LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham

LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham, developed by TT Games and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, launched on the PlayStation 4 (PS4) in 2014, taking the beloved brick-built superhero action to a cosmic scale. Building on the successful foundation of its predecessors, this action-adventure platformer expanded the universe far beyond Gotham, bringing in a massive roster of DC Super Heroes and villains for an intergalactic showdown. This LEGO Batman 3 PS4 review explores its ambitious scope and signature humor.

Gameplay: Cosmic Exploration and Character Variety

At its core, LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham retains the familiar and engaging LEGO gameplay loop: smash objects, collect studs, build new contraptions, and solve light puzzles. The PS4 version benefits from smooth performance and vibrant visuals, making the brick-breaking action feel satisfying.

The game’s major innovation is its expanded scope. Players journey through iconic locations like the Batcave, the Hall of Justice, and, most notably, various Lantern Worlds, each with unique environments and challenges. The roster of playable characters is immense, featuring over 150 DC Comics heroes and villains, from obscure fan favorites to the entire Justice League. Each character possesses unique abilities crucial for progression, encouraging constant character swapping and exploration. The full voice acting, introduced in the previous game, returns, adding humor and personality to every interaction. The seamless drop-in/drop-out local co-op remains a highlight, making it a perfect family-friendly experience.

• Massive roster of over 150 playable DC characters
• Exploration of diverse Lantern Worlds and iconic DC locations
• Classic LEGO smashing, building, and puzzle-solving
• Full voice acting for all characters
• Seamless 2-player local co-op multiplayer

Story and Setting: Brainiac’s Galactic Threat

The narrative of LEGO Batman 3 sees the villainous Brainiac attempting to shrink Earth and add it to his collection of miniature planets. To combat this cosmic threat, Batman and the Justice League must team up with their greatest foes, including Lex Luthor and The Joker, in an unlikely alliance.

The story is packed with the signature slapstick humor and witty dialogue that TT Games is known for, providing plenty of laughs for both kids and adults. The plot takes players on an epic journey across the galaxy, from the Watchtower to the various Lantern homeworlds, offering a fresh and expansive setting for the LEGO universe.

Graphics and Sound: A Vibrant Cosmic Adventure

On the PlayStation 4, LEGO Batman 3 presents a vibrant and colorful brick-built universe. The character models are detailed, and the environments, particularly the diverse Lantern Worlds, are visually distinct and imaginative. The game runs smoothly, with impressive visual effects for superpowers and environmental destruction.

The sound design is excellent, featuring an energetic orchestral score that complements the action and a fantastic voice cast, including many returning actors from previous LEGO Batman games and DC animated properties. The humorous dialogue and satisfying sound effects contribute greatly to the game’s charm.

Replayability and Content: A Galaxy of Collectibles

LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham offers a staggering amount of replayability. Beyond the main story campaign, players can revisit levels in Free Play mode to uncover hidden areas and collect every Minikit, Red Brick, and character token using their expanded roster. The various hub areas, including the Batcave, Hall of Justice, and the Lantern Worlds, are packed with side quests and challenges, ensuring dozens of hours of content for completionists.

Is LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham on PS4 Worth Playing Today?

Absolutely. LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham on PS4 remains a fantastic action-adventure game, especially for fans of LEGO games and DC Comics. Its expansive roster, cosmic setting, and signature humor make it a highly enjoyable and replayable experience. It’s a shining example of how the LEGO game formula can evolve and expand, offering endless fun for players of all ages on the PlayStation 4.