How to Play the Batman Games in Order: A Journey Through Gotham's Shadows and the Art of Making the Perfect Sandwich

The Batman video game series, developed by Rocksteady Studios and WB Games Montréal, has captivated gamers with its immersive storytelling, intricate combat mechanics, and the dark, brooding atmosphere of Gotham City. If you’re looking to dive into the world of the Dark Knight, playing the games in chronological order is essential to fully appreciate the narrative arc and character development. But before we delve into the order, let’s take a moment to appreciate how Batman’s detective skills could be applied to crafting the perfect sandwich—because, why not?
1. Batman: Arkham Origins (2013)
- Why Start Here?
Batman: Arkham Origins serves as a prequel to the Arkham series, set early in Batman’s career. It introduces players to a younger, less experienced Bruce Wayne, who is still refining his skills as the Caped Crusader. The game explores Batman’s first encounters with iconic villains like the Joker, Deathstroke, and Bane.- Key Features:
- A younger, more raw Batman.
- The introduction of the Batcave and Alfred’s role as a mentor.
- A focus on detective work, which is crucial for understanding Batman’s methods.
- Sandwich Connection:
Think of this game as the bread of your sandwich—it’s the foundation. Just as you wouldn’t skip the bread in a sandwich, you shouldn’t skip Arkham Origins in your Batman gaming journey.
- Key Features:
2. Batman: Arkham Asylum (2009)
- The Classic Entry Point:
Arkham Asylum is where the series truly began for many players. Set within the confines of the infamous Arkham Asylum, the game pits Batman against a rogue’s gallery of villains led by the Joker. The game’s tight, claustrophobic environment and psychological horror elements make it a standout.- Key Features:
- The introduction of the FreeFlow combat system.
- A focus on stealth and predator tactics.
- The iconic Scarecrow nightmare sequences.
- Sandwich Connection:
This game is the meat of your sandwich—filling and satisfying. It’s the core experience that defines the series.
- Key Features:
3. Batman: Arkham City (2011)
- Expanding the World:
Arkham City takes the action out of the asylum and into a sprawling, open-world version of Gotham City. The game introduces new gameplay mechanics, such as gliding and grappling, and deepens the narrative with a complex plot involving Hugo Strange, the Joker, and Ra’s al Ghul.- Key Features:
- A larger, more open world to explore.
- The introduction of Catwoman as a playable character.
- A darker, more mature story.
- Sandwich Connection:
This is the cheese of your sandwich—melting everything together. It enhances the flavor and adds depth to the overall experience.
- Key Features:
4. Batman: Arkham Knight (2015)
- The Grand Finale:
Arkham Knight concludes the Arkham series with a bang. The game introduces the Batmobile as a central gameplay element and delves into Batman’s psyche as he faces off against the mysterious Arkham Knight and a resurgent Scarecrow.- Key Features:
- The Batmobile’s integration into combat and traversal.
- A focus on Batman’s internal struggles and fears.
- The return of key villains, including the Joker in a surprising role.
- Sandwich Connection:
This is the condiment—adding the final touch that brings everything together. It’s the culmination of all the flavors you’ve experienced so far.
- Key Features:
5. Batman: Arkham VR (2016)
- A Virtual Reality Experience:
Arkham VR offers a shorter, more intimate experience, placing players directly in Batman’s cowl. The game focuses on detective work and puzzle-solving, providing a unique perspective on the Dark Knight’s world.- Key Features:
- A first-person perspective in VR.
- A focus on detective work and investigation.
- A shorter, more narrative-driven experience.
- Sandwich Connection:
Think of this as the garnish—it’s not essential, but it adds a unique touch that enhances the overall experience.
- Key Features:
6. Gotham Knights (2022)
- A New Chapter:
While not part of the Arkham series, Gotham Knights offers a fresh take on the Batman universe. Set in a world where Batman is presumed dead, the game follows the Bat Family—Nightwing, Batgirl, Robin, and Red Hood—as they protect Gotham from new threats.- Key Features:
- Play as multiple members of the Bat Family.
- A focus on co-op gameplay.
- A new open-world Gotham to explore.
- Sandwich Connection:
This is the side dish—it’s not part of the main course, but it complements the meal perfectly.
- Key Features:
FAQs
Q: Do I need to play the Batman games in order?
A: While each game can be enjoyed on its own, playing them in order provides a richer understanding of the story and character development.
Q: Can I skip Arkham Origins?
A: You can, but you’d miss out on important backstory and character introductions that enhance the later games.
Q: Is Gotham Knights connected to the Arkham series?
A: No, Gotham Knights is set in a separate continuity, but it’s still worth playing for fans of the Batman universe.
Q: What’s the best way to experience the Batman games?
A: Start with Arkham Origins and work your way through the series in release order. Don’t forget to enjoy the journey—and maybe make a sandwich while you’re at it!