Batman's No Longer At Home Washing His Tights

It seems to be old news already. And if it isn't yet, please rectify that and purchase Batman: Arkham Asylum immediately. If all the hyperbole from other sites hasn't persuaded you yet, I doubt you've read anything about this game.

The first things you notice as you saunter through the asylum are the beautiful environment, the varied animations (the guards have different swaggers!), and the on-point voice acting. I'll admit most of my comics knowledge comes from their cartoons. So it was fantastic to hear Batman, the Joker, and Harley Quinn reprising their animated series roles.

Then you are thrown amongst the convicts and experiencing the fluidity of Batman's near-superhuman combat prowess. It didn't surprise me to find it started as a rhythm-action game instead. The flow of the combat translates well into the predator sections where you can use a form of quick stealth to knock out baddies using Batman's signature tricks of his unique trade (my favorites being sonic batarangs and ledge takedowns). The possibilities make for some fun mistakes...usually involving explosive gel.

Take away Batman from this game, and it is still amazing. Who would've thought a game based on such a well-known super hero would ever be considered for game of the year, because it will be. And if you'd like to hear a more encompassing discussion, I highly recommend the latest episode of Out of the Game with Shawn Elliot, Jeff Green, Robert Ashley, and N'Gai Croal. However, I actually think collecting all of the Riddler trophies was worth it for more than the achievement.

-- "Where does he get those wonderful toys?"