Batman: Arkham Asylum

 Xbox 360
User Score
8.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1496 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,337 out of 1496
  2. Mixed: 87 out of 1496
  3. Negative: 72 out of 1496
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  1. goodgriff33
    Dec 26, 2022
    9
    Answer: 75 characters is between 10 words and 19 words with spaces included in the character count. If spaces are not included in the character count, then 75 characters is between 12 words and 25 words.
  2. MetaBones
    Apr 4, 2023
    9
    As far as Batman games go, it really doesn't get much better than this. The developers obviously knew what would captivate players and gave them a contained, focused, and varied journey as Batman's toughest night!

    For 2009, the visual fidelity and graphical performance are quite impressive and I didn't have too many issues with frame rate dips on the 360 minus the occasional hiccup when    As far as Batman games go, it really doesn't get much better than this. The developers obviously knew what would captivate players and gave them a contained, focused, and varied journey as Batman's toughest night!

    For 2009, the visual fidelity and graphical performance are quite impressive and I didn't have too many issues with frame rate dips on the 360 minus the occasional hiccup when switching to new locations. Load times were pretty fast and general performance was solid (although it heated my 360 something fierce after a couple of hours).

    What impressed me most was the story and narrative that drives Batman further into the hellhole that is the Asylum. The pacing feels similar to a contained horror survival while seamlessly blending some nice detective/mystery-solving elements, environmental problem-solving, and some great brawling action. My only gripe with the gameplay itself was some combat encounters felt a little stiff and not as fluid as it should have. Several times I saw myself completely missing the target (even when I shouldn't have) and then other times countering in the wrong direction only to have my combo remain intact. The minor combat hiccups weren't consistent to ruin the game or anything but I felt like it could've been refined just a tad more.

    The Scarecrow sequences interwoven with the game were especially incredible and my hats off to not only the developers executing these ideas but the creatives that thought this up in the first place. The transitions between the real world and Batman's hallucinations are transitions I can only imagine in this medium and I feel like Rocksteady has taken full advantage of this medium to provide a definitive and memorable Batman experience.

    The voice acting was incredible too. Joker's taunts and henchmen's re-used dialogue did get repetitive and thoroughly obnoxious after a while but the voice talent on display makes the bother much less. Character variety and villain encounters are also unique and fun to experience. The terrifying environment of Killer Croc's lair is thoroughly anxiety-ridden and the careful maneuvering of Bane makes the boss fights grounded and rewarding to go through.

    In general, it's hard to imagine this game getting any better. If the combat mechanics were just a tad smoother for me, I dare say the game is perfect. It not only delivers on anything a Batman fan might want in a game, but it also makes it thoroughly enjoyable to collect Riddler's trophies, unlock Arkham secrets, and pursue challenges long after the credits roll.    … Expand
  3. Epicdude7979
    May 14, 2023
    9
    What a fantastic Batman game. The fact that they topped this is insane. There’s not much to dislike here.
  4. Dartza
    Aug 1, 2023
    9
    A real Batman experience that makes you feel like you are in the shoes and cowl of the caped crusader. Combat is iconic and detective mode set up many future games to draw inspiration. The story is captivating and exploring Arkham Island has never been more exciting.
  5. nemix3d
    Sep 10, 2023
    9
    Great looking, but I got bored with it. Totally linear, repetetive - buttom mashing dumb but cool looking combat. Overrated. Very consoley!
  6. JamesC
    Aug 31, 2009
    8
    Great game although infuriatingly difficult at times. Very well written, brilliant graphics and gameplay. The Scarecrow sections are outstanding. Best licensed game since Chronicles of Riddick.
  7. LUcaT
    Aug 26, 2009
    8
    Great Batman game, only good by any other standard. Combat is fun at first but becomes more of a chore by the end of the game. No truly difficult puzzles. The stealth bits are great but few and far between. Few bosses. Beat normal difficulty in just over 6 hours. Was hoping for more.
  8. GeorgeW
    Dec 29, 2009
    8
    Great game, worth buying. The graphics are great, as are the controls and general atmosphere of the world. The only thing I would say could've been better is the boss battles. Many of them are based around the same tactic, and may as well be the same fight over and over again. The rest of the game makes up for it though. You get a good selection of gadgets to play with, and there are Great game, worth buying. The graphics are great, as are the controls and general atmosphere of the world. The only thing I would say could've been better is the boss battles. Many of them are based around the same tactic, and may as well be the same fight over and over again. The rest of the game makes up for it though. You get a good selection of gadgets to play with, and there are always multiple ways of approaching a fight (except the boss fights).… Expand
  9. SteveB
    Sep 17, 2009
    8
    Good game, gets a little repetitive, but I still had fun. i'm more into the RPG style game, so take my rating with a grain of salt, but I think it's still impressive for me to give this type of game an 8 when it's not my style. That being said, it's way too quick, not much replay value, so it's best recommended as a rental. Can easily be beaten in under a week.
  10. MarcS
    Nov 13, 2009
    8
    An excellent action game, which takes elements from many different genres of game, and uses them to fantastic effect. My only complaint is the repetitive boss battles, but otherwise this is essential.
  11. JohnnyR
    Nov 22, 2009
    8
    A great game - looks and plays brilliantly. It is definitely too short though - if it slowed between the stages and gave you more opportunity to roam and move off the narrative it would be magnificent. The final stages are a let down too - flawed, clunky boss levels Otherwise though its lots of fun, great graphics, wicked gameplay and never dull.
  12. Watermelon789
    Sep 11, 2011
    8
    At long last, a developer who saved the Batman franchise crumbling to death, Batman Arkham Asylum is what Batman fans or super heroes fans want. Strong combat design makes every punch alive , nice detailed graphics is outstanding, Rock Steady did well in their attempt to save Mr. Bat
  13. bighead6000
    Jul 13, 2011
    8
    In my opinion this is a fun stealth, and action game. The story is pretty good, along with the side modes, and just swooping down and taking down enemies is pretty fun. Even though one negative for me is that my whole game file was somehow deleted, this is still a game worth getting.
  14. toddimuspme
    Nov 20, 2011
    8
    Great games sometimes come from out of the dark and batman is one of those games. This game has something for almost every type of player in mind. It has a great story awesome graphics and makes you not only want to play it till the end but you end up going back to find all those riddles. This game is now at a price of 19.99 or maybe even less some you will get your money's worth here. TheGreat games sometimes come from out of the dark and batman is one of those games. This game has something for almost every type of player in mind. It has a great story awesome graphics and makes you not only want to play it till the end but you end up going back to find all those riddles. This game is now at a price of 19.99 or maybe even less some you will get your money's worth here. The game play is part beatem up part rpg part adventure game and your skills will be tested when playing it on hard. Gamers if you don't have this game what are you waiting for its worth every penny. BUY IT.… Expand
  15. mrmonster
    Jun 6, 2012
    8
    An amazing Batman Adventure. With graphics that will make even the best games jealous, an original and unpredictable storyline, and an original game-play style, this game is no doubt a n intense Batman adventure. As you play, you feel as if you truly are Batman. Although be warned, this game is very, very hard, even on easy.
  16. jul320
    Apr 7, 2014
    8
    Great game with a good mix of stealth and beat-em-up. The series of collectables made me want to revisit places I have been and start anew with new gadgets.
  17. Polish_Infidel
    Apr 7, 2013
    8
    This game features excellent graphics and atmosphere as well as an intriguing story with top notch voice work. The game is a good blend of action, strategy, puzzle-solving and cinematic presentation. Well worth the money. The challenge maps get repetitive and don't really add much to the value but the single player story is where it is at anyway.
  18. WyattTheAwesome
    May 29, 2013
    8
    A very good game. If you're a batman fan, you're going to love this. Fighting people is well done, stealth missions are great, all the villains were done well and storyline was good. Have to take off points for it's piss poor boss fights and it's lack of replay value. Otherwise, good game. Worth a buy.
  19. GamingSoldier
    Aug 8, 2013
    8
    Ok batman is my favourite superhero of all time so it bums me out looking at some of his games it's like bad (batman and robin the game) wasted potential (batman dark tommorow) actually good (batman begins the game) and the why did you cancel the game based on the best film (the dark knight game) but arkham asylum is an awesome game and here's why.Ok batman is my favourite superhero of all time so it bums me out looking at some of his games it's like bad (batman and robin the game) wasted potential (batman dark tommorow) actually good (batman begins the game) and the why did you cancel the game based on the best film (the dark knight game) but arkham asylum is an awesome game and here's why. Pros: fun combat, really great story, Kevin Conroy Mark Hamill and all the voice actors are perfect for their roles, the atmosphere is epic and realistic, the awesome redesigns for the characters, joker challenge maps, makes you feel like batman, the extras like riddler challenges and patient interview tapes along with Amaudaus arkham tapes. Cons: needs more enemy variety in thugs and boss battles, a little too easy, why can't I play as joker on the Xbox version, not much else. I want to thank rocksteady for giving us a great batman game and they better continue the franchise after arkham city… Expand
  20. joao1198pedro
    Oct 19, 2013
    8
    this game has a story mode and a combat system practically spotless, this game is based on one of the best super-heroes.the game has a different system but this game has side quests and it makes not much to do on your map.
  21. Jimi360
    Mar 25, 2016
    8
    A game that truly defied any expectation that it may have had on it, Arkham Asylum is a genre-defining game that will set the standard for any superhero game to come.

    A flawless combat system is one of the main talking points from this game, the ability to be the Batman by taking on huge gangs of thugs with relative ease when using different combos and counter-attacks to make you feel    A game that truly defied any expectation that it may have had on it, Arkham Asylum is a genre-defining game that will set the standard for any superhero game to come.

    A flawless combat system is one of the main talking points from this game, the ability to be the Batman by taking on huge gangs of thugs with relative ease when using different combos and counter-attacks to make you feel very good about yourself when you look around after the battle to see bodies laying everywhere. As well as this, being able to switch to detective mode, and clear a whole room without anyone realising you're there is also hugely rewarding. The scarecrow nightmare missions are exceptional, and even includes a very clever fourth-wall break. Though the voice acting is solid on all parts, the real star of the show is Mark Hamill as the Joker. Hilariously vicious, Hamill does everything in his power to make the Joker both true to the character and memorable within the game, and he excels at both.

    The only real issue within the game is how compact the Asylum actually is. I often got myself lost when trying to find the correct place to go, wandering around the Asylum in all kinds of rooms and areas apart from the correct ones. This is something the sequel addresses in spectacular fashion.

    Batman: Arkham Asylum makes sure that the superhero game is now not an afterthought or a addition to a superhero movie, but hopefully the defining chapter in what could be an exciting time for superhero games. Thank you, Rocksteady, thank you.    … Expand
  22. CenkAlp
    May 15, 2018
    8
    Hikaye = 8
    Oynanış = 7
    Grafikler = 9
    Sesler = 9
    Keyif = 7
    Atmosfer = 7
    Süre = 7
  23. Dperks
    May 9, 2022
    8
    For me when I think of Batman and his large cast of villain's this series is typically what I picture in my head. Most of these interpretations are the definitive version for me. And I think it comes down to the fantastic voice performances from the cast and the designs of the many of the characters Killer Croc is easily my favorite design by far as he scared the **** out of me when IFor me when I think of Batman and his large cast of villain's this series is typically what I picture in my head. Most of these interpretations are the definitive version for me. And I think it comes down to the fantastic voice performances from the cast and the designs of the many of the characters Killer Croc is easily my favorite design by far as he scared the **** out of me when I first played this as a child. Also villain's taunting your death when you die in the game is a fantastic detail that I really applicate they put in.
    I think that a lot of draw backs for Asylum comes down to it's sequels improving the combat and traversal so well that it makes this one feel kind of repetitive in comparison. But when you strip away the sandbox and car and many of the later tools the game is still fun at its core. Taking on large groups of enemies or sneaking around rooms and taking out enemies one by one is so much fun. Getting your combo meter up and avoiding getting hit is invigorating especially if you play on hard mode and so don't have the counter indicator forcing you to pay attention to what each enemy is doing around you.

    Some things that I really like in Arkham Asylum the comic book art style for the menus and the character bios I really missed in later titles as they give the characters so much personality. Also I like how this one has bios for a lot of obscure characters that I had no idea even existed before playing this game. The Riddler trophies I don't really mind in this one even though the reward for getting them all from a narrative perspective is really disappointing to me but they feel the least annoying to get them all in the whole series. Although this is probably because he gives you maps to find them and the games much more linear then its predecessors. Being more so open areas with levels in them then an open world like in later titles.

    I think the biggest disappointment for me though would be the bosses their all just okay or underwhelming. Except the last boss which feels a bit out of character and is just not really fun or challenging to fight honestly. If you've played the game you know what I mean and I think those whatever boss fights is what really hold this game back for me. Still a great time would highly recommend I just don't think its the best in the series.    … Expand
  24. Silverpool
    Nov 9, 2018
    8
    Jugabilidad: Muy bien. Historia: Bien.Jugabilidad: Muy bien. Historia: Bien. Diseño de nivel: Bien. Personajes: Bien. Ambientación: Muy bien. Animación: Bien. Banda sonora: Muy bien. Físicas: Bien. Efectos de sonido: Muy bien. Cinemáticas: Bien. Gráficos: Muy bien.… Expand
  25. azuuu
    Aug 1, 2023
    8
    divertido
    final meio paia e o backtracking não é tão gostoso assim de fazer
    as vezes o combate é meio irresponsivel mas quando funciona, é muito divertido
  26. MaxPaul20
    Mar 3, 2019
    8
    Batman Arkham Asylum is in my opinion the best game in the Arkham series. It set the bases for the future games in the Arkham series with its brilliant use of 3d graphics, beat em up gameplay that puts some side scrolling fighting games to shame, an excellent use of gadgets to benefit all, brilliantly done boss fights and a story that is one of the best out there. Overall I love this gameBatman Arkham Asylum is in my opinion the best game in the Arkham series. It set the bases for the future games in the Arkham series with its brilliant use of 3d graphics, beat em up gameplay that puts some side scrolling fighting games to shame, an excellent use of gadgets to benefit all, brilliantly done boss fights and a story that is one of the best out there. Overall I love this game and I would defiantly recommend this to fans of fighters or Batman.… Expand
  27. Caldan
    Nov 15, 2020
    8
  28. Arya977
    Oct 26, 2022
    8
    Gameplay..............Great
    Graphics................Amazing
    Story.......................Amazing
    Score.....................Good
  29. spencerplewe
    Aug 15, 2022
    8
    After proving his modern popularity in the movies, Batman now shows how he can rule the video game territory, with buttery smooth combat, slick maneuvers, just enough bosses, and the iconic voices of Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill.
  30. yangfanhong
    Jun 19, 2023
    8
    This game changeed the situation that comic and movie adaption games are low budget and low standard games.
  31. MiddleMufo
    Mar 6, 2022
    8
    Toda una sorpresa y eso que no soy muy fan de los superheroes pero con este videojuego es inebitable no ser fan de Batman. Su exploración, su toque metroidvaina y ese combate lo hacen exquisito. Además el carisma del Joker que es brutal.
  32. soldar
    Jun 26, 2020
    8
    Un gran juego de super héroes pero que se limita a un mapa pequeño y que no se llaga a aprovechar al máximo el sistema de exploración
  33. KaleSungurCrane
    Nov 20, 2020
    8
    OVERALL - 88%

    Gameplay - 10/10
    Graphics (for time) - 8/10
    Story - 8/10
    Game Length - 7/10
    Characters - 10/10
    Level/Area Design - 8/10
    Atmosphere - 10/10
    Sound Effects - 7/10
    Soundtrack - 7/10
    Replay Value - 6/10

    Fantastic, creative action.
  34. B00tador
    Dec 3, 2021
    8
    Writing feels quite dated now, but it's still a very good game that doesn't outstay its welcome. I'd argue City has aged better, but this was the better game at the time.
  35. Der_Sperling_
    Jan 14, 2022
    8
    Отличная игра, но на данный момент немного устарела.
  36. Haris_k
    Mar 2, 2022
    8
    Great game but it is slightly repetitive. Not as good as everyone makes it out to be but still a blast.
  37. MorganS
    Oct 20, 2009
    7
    A good game for sure, but not perfect. There are elements which I like; the graphics (the ive seen best on 360 possibly), the controls (very fluid), combat animations, the stealth gameplay, the voice acting, the characters. However, I feel the game is dragged down by several factors. For me, it felt a bit too linear, and a bit too short. I guess thats okay, but it didn't really A good game for sure, but not perfect. There are elements which I like; the graphics (the ive seen best on 360 possibly), the controls (very fluid), combat animations, the stealth gameplay, the voice acting, the characters. However, I feel the game is dragged down by several factors. For me, it felt a bit too linear, and a bit too short. I guess thats okay, but it didn't really thrill me in anyway, and i didnt find myself having too much fun whilst playing it. I really didn't and still don't feel like replaying it any time soon. The playground (consisting of Arkham island) was far too small. I was really hoping for at least a small additional portion of gotham city, but unfortunately we are restricted to the island and its asylum. Limited fun is to be derived from the challenge mode and the riddle solving (which I found incredibly boring) is quite tedious (but thankfully optional). The combat was overly simplified, although it does look good, but i mostly found myself simpling slamming X and Y simultaneously, and again I found that fairly tedious. The fighting againt armed opponents is considerably more satisfying, requiring more planning and reflex, which I did enjoy. The selection of gadgets was on the small side, most of them being fairly similar in my opinion, even after unlocking all the upgrades. Also, there is no opportunity to ride the batmobile or the batjet (or whatever its called), even though they are featured briefly. Perhaps the worst aspect of the game are the boss battles. They were instantly forgettable, and also simple but repetitive. If you are a batman game, you will enjoy this game. If you don't, but enjoy superhero games, it probably is worth buying, as there aren't many superhero games out this generation of any worth. I would have been far more impressed by a game larger in scope; Spider Man The Movie 2 remains my favourite superhero game, maybe its just cas im more of a marvel fan. So overall I rate a 7, which i think is accurate for most gamers (add 1 or 2 to the score if you are a fan of batman or dc).… Expand
  38. GargamelDeLaMorte
    Aug 31, 2009
    7
    10? Please. Can you say overhype? I knew you could. Im almost done with it. Its good- definitely the best Batman and best comic book game thus far. Lemme break it down for you. PROS: Great look, very detailed. Expansive. Good play time. Sick gadgets. Slimmed down but great combat. Decent rogues gallery selection. Excellent boss battles. Some good variety in gameplay. CONS: Funky story 10? Please. Can you say overhype? I knew you could. Im almost done with it. Its good- definitely the best Batman and best comic book game thus far. Lemme break it down for you. PROS: Great look, very detailed. Expansive. Good play time. Sick gadgets. Slimmed down but great combat. Decent rogues gallery selection. Excellent boss battles. Some good variety in gameplay. CONS: Funky story line- I think they could have done something different to help tie in the villains. The Titan thing had its moments, but its kinda cheesy and ham-handed...There could have been a better selection of rogues as well- top tier like Mr. Freeze, Two-Face, Mad Hatter...even if not boss battles, it wouldnt have been hard to squeeze in some cameos-biographies and homages just didnt cut the mustard...also lets face it, the Riddlers riddes were corny. Less is more- a few well concieved and memorabe deathtraps/puzzles would have really displayed how badass the Riddler is, with or without an appearance...Finally, the stealth aspect was not very satisfying- AI was decent..but not nearly as challenging as they HYPED it up to be. I was expecting more use of the environment... resourcefulness in taking out henchmen(dropping or throwing cables, boxes on them, knocking guns from their hands****)...when you were surrounded by 7 crooks the only real method of taking them out was to single them out one by one and cape glide- a fully interactive environment would have been much more fun- - also, gargoyles felt like a real cop out, as did detective mode...seeing enemies instantly through cowel vision mode made gameplay less gripping... I definitey think it would have felt more like Batman to do things the old fashioned way- after all, thats what sets Batman apart from other superheroes in the first place! Conclusion: Can't get everything right I guess...Dont get me wrong, theres a lot to like here, but again, ive got some well founded gripes as well. Its frickin good. But not 10 good- BAA is definitely a 7 good. The game is not without some grating flaws-However, I do not regret buying it.… Expand
  39. DanielD.
    Sep 1, 2009
    7
    I'm very surprised at how critically acclaimed this game has become. Everything about this new Batman game is good, but could be better. For starters, the fighting is undeniably repetitive, including both the style in which you have to take down goons, and the goons themselves. The graphics are very good, but lacks variety completely. Most of the game takes place in dark, grayish I'm very surprised at how critically acclaimed this game has become. Everything about this new Batman game is good, but could be better. For starters, the fighting is undeniably repetitive, including both the style in which you have to take down goons, and the goons themselves. The graphics are very good, but lacks variety completely. Most of the game takes place in dark, grayish corridors and rooms, with little visual impact once you've grown accustomed to the realism. Gotham City sits in the background ready to be explored, but is left out of the game completely. The game also introduces you to the Batmobile from the very start, but never incorporates it into the game except for videos. There are multiple bosses that you don't even fight; Harley Quinn is a main character throughout much of the game, yet you don't even fight her. You simply kill a bunch of the same goons as always, and a video then catches her and locks her up for you. Overall, I've still enjoyed playing the game, but with a Metacritic score of 92 out of 100, you would expect scenery variety and combat that rivals games like God of War, and the exploration of a game like Tomb Raider. It just doesn't live up to the hype it's generated, although hardcore Batman fans should still make it a must-play. 75 out of 100 for me.… Expand
  40. DavidB
    Oct 22, 2009
    7
    I wanted to love this game, but instead, I merely like it. The graphics are excellent, if a bit familiar to anyone who's played multiple Unreal Engine 3-based games. The control is very responsive, and while you can get through most hand-to-hand battles with simple button-mashing, if you take the time to get the combos/moves down, the game's fisticuffs can be very satisfying. I wanted to love this game, but instead, I merely like it. The graphics are excellent, if a bit familiar to anyone who's played multiple Unreal Engine 3-based games. The control is very responsive, and while you can get through most hand-to-hand battles with simple button-mashing, if you take the time to get the combos/moves down, the game's fisticuffs can be very satisfying. The AI is a bit uneven, though. The unarmed thugs don't stand a chance against Batman and his arsenal of gadgets and fighting expertise, even when they outnumber him 8 to 1. However, all of the gun-toting goons are absolute deadeyes, and hardly ever miss (even at long distance at night against a moving target wearing black and grey). The game's biggest disappointment has to be the boss battles. Most of them are overly simplistic, and the ones that are a little more challenging can usually be overcome through simple trial and error. The Killer Croc encounter has to be the most disappointing and anti-climactic of the bunch. I played through much of the game with the inevitable encounter with Croc in the back of my mind, only for it to be reduced to a few batarang flings and a lot of running. I picked this game up based on its high Metacritic score and the fact that I'm a Batman fan in general, and while I don't regret the purchase, I think the developers left a lot on the table with this one, and hopefully the sequel will flesh the experience out a bit more.… Expand
  41. BrianM.
    Aug 26, 2009
    7
    The review are right in saying that it's this years "Bioshock." It's an average at best game released during the summer's long drought of game releases, so the reviewers go nuts over it. If it were released 3 months from now, it would not have scored this high. Same with Bioshock. Lots of style but repetitive and boring gameplay.
  42. CarloT
    Aug 31, 2009
    7
    The game was great, best graphics ever, the plot really really good. But the boss fights? I was extremely disappointed by the fact that we had: The Joker, Harley Quinn, Croc, Bane, Scarecrow, The Riddler and Poison Ivy, and we only get to fight Bane, Poison Ivy, and the joker. The other "boss fights" are just either evading (croc and scarecrow) or looking at them as they shoot you and The game was great, best graphics ever, the plot really really good. But the boss fights? I was extremely disappointed by the fact that we had: The Joker, Harley Quinn, Croc, Bane, Scarecrow, The Riddler and Poison Ivy, and we only get to fight Bane, Poison Ivy, and the joker. The other "boss fights" are just either evading (croc and scarecrow) or looking at them as they shoot you and talk (Harley Quinn). This was a bit frustrating, I went several hours playing, wishing for a boss fight (ever since Bane got pushed to the water), and to my surprise, the next boss fight was 10 minutes before the final boss fight! Also, the first scarecrow scene was great, but they overdid it, I mean, 1 time = good, 2 times = still good, 3 times... errmm ok...? 2 times and 1 fight would've been perfect, but no, croc had to eat him. And croc fight, it's not a fight, you're just running away, avoiding him, and when it seems like you'll fight him, you just press one button to make him fall down in the trap. They could've done so much with the enemies, hope Arkham Asylum 2 improves on this.… Expand
  43. davenbettridge
    Sep 5, 2011
    7
    Batman Arkham Asylum is a fun and worth while single player game managing to make good use of the Batman francise. The game play is fairly fun but eventually becomes too much of a button masher, while it does look cool to bash the crap out of a mob of bad dudes it unfortunately runs on autopilot most of the time. The story is pretty basic but works decently, the main problem I have with itBatman Arkham Asylum is a fun and worth while single player game managing to make good use of the Batman francise. The game play is fairly fun but eventually becomes too much of a button masher, while it does look cool to bash the crap out of a mob of bad dudes it unfortunately runs on autopilot most of the time. The story is pretty basic but works decently, the main problem I have with it is the same problem I have with most comic book 'franchises' in that as it is a franchise there never seems to be an end, we know that batman is never going to die (if he did they will just bring him back to life), he will never totally defeat his enemies either, they will always come back again and again which does water down the story's significance. Recommened.… Expand
  44. WatsonDr
    Nov 13, 2011
    7
    Batman: Arkham Asylum, is a game that feels like you control the fighting sequences in a beautiful world with a leading character that performs true to his name. Yet there are some issues that edge me with this title. Despite a great experience, the world's space is limited and you tend to find yourself back tracking through areas time and time again. Some challenges the game provide areBatman: Arkham Asylum, is a game that feels like you control the fighting sequences in a beautiful world with a leading character that performs true to his name. Yet there are some issues that edge me with this title. Despite a great experience, the world's space is limited and you tend to find yourself back tracking through areas time and time again. Some challenges the game provide are quite entertaining and require some thought and, the game often reminds you that you are a man in a suit, yet it felt like something was missing from this title.
    A sense of urgency is often attempted to manifest, yet it never really develops. It is more a relief to finish the plot line than a satisfaction. The boss fights I considered less challenging than grunts, which was a vital flaw in this title.    … Expand
  45. houyi111
    May 10, 2013
    7
    Maybe the best (as welll as the only) comic-book based game I ever played. The combat/combo is extremely well-done and fun to play. You actually feel you are THE batman here. The story/level design is also unexpected excellent. The boss fights are interesting and i love all of them. But the game is too short and although I enjoy it I dont want to replay this game, which lowered the scoreMaybe the best (as welll as the only) comic-book based game I ever played. The combat/combo is extremely well-done and fun to play. You actually feel you are THE batman here. The story/level design is also unexpected excellent. The boss fights are interesting and i love all of them. But the game is too short and although I enjoy it I dont want to replay this game, which lowered the score of this game for me.… Expand
  46. Artimus1000
    Jul 30, 2014
    7
    To be brutally honest here, having played this game on other systems, I was very disappointed with the Xbox 360 version. In all fairness this game without knowledge of how much better it was on another system really deserved at best a 4, maybe less. The problems that where rampant achievements would not be acknowledged making you go back and repeat something over and over if you wantedTo be brutally honest here, having played this game on other systems, I was very disappointed with the Xbox 360 version. In all fairness this game without knowledge of how much better it was on another system really deserved at best a 4, maybe less. The problems that where rampant achievements would not be acknowledged making you go back and repeat something over and over if you wanted credit, just sad all day long on Xbox.… Expand
  47. BrettSiebenhaar
    Aug 13, 2018
    7
    This was a great introduction to a Batman game by Rocksteady! I dont think many expected this game to be good, but wow, it was! The gameplay, the combat, the graphics, the villains, there was a lot going for this game and of course, a sequel was definitely expected, which we did get and they made it even better than Asylum! This game was just limited, but Rocksteady was just playing itThis was a great introduction to a Batman game by Rocksteady! I dont think many expected this game to be good, but wow, it was! The gameplay, the combat, the graphics, the villains, there was a lot going for this game and of course, a sequel was definitely expected, which we did get and they made it even better than Asylum! This game was just limited, but Rocksteady was just playing it safe as their first Batman game, but the story worked out and the whole trilogy worked out great. Origins doesn't count, sorry.… Expand
  48. HagenM
    Sep 20, 2009
    6
    I went into this game only because my friends begged me to give it a second chance as I was utterly unimpressed by the demo. I'll start off by saying that the character designs are fugly, the dialogue is atrocious, and the script writing is border-line cliche. However, these are just minor annoyances, not big problems. The biggest problem with this game is that it is B O R I N G. I went into this game only because my friends begged me to give it a second chance as I was utterly unimpressed by the demo. I'll start off by saying that the character designs are fugly, the dialogue is atrocious, and the script writing is border-line cliche. However, these are just minor annoyances, not big problems. The biggest problem with this game is that it is B O R I N G. There's really nothing fun to do in this game. The most fun I had was swinging from gargoyles and gliding from the top of buildings.… Expand
  49. ClarkGriswold
    Nov 17, 2009
    6
    For every cool thing about this game there are two frustrating and/or annoying things. The coolest things being the villains and voice acting, the worst being the controls and fighting (I'm trying to recall a time I died that wasn't caused by performing an action that was contrary to my input). There was almost enough frustration to make me give up on the game altogether--it was For every cool thing about this game there are two frustrating and/or annoying things. The coolest things being the villains and voice acting, the worst being the controls and fighting (I'm trying to recall a time I died that wasn't caused by performing an action that was contrary to my input). There was almost enough frustration to make me give up on the game altogether--it was a *very* close call--and when I finished it, it was a big "meh."… Expand
  50. JoeC.
    Aug 30, 2009
    6
    This game is way overrated. It doesn't suck, but there's NO WAY it deserves an average Metacritic score comparable to truly great games like Bioshock and Fallout 3. The game environment is beautiful, but disappointingly non-interactive. At least in the demo, Batman can only climb and grapple to a limited set of pre-determined grappling points. I think reviewers are going This game is way overrated. It doesn't suck, but there's NO WAY it deserves an average Metacritic score comparable to truly great games like Bioshock and Fallout 3. The game environment is beautiful, but disappointingly non-interactive. At least in the demo, Batman can only climb and grapple to a limited set of pre-determined grappling points. I think reviewers are going overboard with praise simply because the graphics and sound are so beautiful. However, I think the gameplay (at least in the demo) was pretty dull/average at best.… Expand
  51. Seamus100
    Nov 29, 2013
    6
    This game was frustrating to play. I say "was" because I didn't bother to finish it and turned it in for credit for another, different game. During the fighting (Poison Ive and the Party at the Penitentiary fighting) the control input vs. Batman's reaction was so frustrating that I gave up playing.
    If you want to play a Batman game I would recommend skipping over this game and get    This game was frustrating to play. I say "was" because I didn't bother to finish it and turned it in for credit for another, different game. During the fighting (Poison Ive and the Party at the Penitentiary fighting) the control input vs. Batman's reaction was so frustrating that I gave up playing.
    If you want to play a Batman game I would recommend skipping over this game and get Arkham City instead.
    Arkham City is sooo much better!    … Expand
  52. youlouz
    Jan 21, 2015
    6
    This game is fun, but needs a lot of work.

    PROS
    -Nice combat
    -good graphics

    CONS
    -boring
    -poor story
    -long and confusing gameplay
    -bad controls
  53. leofravoline
    May 10, 2022
    6
    É overrated na minha opinião, o combate é uma delícia realmente, mas controlar o batman fora do combate é estranho, é como controlar um tanque, fora que a unreal engine e todo mundo no jogo ser bombado pra caralho é esquisito.
  54. Yojimbo2015
    Jun 28, 2023
    6
    A really good visual interpretation of the characters, some cool gadgetry and an open environment to explore with puzzles to solve makes Arkham Asylum an very impressive game initially, but after a while the combat gets very, very repetitive.
  55. TimS
    Aug 26, 2009
    5
    This is the most overhyped game of the summer. There's nothing new here you haven't played before and the character animations are so slow that you feel like you're playing in molasses. Play the demo or rental and save your money for something better that isn't as insanely hyped.
  56. RichardP.
    Sep 15, 2009
    5
    Massive over-hype! Lovely graphics and design, but very little actual gameplay mechanic. I feel as though there's only really 3/4 hours of good gameplay in this game. There after, it repeats and repeats itself to the point of boredom. For those that will disagree with me, that bit with Killer Croc? The game wants you to walk very slowly and throw your batarang a few times. This Massive over-hype! Lovely graphics and design, but very little actual gameplay mechanic. I feel as though there's only really 3/4 hours of good gameplay in this game. There after, it repeats and repeats itself to the point of boredom. For those that will disagree with me, that bit with Killer Croc? The game wants you to walk very slowly and throw your batarang a few times. This section of the game is like pulling teeth. The Scarecrow bits are impressive the first time, but then become cheap and repetitive. The Riddler's riddles are usually just a matter of finding the one out-of-the-ordinary object in a room and focusing on it. Unless you put a huge amount of time into tracking them all down, you're subjected by the Riddler's crappy taunts throughout. Stealth bits are cheap and repetitive. The enemies are boring and repetitive. Poison Ivy boss fight is awful and ridiculous. The final boss fight is boring, mostly just more thugs. Over all though. The design and voice acting is excellent and the bit where Batman relives his parents death is gaming magic ..... but sadly it's the only memorable bit.… Expand
  57. aadms
    Nov 8, 2011
    5
    I picked this game up because of all of the Arkham City hype going on and I thought I would see what I missed out on Batman's first Arkham adventure from two years ago. I didn't miss anything. I've played enough of these games with Ninja Gaiden, God of War, and Splinter Cell that I don't find them enjoyable anymore and remembered why I passed on this one. It's just your basic hit the "A"I picked this game up because of all of the Arkham City hype going on and I thought I would see what I missed out on Batman's first Arkham adventure from two years ago. I didn't miss anything. I've played enough of these games with Ninja Gaiden, God of War, and Splinter Cell that I don't find them enjoyable anymore and remembered why I passed on this one. It's just your basic hit the "A" button until you get to your next cut-scene, mash the "X" button until everyone is defeated, and then figure out which particular object you need to use to move to the next area. This "trial and error" progression to make it through the next level is as old as the first Castlevanyia. I prefer the games that allow more than one way to complete a mission and allows improvising instead of resigning to the game developers single choice of progression. Why can't I use that particular duct work to swing over to an area when not to long ago I had to use a similiar duct work to progress before? This idiotic reasoning breaks the immersion of the story and constantly reminds you that you are only playing a game that has very limiting rules. These are the reasons why I stopped playing games like this about five years ago. I'm thankful that games have evolved into more engaging experiences like Assassin's Creed, Mass Effect, Red Dead Redempton, and so on. And one more thing....whose idea was it to make a Batman that cannot disarm an enemy?! What are those weapons ducted-taped to their hands?… Expand
  58. Justareviewer21
    Jul 19, 2020
    5
    I think this is an overrated game, the story is mediocre, the characters are ok, and the gameplay is normal, it’s the atmosphere and batmans lore what make this a decent game
  59. catchalltrash
    Sep 10, 2009
    4
    I'm about an hour and a half into the game. So far it has been a disappointing experience. The combat is dreadful, navigating the environment is clunky and awkward, character movement is too slow, and the "checkpoint" system needs work. I'm really glad this is a rental.
  60. LeefnaS.
    Sep 28, 2009
    4
    It's like there's some kind of conspiracy to trick me into thinking this game doesn't suck. I think we need more games where you run around and look for stuff and pretend like that's what a 'puzzle' is.
  61. Broyax
    Apr 14, 2017
    4
    On sent bien que ce jeu a fait l'objet d'un soin très attentif, surtout techniquement : Rocksteady maîtrise parfaitement l'Unreal Engine, toujours beau et fluide sans compter les temps de chargement quasi-inexistants ; ensuite le système de combat au corps-à-corps bien que basé sur une mécanique de mini-QTE est distrayant mais répétitif à la longue. Une mention spéciale (tout de même !)On sent bien que ce jeu a fait l'objet d'un soin très attentif, surtout techniquement : Rocksteady maîtrise parfaitement l'Unreal Engine, toujours beau et fluide sans compter les temps de chargement quasi-inexistants ; ensuite le système de combat au corps-à-corps bien que basé sur une mécanique de mini-QTE est distrayant mais répétitif à la longue. Une mention spéciale (tout de même !) pour la VF, parfaite.

    Sorti de là, il reste que la musique est passe-partout et n'a jamais le caractère épique des 2 premiers films de Tim Burton. Le jeu est très (trop) dirigiste : quand on a contourné un groupe et qu'on lit à la porte suivante "vous devez tout nettoyer avant de continuer", c'est un peu dur à avaler ! les passages "action" ou "furtif" sont de toute façon imposés, pas d'alternative, alors que la disposition de l'île laissait présager une certaine liberté. Les énigmes sont pour leur part assez ridicules et simplistes.

    Destinées à varier le gameplay, les phases "plate-forme" en vue de profil nous ramènent 25 ans en arrière et ne sont pas du meilleur goût. Quant à l'interface, elle est souvent inutilement compliquée comme le nombre d'étapes pour faire exploser un mur par exemple ; manque de suite dans les idées également (pourquoi devoir maintenir la gâchette quand on passe en "furtif" ?...).

    Bref, fidèle adaptation sur le papier d'une licence basse de plafond mais qui ne m'a pas impressionné plus que ça : je ne me suis pas emmerdé mais je ne me suis pas vraiment amusé non plus ! ça manque de passion et on n'a d'ailleurs aucune sympathie particulière pour ce héros bodybuildé qui se prend très au sérieux (contrairement aux films de Tim Burton qui a su voir plus loin).    … Expand
  62. Jacob
    Aug 27, 2009
    3
    The entire world looks incredibly fake, the fighting is very robotic and annoying, and the objectives are not interesting in the slightest. On top of that, they changed Harley Quinn's costume for the worst. From a technical perspective, the lip syncing and facial expressions look like something from the 90s, which really makes the game hard to enjoy. The game didn't entertain The entire world looks incredibly fake, the fighting is very robotic and annoying, and the objectives are not interesting in the slightest. On top of that, they changed Harley Quinn's costume for the worst. From a technical perspective, the lip syncing and facial expressions look like something from the 90s, which really makes the game hard to enjoy. The game didn't entertain me, so i'm giving it a low score.… Expand
  63. MylesW
    Sep 12, 2009
    3
    Extremely overrated. The boss fights are repetitive, the gameplay is subpar, not that much replay value. The graphics and sound make it worthy of a rent, not much more. All reviews fail to note any of the negatives of this game. Watch some gameplay videos, play the demo and rent before you buy or you'll be disappointed as I have been.
  64. Luke
    Aug 26, 2009
    3
    Maybe I'm playing a different game. But the Batman AA game i'm playing suffers from clunky controls, and ok graphics. the gameplay is only so so. I've only played the game for an hour and a half but so far I'm not enjoying it. But the critics love it, so what do I know
  65. hoggys2much
    Jul 8, 2011
    3
    Here is my review of Batman AA.

    I bought this game after trying the demo and thought I would give it a go. Here is my review for this mediocre game: Graphics: The graphics are very mediocre. They were probably good 2 years ago but they have aged badly. I have other games from 2009 and they just kick the heck out of this games graphics. Too dark, a bit bland and totaly unexciting in my    Here is my review of Batman AA.

    I bought this game after trying the demo and thought I would give it a go. Here is my review for this mediocre game:

    Graphics: The graphics are very mediocre. They were probably good 2 years ago but they have aged badly. I have other games from 2009 and they just kick the heck out of this games graphics. Too dark, a bit bland and totaly unexciting in my view.

    Controlls: The controlls are horrendous. At times they are so unresponsive it is beyond a joke. I have lost count the number of times I have pressed "Y" for counter and nothing happend or gone to fire my baterang and nothing has happened and I have noticed on numerous occasions that you have to actually stop running before you can do other moves. Terrible controlls. You can't do anything else whilst running around. Pathetic.

    Gameplay: Very repetative short and mediocre. This is the gameplay, detect fingerprints, tobacco follow trail rinse repeat about 100 times, beat up bad guys rinse repeat, use stealth to get past guys with guns rinse and repeat. After the third time I was like not again.

    The boss battles are the worst I have ever seen in my 30 years of gaming. The final Joker boss battle was the worst most pathetic end of game boss battle I haved ever done in my life. You never fought him. You fought his crap pathetic minions AGAIN for the millionth time. Someone needs to tell the creators the mid game bosses are not ment to be harder than the end game boss.

    Poison Ivy was a joke and as for Killer Croc don't get me started! That is the worst boss battle I have ever seen in my life. Whoever came up with that should be shot! Terrible.

    The length of the game was also trully pathetic. It is the shortest game I own. Someone really needs to tell Eidos how to make games with graphics and gameplay length.

    I can play games for upto 6 hours a day and I did this in 3 DAYS! Bloody hell. Talk about short. I played Lego Batman for the same length of time each day and that took me 2 WEEKS to get it to 100%.

    They had to add those ridiculous riddles to pad out the game because they knew they had created a short game!

    Also there is no replayability value to it whatsoever. Pathetic. Once you do story mode there is nothing left to do in the game except for those boring challenges.

    Story and voice acting: Again horrendous!

    Overall a trully mediocre (at best) game and I am baffled at how this won all these awards. It is the second most overhyped and overrated game I have played only beaten by Assassin's Creed 1.

    It is just another example of the reviewers falling for the hype machine. Someone plaese tell the reviewers what hyping up means as they haven't got a clue!

    Thank goodness I only spent £9.90 ($15) on this as it is not worth anymore than that.

    Overall score 4/10.    … Expand
  66. 2CatShakur
    Nov 4, 2012
    3
    After a friend of mine harassed me for basically only playing FPS games, he suggested I give this a try. Based on all the critical acclaim, I decided to give it a go. And I'm sorry, I've got to say, I don't get it. The controls are incredibly clunky. There are way too many irritating collectibles and puzzles. This game is just tedious and very frustrating. One of the few good things I canAfter a friend of mine harassed me for basically only playing FPS games, he suggested I give this a try. Based on all the critical acclaim, I decided to give it a go. And I'm sorry, I've got to say, I don't get it. The controls are incredibly clunky. There are way too many irritating collectibles and puzzles. This game is just tedious and very frustrating. One of the few good things I can say about it is that I was a fan of the Batman comic books growing up, and they stayed very true to the characters. Otherwise, definitely one of the most overrated games of the last few years.… Expand
  67. eye4things
    May 16, 2011
    2
    This game is broken. Two bugs exist that can make it unplayable, and you can only use one save slot, so there is no "going back a bit" to re-do. Other than these two unforgivable bugs, the game is great. I cannot confirm, but think that they both exist in PS3 and PC versions also. One of the bugs can be avoided, and I will help you avoid frustration by explaining how below with as fewThis game is broken. Two bugs exist that can make it unplayable, and you can only use one save slot, so there is no "going back a bit" to re-do. Other than these two unforgivable bugs, the game is great. I cannot confirm, but think that they both exist in PS3 and PC versions also. One of the bugs can be avoided, and I will help you avoid frustration by explaining how below with as few spoilers as possible.
    (MINOR SPOILERS START NOW). Wait until earthquakes, then read the rest and there will bot no spoilers. (SPOILERS START HERE, unless you are were I have asked) When you return to Botonacal Gardens going after Ivy, do not attempt to open any doors in the greenhouse that are covered with vinces. Once through, the game saves you in a room that there is no way to exit. Avoid this one and hope the other (pure chance/luck) doesn't happen to you and it's a great game.    … Expand
  68. metacritiq
    Nov 18, 2013
    2
    Not fun, I have to agree with all of the other negative reviews. The gameplay is linear, like walking through a movie with only one possible course of action and either you're doing it or not. Combat is okay, but repetitive. I don't understand why people think this is what a "fun" game is. I can play for about 15 minutes at a time and then I think "working on my resume would be moreNot fun, I have to agree with all of the other negative reviews. The gameplay is linear, like walking through a movie with only one possible course of action and either you're doing it or not. Combat is okay, but repetitive. I don't understand why people think this is what a "fun" game is. I can play for about 15 minutes at a time and then I think "working on my resume would be more fun than this." I struggle to understand how this game has a metascore of 92 and a user score of 8.7. It's just Not Fun. I created an account here just to let people know.… Expand
  69. BillScurry
    Sep 3, 2011
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game is wildly overrated, in that everyone seems to think that running around a bafflingly linear environment while mashing the 'X' button during combat is somehow fun. There is no point to any of the combat, or combos, or weapon use, because it's all just part of a redundant routine that plays out exactly the same no matter how many enemies you fight. What's more, some sequences are designed to kill you at least 30 times, requiring you to play the same five minutes over and over again until the AI lets you get lucky. The point I stuffed it back in the box was the time when I walked into a room with six gun thugs and booby-trapped gargoyles, thereby ensuring total failure and unlimited amount of times. This is not fun, and I don't see how anyone could possibly find it fun.… Expand
  70. herrmoekl
    Aug 3, 2021
    0
    A Masterpiece & the best Game in the Series

    This game is an amazing lesson in atmospherical density and level design, both things in which the prequels while improving on the gameplay, disappointed. It was also the first game ever that really made me feel like a superhero...
  71. azartffd
    Jan 11, 2021
    0
    good history, controls, the truth for me is one of the best games I've played
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Awards & Rankings

4
#4 Best Xbox 360 Game of 2009
4
#4 Most Discussed Xbox 360 Game of 2009
9
#9 Most Shared Xbox 360 Game of 2009

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
92

Universal acclaim - based on 78 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 78 out of 78
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 78
  3. Negative: 0 out of 78
  1. My Gamer
    88
    What may be one of Batman’s worst nights of his life may end up being one of many players’ best experiences of the year.
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  2. Xbox Achievements
    93
    This is certainly not a game for just Batman fans, comic fans or action fans; this is a game that everyone should play and thoroughly enjoy. It looks beautiful, plays like a dream and has a superb mix of action, stealth and detective elements. The combat is intuitive, flexible and surprisingly deep too. Give this game a go and you will not be pleasantly surprise, you will be blown away.
    Read full review
  3. SpazioGames
    90
    Batman Arkham Asylum is a product of absolute value that can count on a cast of colorful characters to build a great game, really fun. The greatest strengths of the production lie in the gameplay built around what are the real capabilities of Batman, mixing action and stealth section, but always related with the universe from which have been extrapolated. Rocksteady's game is certainly the new standard for understanding how produce games under license, adapting for videogaming the very spirit of this historic character.
    Read full review
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