Batman: Arkham Asylum

 PlayStation 3
User Score
8.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1850 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,659 out of 1850
  2. Mixed: 150 out of 1850
  3. Negative: 41 out of 1850
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  1. Topoide
    Feb 18, 2022
    10
    Jugabilidad, historia y gráficos perfectos.
    De los mejores juegos de super héroes.
  2. Faknord90
    Apr 7, 2021
    10
    Just got into the batman games. Wow what have I been missing out. Combat, story and levels are just soo good.
  3. Ray6701
    Sep 3, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Awesome action and fun to play as batman and do cool graphics and everything… Expand
  4. BatmanTheNr1
    Oct 3, 2021
    10
    my first ps3 game ooooooh the memories it's a f................ masterpiece
  5. cchenders40
    Oct 18, 2022
    10
    There isn't much that I can say about this game that hasn't been said. It is a (flawed) masterpiece. The story is great, Joker is peak here (maybe the best representation of him outside of comics), the combat is fun, and the setting of Arkham Asylum is just too fun!

    My only two complaints about this game is the lack of enemy variety and backtracking. I played this game for the first    There isn't much that I can say about this game that hasn't been said. It is a (flawed) masterpiece. The story is great, Joker is peak here (maybe the best representation of him outside of comics), the combat is fun, and the setting of Arkham Asylum is just too fun!

    My only two complaints about this game is the lack of enemy variety and backtracking. I played this game for the first time in 2022, and it holds up, but the enemy variety severely lacks, and the devs try to make up for it by just adding more enemies to encounters to up the difficulty. It does not make encounters more difficult it just makes late game fights and frustrating battle of health management. Back tracking is also a big problem. You will re-clear and go through each area 2-3 times in the game. It just isn't interesting. I'm sure there were technical limitations or limitations in how big the asylum could be in the logic of the story and world, it just didn't feel good.

    One of my biggest praises for this game is the art direction. In 2022, the graphics obviously aren't amazing, but that is okay because the art style down to the architecture of the buildings makes this game beautiful even today. Art style will always be greater than graphics and frame rate.

    My last big praise is the voice acting. Dear gosh, give Mark Hamill and Oscar for Joker in this game. Also, Kevin Conroy literally voices Batman for this game, it is just too perfect. From the moment I heard Hamill's psychotic monologue in the opening scene I knew I was in for a truly amazing Batman/Joker dynamic that actually gets their relationship. What a game!    … Expand
  6. Ez1459
    May 6, 2023
    10
    my first ps3 game, I will never forget that day I first put the cd in my brand new ps3. city does improve on this game in many ways but this game hit me differently
  7. atyoukha
    Aug 12, 2022
    10
    What a game. It was fun, well paced, and always an adventure. I could not get enough.
  8. AmzingSkull
    Aug 11, 2023
    10
    The perfect start to the franchise of arkham games. To start of with is the combat which is perfect you can feel how impactful all of the moves are, even when you fly 30 meters from one guy to next the “free flow” combat is very satisfying. The graphics for a nearly 14 year old game still holds up, when you first get a shot over the whole Arkham island the gothic, dark atmosphere is madeThe perfect start to the franchise of arkham games. To start of with is the combat which is perfect you can feel how impactful all of the moves are, even when you fly 30 meters from one guy to next the “free flow” combat is very satisfying. The graphics for a nearly 14 year old game still holds up, when you first get a shot over the whole Arkham island the gothic, dark atmosphere is made perfectly in this game and really makes you feel like Batman. Story is intense and it’s really Batman versus a whole island infested with prison inmates and villains. The villains in the game are introduced over the course of the game and it really feels like everyone’s after you, so you have an uneasy feeling traversing the different buildings not knowing what’s waiting, Especially with the lunatics they freak me out. 100% this game recently and can’t recommend it enough.… Expand
  9. DanielleG
    Jan 7, 2010
    9
    One of the best games of the year. Despite being Batman, the game's appeal isn't limited to only fans of the comic - and for those who are, actually delivers. Arkham actually mixes both of the gameplay parts together awsomely: The stealth is fun and doesn't get repetitive, and beating up thugs is involving (and you won't find you berating yourself for only doing it in One of the best games of the year. Despite being Batman, the game's appeal isn't limited to only fans of the comic - and for those who are, actually delivers. Arkham actually mixes both of the gameplay parts together awsomely: The stealth is fun and doesn't get repetitive, and beating up thugs is involving (and you won't find you berating yourself for only doing it in the instance that you mess up stealth in this game) and the puzzles by the Riddler are fun though relatively easy. With the exception of the sometimes corny lines and easy boss battles, the game is A+… Expand
  10. LukeH
    Sep 21, 2009
    9
    As far as licensed games go this is definitely in a league of its own. I must admit, before the games release I was surprised at the attention it was getting and from looking at screens and reading previews I could not really understand it. I played the demo and was impressed but not blown away. I still picked it up because I have a fair wait until Forza 3 and GT5 hit later this year. As far as licensed games go this is definitely in a league of its own. I must admit, before the games release I was surprised at the attention it was getting and from looking at screens and reading previews I could not really understand it. I played the demo and was impressed but not blown away. I still picked it up because I have a fair wait until Forza 3 and GT5 hit later this year. After playing for a while I was hooked and enjoyed everything about it. The story, graphics and voice acting are all top notch and the game pays all the batman fans (I am not one) some service by having back stories and mentioning some villains from past comics etc. Picking up the interview tapes that are scattered around Arkham Island also provides some interesting bit of information. It is these tapes that create the 'Bioshock feel' that many reviewers have mentioned. At least thats what I think. Either way, whethere you are a Batman fan or not I would definitely give it a look.If you are looking for non-stop action then maybe rent it first. There is not a fight around every corner but I feel that that is one of the games strong points. The pacing is excellent with puzzle and stealth sections thrown into the mix. There is always challenge mode for full on fighting too. Anyways, thats enough from me. Check it out.… Expand
  11. Brandon
    Aug 27, 2009
    9
    This was the summer of great superhero games, Wolverine may have started it & the Dark Knight not only finished it but also became the new gold standard, not only was this the best batman game ever but it now holds the title of the best licensed superhero game ever. & as a huge Batman fan for years I've been waiting for a Batman game that gives the Caped Crusader his due and Batman: This was the summer of great superhero games, Wolverine may have started it & the Dark Knight not only finished it but also became the new gold standard, not only was this the best batman game ever but it now holds the title of the best licensed superhero game ever. & as a huge Batman fan for years I've been waiting for a Batman game that gives the Caped Crusader his due and Batman: Arkham Asylum did exactly that & more. The moment after I picked up my reserved copy of the Collectors Ed (in which I paid for months ago) from gamestop @ the midnight release I never put the game down until after I finished the story mode & solved every 1 of the riddlers riddles & I feel as if i've just played 1 of the best told stories in a videogame of all time. The story written by Paul Dini (from Batman: TAS) was phenomenal & the casting of Kevin Conroy & Mark Hamill as the Batman & Joker was equivalent to inhaling in a breath of fresh air on a hot day (it just feels right), the visuals are stunning, and the assassins creed style of fighting can only be described as poetry in friggin motion. The exclusive ps3 content of the Joker & extra dlc makes this games replayability even better & there is absolutely no reason why this game shouldn't be a sure contender for game of the year and I can't wait for the sequel that the ending kinda hinted torwards. & you know what, since batman has finally been put in a game that gives him the justice he so rightfullly deserves 1 could only hope that rocksteady, eidos, and another great writer from the dc universe team up again 2 help reedem Superman's image on console systems as well because his old games used 2 suck 2.… Expand
  12. rolls20s
    Aug 31, 2009
    9
    Excellent game. Very immersive. Scarecrow FTW. The fighting mechanic is great fun as long you work the combos and use the upgrades. Surprising level of control given a 3rd-person POV. Length is a bit short, but I think that if it ran any longer, it would become repetitive - many games go on way longer than they should. Can't wait for a sequel.
  13. YammoYammamoto
    Sep 30, 2009
    9
    I'm not a huge Batman fan... The fighting in Batman reminds me of the Matrix... Hoards of henchmen flying every which way, and Batman standing tall in the centre. How can one not love that? Why a 9? + Amazingly streamlined game-play + Amazingly short loading times + Frequent checkpoints + Amazingly short re-load times + Stunningly easy controls, but loads of character actions + Voice I'm not a huge Batman fan... The fighting in Batman reminds me of the Matrix... Hoards of henchmen flying every which way, and Batman standing tall in the centre. How can one not love that? Why a 9? + Amazingly streamlined game-play + Amazingly short loading times + Frequent checkpoints + Amazingly short re-load times + Stunningly easy controls, but loads of character actions + Voice acting is near perfect + Dialogue is very good Why not a 10? - Investigation mode should have had a timer + cooldown (It is a mode that lets you see breakable walls, scan and see humans through walls. As is, one uses it almost all the time.) - The use of Gargoyles seemed a bit cheesy to me - Sometimes you feel how linear the story is, (Note: MOST of the time it feels like are going where YOU want to go though...) All-in-all, an AMAZING work by "Rocksteady Studios". My hat is off to you, Sirs.… Expand
  14. StewartH.
    Oct 12, 2009
    9
    One of the best games I have played since Fallout 3 and Fable 2 last year. Very similar in style to Bioshock but the quality throughout the game is faultless. The only reason I haven't given it a full 10 marks is the lack of multiplayer action.
  15. TyeS
    Dec 4, 2009
    9
    Do superhero games almost always suck? Yes. Has there ever been a good Batman game? No. Those were two things i knew for certain as a well played gamer. That was until Rocksteady came along with Batman: Dark Asylum. With atmosphere to rival Bioshock and an intuitive combat system, this true to the source Batman experience made me a believer.
  16. Dr.Ghettoblaster
    Aug 25, 2009
    9
    This game is crafted and polished to near perfection. One of the most impressive games I've played this generation hands down. Believe the "hype", it's based on fact. Fantastic experience.
  17. JP
    Dec 18, 2009
    9
    this game is great and probalby one of the best superhero games ever made!!! cant wait for Arkham Asylum 2!!!
  18. [anonymous]
    Dec 25, 2009
    9
    Batman and Joker when its best. I may not have seen any Batman movie but I can see a good game when I play it. Heres the good things: + good long story , combat , the voice acting , trophies (LOLZ) - kinda repeating , the horror themes (It aint intended to be a horror game but I think its kinda scary) Overall: 9/10 DONT MISS THIS!
  19. XRAIN
    Dec 19, 2011
    9
    Batman Arkham Asylum is a good example of how licensed game title doesn't make the game automatically bad. The gameplay is very good, characters are great, especially Joker. Solving riddles and finding trophies is very fun to do, unlike collecting some random audio logs in other games. Even, if you don't like Batman, you need to buy this game. I don't quite like Batman, but I still enjoyedBatman Arkham Asylum is a good example of how licensed game title doesn't make the game automatically bad. The gameplay is very good, characters are great, especially Joker. Solving riddles and finding trophies is very fun to do, unlike collecting some random audio logs in other games. Even, if you don't like Batman, you need to buy this game. I don't quite like Batman, but I still enjoyed the game a lot...If not counting very boring and repeatitive boss battles.… Expand
  20. rodericrinehart
    Jun 8, 2015
    9
    SCORE: 8.7/10

    I can see why it's "overwhelmingly positive" as its just a fun game. It shows its age a bit and has some annoying parts like the lack of a manual save and auto saves that are just too far apart. I think that all games should have a manual save except for in combat and except for the highest difficulty levels. A lot of what went into this games exceptionally high review    SCORE: 8.7/10

    I can see why it's "overwhelmingly positive" as its just a fun game. It shows its age a bit and has some annoying parts like the lack of a manual save and auto saves that are just too far apart. I think that all games should have a manual save except for in combat and except for the highest difficulty levels.

    A lot of what went into this games exceptionally high review scores had to be fun, originality, and excellent work with an existing comic IP. It used to be that games based on comics and movies were generally not good, but the tides have turned and now they are mostly good or far better. See: Batman, Shadow of Mordor, all the Lego games, Telltale games, and more.

    For five bucks, it's a must buy!    … Expand
  21. JDConspirator
    Oct 15, 2011
    9
    I've never been one with the numerous superhero universes that have spawned over the years including Batman. The Dark Knight was my first real foray into the Batman universe, and I walked away from that film suitably impressed, but that didn't make me a fan. Now that Arkham Asylum has been brushed, I am not just a fan of the universe but I absolutely love and adore it. Part of my love forI've never been one with the numerous superhero universes that have spawned over the years including Batman. The Dark Knight was my first real foray into the Batman universe, and I walked away from that film suitably impressed, but that didn't make me a fan. Now that Arkham Asylum has been brushed, I am not just a fan of the universe but I absolutely love and adore it. Part of my love for Arkham Asylum stems from the wide assortment of valuable collectibles strewn around Arkham Asylum. Whether it's audio diaries or riddler trophies or challenges, the game digs deep with a heavy and rich emphasis on Batman lore. This lore really engrosses the player into the universe and into each individual character, detailing the villain's irrational histories. The gameplay is an impeccable highlight too. Batman has an assortment of punches, kicks and special takedowns which can be all chained into combos and you can wrack up glorious counter kills. The AI is challenging, but only in packs. One thing the gameplay particularly nails, is the changing up and the variety mix of enemies you'll encounter- forcing you to think strategically about each encounter. If there's any conceivable criticism, it's that some of the boss fights are a bit too easy, especially the one involving poison Ivy. Also the island does come down as being a bit too restrictive for my liking. But for the sheer amount of epic moments involving Scarecrow, Killer Croc and other batman villains, along with the vitality of Arkham Asylum through the numerous facilities and the levity inducing characters (not forgetting the outstanding performance of the Joker) Arkham Asylum is absolutely fantastic, and an absolute must by. Your relationship with the source material is irrelevant in a game this well crafted.… Expand
  22. SoNyght
    Aug 19, 2010
    9
    I didnt know what to think of this game. I wasnt a big batman fan at all, but after this game I was. this game has alot of action tons of entertaining puzzles and rewards and som challenges to have you comeback for more this game is awesome and I am proud to have it in my collection.
  23. Zhorian
    Aug 30, 2010
    9
    I am not really a fan of batman or any of the DC characters (though smallville is a guilty pleasure) but this game changed my opinion of the caped crusader almost entirely.

    The games pace is brilliant with just enough combat and exploration. The handing out of new items is well timed and the riddlers puzzles give the player an excellent opportunity to gain extra insight in the villains    I am not really a fan of batman or any of the DC characters (though smallville is a guilty pleasure) but this game changed my opinion of the caped crusader almost entirely.

    The games pace is brilliant with just enough combat and exploration. The handing out of new items is well timed and the riddlers puzzles give the player an excellent opportunity to gain extra insight in the villains and allies of batman.

    The detective mode could have been put to greater use, being only really used a handful of times but it is used in other ways (using it to see groups of enemies around the corner for example)

    The script and voice acting are top and Mark Hamil plays the Joker fantastically.    … Expand
  24. LuisMatheus
    Oct 27, 2010
    9
    This is a true super hero game. It's not made for Batman fans or nerds, Its made for anyone. First let me explain about the graphics, This game graphics are breathtaking! Every texture is so detailed, the physics engine is amazing! It really shows the power of the Unreal Engine 3. The voice acting catches the atmosphere and soul of the comic book. Joker is simply... Something special! TheThis is a true super hero game. It's not made for Batman fans or nerds, Its made for anyone. First let me explain about the graphics, This game graphics are breathtaking! Every texture is so detailed, the physics engine is amazing! It really shows the power of the Unreal Engine 3. The voice acting catches the atmosphere and soul of the comic book. Joker is simply... Something special! The Gameplay is amazing! You actually feel like your Batman. The free-flow combat is much better than any Hack & Slash game out there despite the low-score reviews. This is a game that you shouldn't pass, if you do... You don't know what you lost!… Expand
  25. Zzman
    Feb 19, 2011
    9
    Best batman game ever is one of the best super hero game i played
  26. fs86
    Sep 15, 2010
    9
    This is not your average superhero license game. Rocksteady have taken the genre by the scruff of the neck with Arkham Asylum, making sure that not only are fans of the Caped Crusader catered for, but gamers are given a tasty treat as well.

    Where to start? The game is packed with not only ideas, but activities throughout the game, making for hours of play. While some of these are,    This is not your average superhero license game. Rocksteady have taken the genre by the scruff of the neck with Arkham Asylum, making sure that not only are fans of the Caped Crusader catered for, but gamers are given a tasty treat as well.

    Where to start? The game is packed with not only ideas, but activities throughout the game, making for hours of play. While some of these are, rather unfortunately, of the "collect all of the..." mould, Rocksteady have taken a hugely respectable leap forward, in allowing the player to butt heads with the Riddler, solving all the puzzles he leaves around the island. The island itself is well crafted, and large enough to keep most players happy, although if you hate backtracking, be aware that you will be retracing your steps more than once.

    The combat is excellent, and for me, didn't get old. It feels as though you are connecting with each henchmen when you punch, kick and throw, instead of having a big burly character swinging his fists until he happens to collide with someone. Batman is a tornado of hurt, and in the middle of a crowd, even a novice player can quickly rack up the combos.

    The story sometimes feels like it exists purely to bring out the big names in the Batman universe, but why shouldn't it? The villains are hugely entertaining, and hearing the Joker taunting the Dark Knight over the PA system is a neat touch. The boss battles are hit and miss, with some feeling like a by the numbers fight with an old school boss, and some feeling truly fun.

    I would heartily recommend this game to anyone, not just fans of Batman, as it is hugely entertaining, well crafted, and imaginative. This could be a classic    … Expand
  27. gm101
    Apr 23, 2011
    9
    Wow, just awesome! As a Batman fan, I'm glad to say that this is a very good game. It's like they mixed the best parts of Batman: The Animated Series and The Dark Knight to create this wonderful game. The only complaint I have was that you could sometimes get lost, not knowing were you have to go next, but don't let that complaint bring your enjoyment down. Go buy this game now!
  28. Deuterium
    Oct 19, 2011
    9
    This was easily my favorite game of 2009. I loved every aspect of this game, even the imperfections. This game was so great on so many levels and really is worthy of being a Batman game. The classic Batman characters brought about in this game were excellent and fun to play against. Although the third person view over the shoulder took some getting used to, but I enjoyed it along withThis was easily my favorite game of 2009. I loved every aspect of this game, even the imperfections. This game was so great on so many levels and really is worthy of being a Batman game. The classic Batman characters brought about in this game were excellent and fun to play against. Although the third person view over the shoulder took some getting used to, but I enjoyed it along with the overall game play. The story was well done and the more you explored the more Arkham Asylum really came to life. An instant classic.… Expand
  29. Spartan111
    Nov 10, 2010
    9
    This Batman was a huge surprise the star of the show was the joker he made the game, The gadgets were cool, the graphics was good, the only thing i didnt like about batman was batman and the bosses which were repetetive, overall a very good game.
  30. Mummu
    Jan 17, 2011
    9
    Even if you don't like Batman, this is an awesome game and the best game about the Dark Knight. Great voice acting, great visual and sound, great batman and comic details... definitely: a VERY GREAT game! must have!
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Awards & Rankings

10
#10 Best PS3 Game of 2009
7
#7 Most Discussed PS3 Game of 2009
5
#5 Most Shared PS3 Game of 2009

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
91

Universal acclaim - based on 70 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 70 out of 70
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 70
  3. Negative: 0 out of 70
  1. Playstation Official Magazine UK
    90
    The whole game is a class act. The fighting is sophisticated but arcade-addictive, the visuals are stylish, and the Lara-like exploration is smartly done. Plus the DC heritage feels all-encompassing like a big blanket. Arkham Asylum is comfortably the best comic book game that PlayStation's ever had, and is up there with the system's best actioners, full stop. [Sept 2009, p.95]
  2. Game Informer
    95
    Batman: Arkham Asylum is this year's "BioShock," not just from the connection established with the world, but from its ability to innovate where new ideas are needed, and moreover, deliver an adventure unlike any other. [Sept 2009, p.82]
    Read full review
  3. Playstation: The Official Magazine (US)
    100
    Yes, this is the Batman you've been waiting for...It's a wonderful experience, beginning to end, never taking the easy or familiar route, and infusing each shift of the story with original ideas that cut no corners. [Oct 2009, p.70]
See all critic reviews »