The Batman video game series has a rich history, with numerous titles that have captivated gamers and Batman fans alike. With so many games to choose from, it can be daunting to decide where to start. Here's a list of 10 Batman games in the order you should play them first, taking into account their storyline, gameplay, and overall impact on the series.
Introduction to the Batman Game Series
The Batman game series has undergone significant evolution over the years, with various developers and publishers contributing to its growth. From the early days of side-scrollers to the modern era of open-world adventures, the series has something to offer for every type of gamer. The following list highlights the most iconic and influential Batman games, in the order you should play them to fully appreciate the character’s digital journey.
Early Beginnings: Batman’s First Games
The first Batman game, Batman, was released in 1986 for the Amstrad CPC and other 8-bit platforms. Although it’s not as well-known as some of the other titles on this list, it marked the beginning of the Batman video game franchise. The early games were primarily side-scrollers, with a focus on platforming and basic combat mechanics.
| Game Title | Release Year | Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Batman | 1986 | Amstrad CPC, Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum |
| Batman: The Video Game | 1989 | NES |
| Batman: The Caped Crusader | 1988 | Amstrad CPC, Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum |
Main Series: The Modern Era
The modern Batman game series began with the release of Batman: Arkham Asylum in 2009. Developed by Rocksteady Studios, this game revolutionized the series with its focus on stealth, strategy, and a deep narrative. The success of Arkham Asylum led to the creation of several sequels and spin-offs, cementing the series’ place as one of the most beloved and respected in the gaming industry.
The Arkham Series
The Arkham series consists of four main games: Batman: Arkham Asylum, Batman: Arkham City, Batman: Arkham Origins, and Batman: Arkham Knight. Each game builds upon the previous one, introducing new characters, gameplay mechanics, and storylines. The series is known for its dark and gritty tone, as well as its faithfulness to the Batman comic book universe.
- Batman: Arkham Asylum (2009)
- Batman: Arkham City (2011)
- Batman: Arkham Origins (2013)
- Batman: Arkham Knight (2015)
Other Notable Games
In addition to the Arkham series, there are several other notable Batman games that are worth playing. Batman: The Telltale Series (2016) is a narrative-driven game that focuses on the character’s early days as a crimefighter. Batman: The Enemy Within (2017) is a sequel to the Telltale series, offering a unique take on the Batman universe. Lego Batman: The Videogame (2008) and its sequels are family-friendly games that offer a lighthearted and humorous take on the character.
Recent Releases
The most recent Batman game, Gotham Knights (2022), is an action-adventure game developed by WB Games Montreal. Although it’s not directly connected to the Arkham series, it offers a fresh take on the Batman universe, with a focus on co-op gameplay and a new narrative.
What is the best Batman game for beginners?
+The best Batman game for beginners is Batman: Arkham Asylum. It's an excellent introduction to the series, with a engaging narrative and intuitive gameplay mechanics.
Is the Arkham series connected to the other Batman games?
+The Arkham series is a self-contained narrative, but it does reference other Batman games and comic book storylines. However, it's not directly connected to the other games, and can be played as a standalone series.
In conclusion, the Batman game series offers a rich and diverse range of experiences, from the early side-scrollers to the modern open-world adventures. By playing the games in the order listed above, you’ll be able to fully appreciate the character’s digital journey and enjoy some of the best superhero games of all time.
