Reader Review: Batman: Arkham Asylum

Do you have what it takes to get a review published right here on Kotaku? Jared does, as he struggles to cope with the murder of his parents.

Yes, that’s right, we’re now publishing reader reviews here on Kotaku. This is your chance to deliver sensible game purchasing advice to the rest of the Kotaku community.

And thanks to the very kind chaps at Madman Entertainment, purveyor of all kinds of cool, indie and esoteric film, the best reader review we publish each month will win a prize pack containing ten of the latest Madman DVD releases.

This review was submitted by Jared Araniego. If you’ve played Batman, or just want to ask Jared more about it, leave your thoughts in the comments below.

Batman: Arkham Asylum (360, PS3, PC)

The Dark Knight himself, makes his next gen debut with the much anticipated Batman: Arkham Asylum. Can Rocksteady Studios elevate the game to classic status? Or is the Bat’s back broken by the allure of milking the franchise for all it’s worth?

Loved

Combat System: Three words: simple, effective, stylish. Whether you’re rushing headfirst into an angry mob, or stealthily sitting atop one of the many stone gargoyles, picking off generic henchmen one by one, there is never a case of being overwhelmed by too many options. Pick your plan of attack, and go to town. Batman has an array of punches, kicks and elbows to the noggins which both serve not only to kick some serious arse, but also to add some razzle dazzle, and it works a treat.

Atmosphere: The harrowing corridors of the famed Arkham Asylum make for a great setting. Violent taunts, traumatic flashbacks and iconic villains are all part of the repertoire which makes up the disturbing aura that fills the air. The scenarios Batman finds himself in constantly echo the dark themes that have infused the franchise.

Hated

Scarecrow Stealth Sections: These sections force the player to avoid the villain’s gaze through the use of the environment. If seen by the Scarecrow, it results in an instant death, a loading screen ensues, and you’re back to the start. Rinse and repeat. It quickly becomes tiresome to play a platformer stealth-esque game, where you are forced to repeat sections over and over again.

Hardly a foot is put wrong in Batman: Arkham Asylum. The ultimate respect is evident within the game, as anything and everything that makes the Dark Knight so enjoyable, is represented with poise. A gaming experience not to be missed.

Reviewed by: Jared Araniego

You can have your Reader Review published on Kotaku. Send your review to us at the usual address. Make sure it’s written in the same format as above and in under 300 words – yes, we’ve upped the word limit. We’ll publish the best ones we get and the best of the month will win a Madman DVD prize pack.

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