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Batman: Arkham Knight

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Batman: Arkham Knight
Item: Batman: Arkham Knight
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2015

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Crime, Open World, Fighting, Stealth, Single Player

AvailableJun 23, 2015

PlatformXbox One, PC, PlayStation 4

DeveloperRocksteady Studios

Overview

Batman: Arkham Knight brings the award-winning Arkham trilogy from Rocksteady Studios to its epic conclusion. Developed exclusively for New-Gen platforms, Batman: Arkham Knight introduces Rocksteady's uniquely designed version of the Batmobile. The highly anticipated addition of this legendary vehicle, combined with the acclaimed gameplay of the Arkham series, offers gamers the ultimate and complete Batman experience as they tear through the streets and soar across the skyline of the entirety of Gotham City. In this explosive finale, Batman faces the ultimate threat against the city that he is sworn to protect, as Scarecrow returns to unite the super criminals of Gotham and destroy the Batman forever.

Elsewhere

9.0

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Batman: Arkham Knight offers a compelling narrative praised for its character development and emotional depth, resonating with themes of failure and madness. Critics laud its gripping twists and character focus, but many also criticize the story for coherence issues, plot holes, and predictability, leading to a polarized reception. While some find it a worthy conclusion to Rocksteady's saga, others feel it squanders potential and lacks thrilling connections. Overall, the narrative's complexity leaves players with a mixed experience, balancing moments of brilliance against significant drawbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Batman: Arkham Knight has received a mix of praise from various critics, highlighting its engaging narrative and character development. Reviewers such as Game Informer and Digital Spy commend the storytelling as one of the game's greatest strengths, with Digital Spy specifically noting the relatable themes of failure and madness that resonate throughout the plot. Critics like USgamer and PlayStation Universe describe the narrative as a worthy conclusion to Rocksteady's Batman saga, emphasizing its complexity and emotional depth. Additionally, Toronto Sun points out the gripping nature of the story, filled with twists and shocking moments that delve into Bruce Wayne's tortured psyche, while GameTrailers appreciates the story's surprises and character focus. However, alongside the praise, numerous critics have voiced significant concerns regarding the story's coherence and execution. Reviewers from PCWorld and EGM criticize the plot as a "mess" filled with silly elements and plot holes, suggesting that it squanders the potential of its villains. Game Over Online echoes this sentiment, describing the narrative as a letdown compared to previous entries in the series, while The Jimquisition notes that despite some fantastic scenes, the overall story lacks a thrilling connection. Furthermore, PSX Extreme and Games.cz highlight the predictability of the narrative and its failure to deliver compelling motivations for the characters, which detracts from the overall impact of the story. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the story of Batman: Arkham Knight is mixed, with a notable divide in opinions. While many appreciate the character-driven moments and emotional depth, as seen in reviews from Gaming Nexus and LaPS4, others express disappointment in the plot's execution and coherence. Critics like TheSixthAxis and Game Revolution emphasize that the dual antagonists create a discordant narrative, while others, such as Worth Playing, mention that individual moments shine but fail to coalesce into a compelling whole. This dichotomy reflects the challenges of balancing a complex narrative with the expectations set by its predecessors, ultimately leaving players with a varied experience of the game's story.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Batman: Arkham Knight impresses with its polished combat mechanics and engaging gameplay variety, earning praise for its fluidity and new gadgets. The Batmobile adds excitement but is criticized for overshadowing traditional stealth and combat, leading to some repetitive gameplay. Despite concerns over freshness, critics largely agree that the game delivers a compelling experience that successfully continues the series' legacy.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Batman: Arkham Knight has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who highlight the series' signature combat mechanics and the introduction of new features that enhance the overall experience. Reviewers from outlets like EGM and PCWorld praise the combat system as a high point, noting its fluidity and the incorporation of new gadgets and takedown moves that keep the action engaging. Critics such as Game Revolution and Digital Spy commend the variety in gameplay, which includes a mix of combat, stealth, and puzzle-solving elements, while also noting that the core mechanics feel polished and satisfying. The introduction of the Batmobile, despite some reservations, is generally seen as a welcome addition that adds depth to the gameplay, with critics like CGMagazine and Impulsegamer appreciating the new level of excitement it brings. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the overuse of the Batmobile and the impact it has on the overall gameplay experience. Many reviewers, including Hardcore Gamer and PC Gamer, express concern that players spend too much time in the Batmobile, detracting from the traditional Batman experience of stealth and hand-to-hand combat. Critics like Game Revolution and GRYOnline.pl point out that while the Batmobile offers new gameplay opportunities, its frequent use can feel forced and repetitive, leading to a sense of fatigue. Additionally, some critics, such as PC Invasion and GamingTrend, argue that while the combat remains enjoyable, it is starting to show its age, with the gameplay lacking the freshness that characterized earlier entries in the series. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Batman: Arkham Knight delivers a compelling gameplay experience, with many praising the combat and the variety of mechanics available. While the Batmobile's implementation has sparked debate, the majority agree that the core gameplay elements are well-executed and enjoyable. Critics like The Escapist and Pure Xbox highlight the game's ability to make players feel like Batman, with a strong focus on combat and stealth. Despite some criticisms, the general sentiment leans towards the positive, indicating that Batman: Arkham Knight successfully builds upon the legacy of its predecessors while introducing new elements that resonate with fans of the franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Batman: Arkham Knight dazzles with stunning graphics and a richly detailed Gotham, earning rave reviews for its aesthetic. Critics praise the atmospheric design and character realism, especially Batman's Batsuit. However, the PC version suffers from significant performance issues, including frame drops and problematic Batmobile controls. Despite these flaws, the game is hailed as a visual triumph in current-gen gaming, solidifying its place in the Batman franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

91%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Batman: Arkham Knight have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, with many praising the game's stunning aesthetic and attention to detail. Reviewers such as Digital Spy and GamesRadar+ highlighted the darkly beautiful world of Gotham City, describing it as a richly detailed environment that feels handcrafted. The incorporation of neon lights and rain-soaked streets was noted by critics like GameSpot and Quarter to Three, who emphasized how these elements contribute to the game's atmospheric experience. The character designs, particularly Batman's Batsuit, were also commended for their realism and fluidity, with Cheat Code Central calling it the best modern Batsuit ever seen. Overall, the visual fidelity was described as exceptional, with Game Over Online noting that the graphics take the series to new heights. However, not all reviews were entirely positive. Critics like Softpedia and GameStar pointed out significant performance issues with the PC version, describing it as unplayable on most systems and experiencing frame drops despite the addition of graphical options. Additionally, The Jimquisition criticized the Batmobile controls and unrealistic physics, which detracted from the overall experience. Other minor technical limitations were mentioned by Multiplayer.it, who noted occasional lower-quality textures and frame rate drops during driving sequences. These issues suggest that while the visual design is impressive, the technical execution, particularly on certain platforms, has room for improvement. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Batman: Arkham Knight boasts some of the best graphics seen in current-generation gaming. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the visual artistry and design, with many praising the detailed environments and character models. Critics like Hobby Consolas and PlayStation LifeStyle emphasized the game's ability to immerse players in a vibrant and dynamic Gotham City. While technical issues on the PC version and some minor graphical inconsistencies were noted, the game's visual achievements and the rich, atmospheric design have left a lasting impression, solidifying its reputation as a visually stunning entry in the Batman franchise.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Batman: Arkham Knight boasts impressive sound design and stellar voice acting, particularly from Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill, creating an immersive Gotham atmosphere. Critics generally praise the audio experience, but some note inconsistencies in minor character performances and a lackluster soundtrack compared to earlier games. Overall, the game's audio elements significantly enhance the experience, though some shortcomings exist.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

84%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

16%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of Batman: Arkham Knight is predominantly positive, with many critics praising various aspects of the audio experience. Reviewers from 3DJuegos and Hobby Consolas highlighted the impressive sound design, while ActionTrip and Digitally Downloaded commended the brilliant voice acting and enjoyable music. The immersive atmosphere created by the soundtrack was noted by Atomix and Vandal, with the latter emphasizing how the powerful soundtrack enhances the mood of Gotham City. Critics like Game Informer and PSX Extreme remarked on the high-quality voice performances from a star-studded cast, including Kevin Conroy as Batman and Mark Hamill as the Joker, further contributing to the game's engaging narrative. However, not all feedback was entirely favorable. Some critics pointed out inconsistencies in the quality of voice acting, particularly with minor characters. Gamer.no mentioned that while the main characters delivered strong performances, some minor roles felt flat and uninspired. Hardcore Gamer expressed disappointment in the soundtrack, suggesting it lacked the epic feel of previous titles in the series. Similarly, GameWatcher criticized the music as boring compared to earlier games, indicating that the soundtrack did not meet the high expectations set by its predecessors. These criticisms suggest that while the overall sound experience is commendable, there are notable shortcomings that detract from its impact. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Batman: Arkham Knight features a strong sound design and music that significantly enhance the gaming experience. Most reviewers, including those from GameSpot and Impulsegamer, recognized the effective combination of voice acting, sound effects, and music in creating an immersive atmosphere. While there are criticisms regarding the inconsistency in voice performances and the soundtrack's ability to stand out compared to earlier entries, the majority of opinions reflect a positive reception, indicating that the game's audio elements contribute meaningfully to its overall success.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Batman: Arkham Knight features stellar voice acting, with Kevin Conroy's iconic Batman and John Noble's menacing Scarecrow stealing the show. Critics praise the performances as "brilliant" and "outstanding," enhancing the game's immersive experience. However, some minor roles, like street thugs and Commissioner Gordon's early moments, received criticism for lackluster delivery and inconsistency. Overall, the strong performances of the main cast significantly elevate the game's narrative.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

74%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

26%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Batman: Arkham Knight has garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the performances of the main cast. Kevin Conroy's portrayal of Batman continues to be celebrated, with critics like ActionTrip and IGN highlighting his iconic voice as a defining feature of the character. John Noble's performance as Scarecrow has also received significant praise, with critics such as GameCrate and The Digital Fix noting his ability to convey menace and depth. Other notable performances include Jonathan Banks as Commissioner Gordon, who was commended for his grizzled interpretation, particularly by Gamestyle and Quarter to Three. Overall, the voice acting was described as "brilliant" and "outstanding," contributing to the immersive experience of the game. Despite the overall positive reception, there were some criticisms regarding certain aspects of the voice acting. Gamer.no pointed out that while the main characters received strong performances, the voice acting for minor roles, particularly street thugs, felt uninspired. Additionally, NZGamer criticized Commissioner Gordon's performance in the game's opening moments for lacking emotion and suffering from poor lip-synching. Some critics, like Worth Playing, expressed that the voice acting quality varied, with some villains delivering fantastic performances while others detracted from the scenes. This inconsistency in voice acting quality was echoed by Shacknews, which noted that supporting characters like Gordon and Oracle were hit-or-miss. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Batman: Arkham Knight features a strong voice acting cast that enhances the game's narrative and character development. While there are notable shortcomings in some minor roles and specific performances, the majority of reviewers agree that the leading characters are portrayed effectively, with many calling the performances "stellar" and "pitch-perfect." The game is seen as a testament to the importance of voice acting in creating an engaging and immersive gaming experience, with critics such as Hardcore Gamer and Push Square emphasizing how the voice work contributes significantly to the overall enjoyment of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Batman: Arkham Knight shines on PS4, praised for smooth performance and minor glitches, while the PC version flopped, plagued by severe technical issues and a disastrous launch. Xbox One is more stable but still hits frame rate drops. Overall, PS4 is the clear winner, while the PC version suffers from serious setbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

28%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

20%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Batman: Arkham Knight varies significantly across platforms, with the PlayStation 4 version receiving generally positive feedback. Critics such as ActionTrip and Eurogamer Italy praised the PS4 version for its smooth performance, highlighting that it runs well with only minor frame rate issues during high-speed Batmobile sequences. Many reviewers, including God is a Geek and SpazioGames, noted impressive technical achievements, citing the game as one of the most bug-free experiences on the PS4. Overall, the consensus among PS4 players is that the game delivers a stable and visually appealing experience, with minor glitches that do not detract from the enjoyment. In stark contrast, the PC version of Batman: Arkham Knight has been criticized extensively for its technical shortcomings. GameStar and Shacknews described the launch as disastrous, filled with performance issues such as low frame rates, stuttering, and crashes, leading to the game being temporarily pulled from sale. Critics like The Jimquisition and Softpedia emphasized the severe optimization problems, with many players experiencing significant performance drops even on high-end systems. The Xbox One version also faced its share of criticism, with EGM and X-ONE Magazine UK noting bugs and frame rate drops that affected the overall experience, although it was generally more stable than the PC version. The overall consensus among critics indicates a clear divide in technical performance between platforms. While the PS4 version is largely considered a success, with only minor issues reported by reviewers like Gamer.no and PSX Extreme, the PC version remains a point of contention due to its troubled launch and ongoing performance issues, as highlighted by critics such as PC Gamer and Ragequit.gr. The Xbox One version sits somewhere in the middle, with some reviewers noting stability but also acknowledging frame rate drops that detract from its technical excellence. Thus, while the PS4 version stands out positively, the PC version's performance issues have marred the overall reception of the game across platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Batman: Arkham Knight boasts a wealth of content and engaging side quests, with critics praising its extensive gameplay and meaningful progression systems. However, its replay value is marred by repetitive missions and monotonous gameplay elements, particularly with the Batmobile. While completionists may find it rewarding, many players could be discouraged by the overwhelming volume of content and lack of variety. Ultimately, the game’s replay appeal is mixed—rich in potential but hindered by repetitiveness.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Batman: Arkham Knight is mixed, with several critics highlighting the game's strengths. Many reviewers commend the extensive amount of content available beyond the main narrative, including a variety of side missions, challenges, and collectibles. For instance, IGN and Game Informer emphasize the plethora of side quests and challenges that provide hours of engaging gameplay, while Eurogamer Poland notes that the game offers around 25 hours of gameplay, with interesting side missions and collectibles. Critics like AusGamers and God is a Geek appreciate the meaningful progression system and the New Game+ mode, which encourages players to revisit the game. The detailed open world, filled with activities, is also praised by Atomix, who highlights the quality of the side quests. However, the negative aspects of replay value are also significant. Several critics express concerns about the repetitive nature of some missions and activities. ActionTrip points out that while the open world is expansive, the repetitive mission design may hinder replayability. Similarly, Destructoid mentions that much of the side content feels like busy work, which may detract from the overall experience. Digital Spy and The Jimquisition echo this sentiment, noting that certain gameplay elements, like the Batmobile combat, become monotonous over time. Critics like Game World Navigator Magazine and The Digital Fix also mention that while there are many side activities, the sheer volume can lead to a feeling of being overwhelmed, potentially discouraging players from fully engaging with the content. In conclusion, the consensus among critics indicates that while Batman: Arkham Knight offers a wealth of content and engaging side quests that can enhance replay value, the repetitive nature of some gameplay elements and mission designs may limit long-term enjoyment. Reviewers such as Gaming Nexus and Metro GameCentral appreciate the seamless integration of side missions into the main narrative, but others, like GameCrate and The Jimquisition, caution that the lack of surprises and the feeling of déjà vu could detract from the overall replay experience. Ultimately, the game is seen as a rewarding experience for completionists, but it may not hold the same appeal for players seeking varied gameplay throughout their journey.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

82%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Batman: Arkham Knight among critics is predominantly positive, with many praising its gameplay mechanics, visual design, and the immersive experience it offers to players. Critics like IGN and God is a Geek highlighted the game as an outstanding entry in the franchise, citing its non-stop variety and incredible storytelling. The game is often described as a fitting conclusion to Rocksteady's trilogy, with critics such as We Got This Covered and Gaming Nexus acknowledging its fan service and attention to detail. The refined combat system and the engaging stealth mechanics were also commended, with GameSpot noting that the game delivers a satisfying return to Gotham. The graphics received high praise across the board, with multiple reviewers recognizing the visual achievements of the game. However, despite the praise, several critics pointed out notable flaws that detract from the overall experience. The overemphasis on the Batmobile was a recurring criticism, with reviewers like PCWorld and Shacknews suggesting that it undermines the game's potential and leads to a muddled experience. The story was also a point of contention; while some found it engaging, others, like The Escapist and GameWatcher, criticized it for being predictable or lacking depth. Additionally, technical issues, particularly with the PC version, were highlighted by GameStar and Softpedia, impacting the game's overall reception and leading to a lower score compared to its predecessors. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Batman: Arkham Knight is a very good game that successfully builds upon the foundations of its predecessors while offering a thrilling experience for fans of the franchise. While there are significant criticisms regarding the Batmobile mechanics and the story's execution, the majority of reviewers, including those from Multiplayer.it and PlayStation LifeStyle, regard it as a worthy addition to the series. Many critics agree that it stands out as one of the best comic book video games, with a strong recommendation for both fans and newcomers alike. Overall, the game is celebrated for its ambition and technical prowess, despite its shortcomings.

TL;DR

Batman: Arkham Knight is a largely praised game, celebrated for its gameplay, visuals, and immersive storytelling, marking a strong conclusion to Rocksteady's trilogy. Critics commend the refined combat and engaging stealth mechanics, calling it one of the best comic book games. However, the heavy reliance on the Batmobile and a sometimes predictable story have drawn criticism, alongside technical issues on PC that affected its reception. Overall, it's a thrilling experience recommended for fans and newcomers, despite notable flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

164 reviews found

100

Polygon

PlayStation 4

Jun 19, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review states that Batman: Arkham Knight is the best game of this console generation and that it has perfected the Batman experience. It also mentions that it is the last Batman game from Rocksteady.

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100

VideoGamer

PlayStation 4

Jun 19, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is described as a masterpiece and the best Batman game ever made. It is praised for its impact, addictive nature, and being remembered for a long time to come.

100

Digital Spy

PlayStation 4

Jun 29, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Batman: Arkham Knight is a fitting conclusion to the trilogy, combining classic heroes and villains with six years of work. It is the definitive Dark Knight offering that fans deserve.

100

AusGamers

PlayStation 4

Jun 19, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is described as one of the most complete and perfect games ever played. It is engaging, challenging, and delivers in every aspect. It is recommended for Batman fans and even those who are not fans.

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100

God is a Geek

PlayStation 4

Jun 19, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review states that this is the best game the reviewer has played so far this year and one of the best comic-book games ever made. It is described as an incredible story, visuals, and voice acting, with a fitting end to a phenomenal trilogy.

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100

Impulsegamer

PlayStation 4

Jun 28, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Batman Arkham Knight is a flawless Batman experience that surpasses its predecessors and sets a high standard for future superhero games.

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100

Attack of the Fanboy

PlayStation 4

Jun 22, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review praises the game's visual presentation, gameplay, and storytelling, and states that it captures the essence of Batman perfectly. It applauds Rocksteady Studios for their work.

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100

Twinfinite

PlayStation 4

Jun 27, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer loves the game despite divided opinions from critics.

100

Guardian

PlayStation 4

Jun 25, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Arkham Knight is a resounding delight and an exemplary superhero experience, with a rare misjudgment in expanding the gameplay.

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COGconnected

PlayStation 4

Jul 1, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Batman: Arkham Knight is the best Batman game and the best superhero game to date, despite some issues with the Batmobile missions and focus on the Knight's militia in sidequests.

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