If you’re a regular reader here on XBox 360 Digest, then you know of my well documented excitement over the release of Batman: Arkham Asylum. Well I finally got around to downloading the demo and playing through it. I can tell you right away it pretty much lived up to all my expectations. I’ll be brief, as I’m waiting for the full release to give you a detailed review.
While combat is streamlined with very simple controls, the potential for freeflow combat is very high. Chaining together combos in a crowd is very smooth and makes fighting a blast. There are also various takedowns and counters that you can employ in conjunction with your striking. The demo didn’t allow for full use of Batman’s arsenal, but it provided a nice preview of what is available.
Stalking enemies and silently taking them down one by one allows for limitless possibilities on how you approach a given situation. Since a lot of this game is based on stealth mechanics, sneaking up on enemies and performing silent takedowns, usually a chokeout, will be used a lot. Of course there are also a number of other ways to bash some henchmen skull in. I must admit, singling out a lone guard and gliding down and drop kicking him is extremely satisfying. However, you can always take the direct approach, but that is never really smart against armed guards. What would the fun be in that when you can swoop down, choke an enemy out and leave them dangling in mid-air for his buddies to find? The AI also appears to be very well programmed as guards did not always stick on the same path, but diverged and reacted to different situations.
So what are you waiting for? Get your order in now.
[...] long anticipated, Batman: Arkham Asylum, is available today. Previewed by your truly here, make sure you pick up your copy! Expect an in-depth review within the [...]
There seemed to be a good amount of variety on the slow motion finishes. I just hope they don't overkill it every time you get into a fight.
Graphically, this game is the cat's pajamas. Just beautiful! I was surprised that the fighting system, though simple, was very satisfying indeed. I just hope that there a lot of different slow motion finishes, so that I don't get bored. I wasn't going to pay much attention to this one, because most mainstream comic games don't offer much in the way of innovation. But, the demo makes me wonder what other tricks this game has up it's sleeve. Definite purchase!
just finished the demo and i'll definately be picking this up. The character and level design is enough to warrant a peak at the demo. I agree with Allen, take downs of unsuspecting armed baddies is very satfisfying.