Batman: Arkham Origins - A Dark Knight's Early Days
"Beware the shadows of Gotham," could be an apt tagline for Batman: Arkham Origins. Developed by WB Montreal, the game is set before the events of the critically acclaimed Arkham Asylum and Arkham City. The game invites players to step into the boots of a younger, less refined Batman as he contends with a bounty placed on his head by the crime lord Black Mask during a perilous Christmas Eve. This premise sets the stage for an action-packed adventure in the iconic Gotham City.
Gameplay and Mechanics
Arkham Origins inherits much of its gameplay from its predecessors, offering the familiar blend of rhythmic combat and stealth-driven predator rooms. While the core gameplay remains untouched, offering the same satisfying combat and stealth mechanics, it also brings a sense of déjà vu. The game fails to significantly innovate, feeling more like a safe play within the established formula.
The expanded Gotham City, while larger, doesn't add much substance to the experience. Side missions and tasks like disarming bombs or answering distress calls end up feeling repetitive, lacking the novelty or depth to make the larger world meaningful.
One notable addition is the revamped case file system, which attempts to delve deeper into Batman's detective skills. Players analyze crime scenes to piece together what transpired, though the process is more about watching events unfold than actively solving puzzles. This feature, while intriguing in concept, ends up being underwhelming in execution.
Story and Character Development
Arkham Origins shines in its narrative and character portrayal. The story explores the origins of Batman's relationships with key characters, including the Joker and Commissioner Gordon. The plot delves into the psychological parallels between Batman and the Joker, adding depth to their complex relationship. The voice acting, particularly Troy Baker's Joker, receives acclaim for capturing the essence of these iconic characters.
Multiplayer Mode
A significant divergence from previous titles is the introduction of a multiplayer mode, developed by Splash Damage. It pits teams against each other in a three-way battle, with players controlling either Bane's mercenaries, Joker's gang, or the duo of Batman and Robin. While the multiplayer offers a novel experience, it's seen as a fleeting diversion rather than a core component of the game.
Technical Aspects and Critique
Graphically, Arkham Origins maintains the high standard set by the series. However, criticisms arise regarding the game's lack of innovation and polish. It's often seen as overly derivative, failing to build upon the foundation laid by Rocksteady's previous entries. Boss battles, a staple of the series, are noted for their lack of balance and creativity, contributing to a feeling of predictability and repetition.
Conclusion
Batman: Arkham Origins, while a competent and enjoyable entry into the Arkham series, struggles to emerge from the shadow of its predecessors. Its adherence to the established formula is both its strength and its downfall. The game is commendable for its storytelling and character development but falls short in offering fresh gameplay experiences. It's a solid, if unambitious, addition to the Batman gaming legacy, capturing the essence of the Dark Knight but failing to elevate the series to new heights.