone of modern gaming, offering players an immersive experience into the dark and gritty world of Gotham City. With multiple titles released over the years, newcomers often find themselves asking, “What order should I play the Batman Arkham games?” This question is not just about chronology but also about understanding the narrative depth, gameplay evolution, and the emotional journey that each game offers. Let’s dive into the recommended order and explore the nuances that make each game a masterpiece.

1. Batman: Arkham Origins (2013)

• Why Start Here? Although Arkham Origins was released after Arkham Asylum and Arkham City, it serves as a prequel to the entire series. Set on Christmas Eve, this game introduces a younger, less experienced Batman who is still learning the ropes of being Gotham’s protector. The story revolves around a bounty placed on Batman’s head by Black Mask, leading to a night of chaos and confrontation with some of Gotham’s most notorious villains.
• Gameplay and Atmosphere: Arkham Origins retains the core gameplay mechanics of its predecessors but introduces new elements like the “Crime Scene Investigation” mode, which adds a layer of detective work to the game. The winter setting provides a unique atmosphere, with snow-covered streets and a sense of isolation that contrasts with the more crowded and chaotic Gotham of later games.
• Character Development: This game is crucial for understanding Batman’s early relationships with characters like Alfred, Commissioner Gordon, and even the Joker. It sets the stage for the events that unfold in the subsequent games.

2. Batman: Arkham Asylum (2009)

• The Beginning of the Arkham Saga: Arkham Asylum is where it all began. This game takes place entirely within the confines of the infamous Arkham Asylum, where Batman must confront the Joker and his henchmen after they take over the facility. The game is a masterclass in atmosphere, with its dark, claustrophobic environments and psychological tension.
• Gameplay Innovation: Arkham Asylum introduced the “Freeflow Combat” system, which became a hallmark of the series. The game also emphasized stealth and puzzle-solving, creating a balanced experience that appealed to both action and strategy fans.
• Narrative Depth: The story delves into Batman’s psyche, exploring his fears and vulnerabilities. The relationship between Batman and the Joker is central to the narrative, setting up the dynamic that will be further explored in later games.

3. Batman: Arkham City (2011)

• Expanding the World: Arkham City takes the action outside the walls of Arkham Asylum and into a sprawling section of Gotham City that has been converted into a massive prison. This game expands on the open-world elements introduced in Arkham Asylum, allowing players to explore a larger, more dynamic environment.
• Complex Storyline: The plot is more intricate, with multiple villains vying for control of Arkham City. Batman must navigate this dangerous landscape while uncovering a conspiracy that threatens the entire city. The game also introduces new characters like Hugo Strange and Catwoman, adding layers to the narrative.
• Enhanced Gameplay: Arkham City refines the combat and stealth mechanics, offering more variety and depth. The introduction of gadgets and upgrades allows for more creative approaches to both combat and exploration.

4. Batman: Arkham Knight (2015)

• The Epic Conclusion: Arkham Knight serves as the final chapter in the Arkham series, bringing the story to a dramatic and emotional conclusion. The game introduces the mysterious Arkham Knight, a new villain with a personal vendetta against Batman. The stakes are higher than ever, with Gotham City under siege by Scarecrow and his army.
• Technological Advancements: Arkham Knight pushes the boundaries of what the series can achieve, with stunning graphics, a fully realized open-world Gotham, and the introduction of the Batmobile. The game’s scale and ambition are unmatched, offering players a truly cinematic experience.
• Emotional Resonance: The narrative explores themes of loss, redemption, and the burden of being Batman. The relationships between Batman and his allies, as well as his enemies, are tested in ways that bring the series full circle.

5. Batman: Arkham VR (2016)

• A Different Perspective: While not a traditional entry in the series, Arkham VR offers a unique experience by placing players directly in the shoes of Batman through virtual reality. The game focuses on detective work and puzzle-solving, providing a more intimate and immersive look at the world of Gotham.
• Narrative Connection: Arkham VR is set between Arkham City and Arkham Knight, offering insights into Batman’s investigation of a mysterious crime. It serves as a bridge between the two mainline games, adding depth to the overall story.

6. Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate (2013)

• A Side Story: Arkham Origins Blackgate is a handheld companion to Arkham Origins, set three months after the events of the main game. It follows Batman as he investigates a riot at Blackgate Prison, uncovering a plot that ties back to the events of Arkham Origins.
• Gameplay Style: The game adopts a 2.5D perspective, blending side-scrolling action with the exploration and combat mechanics of the main series. While not as expansive as the other games, it offers a different take on the Arkham formula.

7. Batman: Arkham Underworld (2016)

• A Mobile Experience: Arkham Underworld is a mobile game that shifts the focus from Batman to the villains of Gotham. Players take on the role of a crime lord, building their own criminal empire and recruiting iconic villains like the Riddler and Harley Quinn.
• Narrative Role: While not directly tied to the main series, Arkham Underworld provides a different perspective on the world of Gotham, showcasing the power struggles and alliances among its villains.

Conclusion: The Order That Matters

Playing the Batman Arkham games in the order of Arkham Origins, Arkham Asylum, Arkham City, Arkham Knight, and then exploring the spin-offs like Arkham VR and Arkham Origins Blackgate offers a comprehensive journey through Batman’s evolution as a character and the ever-expanding world of Gotham City. Each game builds upon the last, creating a cohesive narrative that is both emotionally resonant and gameplay-rich.

Related Q&A:

• Q: Can I skip Arkham Origins and start with Arkham Asylum?

  • A: While you can start with Arkham Asylum, playing Arkham Origins first provides valuable context for Batman’s early career and relationships, enhancing the overall experience.

• Q: Is Arkham VR necessary to understand the main story?

  • A: Arkham VR is not essential to the main storyline but offers a unique perspective and additional context that enriches the narrative.

• Q: How does Arkham Knight tie up the series?

  • A: Arkham Knight serves as the culmination of the series, resolving key plotlines and character arcs while delivering a satisfying conclusion to Batman’s journey.

• Q: Are the spin-offs worth playing?

  • A: The spin-offs like Arkham Origins Blackgate and Arkham Underworld offer different gameplay experiences and additional lore, making them worthwhile for fans who want to explore every corner of the Arkham universe.