Batman: Arkham Origins Review

Batman: Arkham Origins, developed by Warner Bros. Games Montréal and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, is an action-adventure game set in the early years of Batman’s career. Released in 2013 for the PlayStation 3, this game serves as a prequel to the critically acclaimed Batman: Arkham Asylum and Arkham City. This Batman: Arkham Origins PS3 review takes a closer look at what this installment offers.

Gameplay: Becoming the Bat

Batman: Arkham Origins on the PS3 refines the established Arkham gameplay formula, focusing on a younger, less experienced Batman. Players navigate an expanded open-world Gotham City, grappling across rooftops, gliding through the night, and engaging in intense combat with a variety of criminals.

The game introduces new gadgets and combat moves, allowing for more diverse approaches to encounters. The FreeFlow combat system remains a core element, emphasizing timing and chaining attacks to create fluid and dynamic fight sequences. Detective Mode returns, enabling Batman to analyze crime scenes and solve intricate puzzles.

• Expanded open-world Gotham City to explore
• Refined FreeFlow combat system with new moves
• New gadgets to aid in combat and exploration
• Detective Mode for forensic investigations
• Challenging boss battles against iconic villains

Story: A City in Crisis

Batman: Arkham Origins tells a compelling prequel story set on Christmas Eve. A bounty is placed on Batman’s head by Black Mask, attracting a deadly group of assassins to Gotham City. As Batman confronts these dangerous foes, he also grapples with his own inner demons and the early stages of his crusade against crime.

The narrative explores Batman’s relationships with key characters, including his first encounter with the Joker. The story provides valuable insights into the evolution of the Dark Knight and the origins of some of his most iconic adversaries.

Graphics and Sound: A Darker Gotham

Batman: Arkham Origins on the PS3 delivers a visually impressive experience, capturing the dark and gritty atmosphere of Gotham City. The game features detailed environments, realistic character models, and stunning visual effects. The snow-covered cityscape adds a unique and atmospheric touch.

The sound design is equally effective, with immersive ambient sounds, powerful voice acting, and a memorable musical score. The iconic voice of Kevin Conroy as Batman adds to the game’s authenticity and appeal.

Open World: Gotham City Under Siege

Batman: Arkham Origins‘ open-world Gotham City is larger and more expansive than previous Arkham games. Players can explore various districts, each with its own unique look and feel. The city is filled with criminal activity, side missions, and collectibles, providing ample opportunities for exploration and gameplay.

The Batwing serves as a fast travel system, allowing players to quickly traverse the city. While the open world is engaging, some critics noted that it felt less dense and less integral to the main story compared to Arkham City’s open world.

Reception

Batman: Arkham Origins received generally positive reviews upon release. Critics praised its engaging story, refined gameplay, and impressive visuals. While some considered it less innovative than its predecessors, it was still considered a strong entry in the Arkham series.

Is Batman: Arkham Origins on PS3 Worth Playing?

Yes, Batman: Arkham Origins on PS3 is worth playing, especially for fans of the Arkham series and Batman enthusiasts. It offers a compelling prequel story, refined gameplay mechanics, and a darker take on Gotham City. While it may not reach the heights of Arkham Asylum or Arkham City, it provides a solid and enjoyable superhero gaming experience on the PlayStation 3.