Best Playable Characters in the Batman Arkham Games

As someone who’s spent countless hours in the shadows of Gotham City, I’ve had the pleasure of controlling some truly iconic characters in the Batman: Arkham series. But if I were to pick my favorite, it would have to be the Dark Knight himself, Batman.

The Batman Arkham series doesn’t limit players to controlling only Batman as the protagonist; instead, it offers an opportunity to explore various DC characters throughout different games. This includes both Batman’s loyal allies from the Bat-Family and his formidable adversaries in the Rogues Gallery, showcasing their unique skills and combat styles.

Check out all the playable characters featured in the Arkham series down below. You might find it intriguing to observe the unique differences among them in terms of gameplay mechanics and fighting styles. Plus, I’ve got some tips on how you can try out these combatants for yourself!

10. Harley Quinn

A Baseball Bat Wielding Yapper

Playable in: Batman: Arkham Knight

In the development of Harley Quinn’s character, the Arkham games play a significant role. A key aspect of this comes from her speech patterns, as she tends to talk excessively without knowing when to stop. During combat sequences, Harley’s dialogues are repetitive, and despite the smooth combat mechanics in Batman: Arkham Knight, Harley’s fighting style doesn’t gain much from it.

Harley’s devices aren’t impressive, and they don’t help much in confrontations with predators, especially since she can’t perform silent takedowns to remain unnoticed, and the absence of a grappling hook limits her mobility, keeping her grounded. Regarding her fighting style, Harley doesn’t gain much advantage from her unique abilities, as they seem more for entertainment than practical combat maneuvers.

9. The Joker

An Exclusive PS3 DLC That Has Funny Gimmicks to Fight With

Playable in: Batman: Arkham Asylum

Arkham Asylum for PS3 included The Joker as a playable character. Although some computer users have managed to access this content, the majority of players on other platforms missed out on enjoying the Joker’s distinctive movements and gadgets that set him apart as an eccentric character to control.

Although the Joker provides initial amusement, what truly makes playing Batman exceptional is something he’s missing. The stealthy interactions for him are challenging, and his gadgets lean more towards tricks than practical tools, with the exception of a single-shot revolver that instantly kills whoever it strikes. His moveset features humorous animations, making Joker an enjoyable character to control. However, he seems to lack substantial utility beyond some challenge modes.

8. Catwoman

The Seductive Thief Who Fights With Whip and Claw

Playable in: Batman: Arkham City, Batman: Arkham Knight

In the games “Batman: Arkham City” and “Batman: Arkham Knight”, Catwoman’s gameplay is derived. However, not all fans are fond of her stages because she has a limited selection of tools at her disposal. Catwoman’s fondness for gadgets is evident in the use of her caltrops, which temporarily incapacitate enemies, making them vulnerable to attack. This is crucial for Catwoman as her stealth skills aren’t particularly strong.

On ceiling surfaces she can stealthily move, yet due to a short reach, many interactions are missing the edge for hunter scenarios. In combat, Catwoman’s style has a bit of seductive flair, and an excessive amount of time is dedicated to feigned kisses before takedowns, resulting in intricate animations that might not always be strategic. The main enjoyable aspect of playing as Catwoman lies in her whip attacks, which grant temporary stunning abilities, though these don’t completely offset her sluggish fighting tempo.

7. Nightwing

A Fast-Hitting Acrobat That Fights With Escrima Sticks

Playable in: Batman: Arkham City Batman: Arkham Knight

Nightwing’s gameplay is enhanced by his background as an acrobat, allowing him to move swiftly and gracefully, leaping over adversaries with agility and striking them senseless with his dual-wielding escrima sticks. The combat offers a great deal of enjoyable fluidity due to these abilities and their electric shock function.

In contrast to Batman’s punches, Nightwing’s fighting style is distinct due to his dual-sticked eskrima technique. However, it’s his predator-inspired gadgetry that truly sets him apart. With wrist-mounted darts capable of instant knockouts when a tricky headshot is landed, Nightwing demonstrates his unique skill set.

6. Azrael

Identical to Batman’s Combat Style, Except He Can’t Glide

Playable in: Batman: Arkham Knight

In the game Batman: Arkham Knight, players might quickly appreciate Azrael’s combat style since it mirrors Batman’s. However, this similarity, though not entirely negative, slightly diminishes the experience because it essentially amounts to a duplicate with a new costume. It would have been intriguing to observe how Azrael’s Templar training and potential as a future protector of Gotham City would have manifested in combat style.

Azrael may appreciate the fight techniques and multiple-takedowns that Batman often uses, yet he’s missing out on some advanced gadgetry, and can’t soar through the air like Batman does. This means that certain predator encounters might be a bit more challenging compared to playing challenge maps as Batman.

5. Batgirl

Fights Like Batman, With a Higher Reliance on Gadgets

Playable in: Batman: Arkham Knight

In essence, Batgirl shares many similarities with Batman in gameplay within the “Batman: Arkham Knight” game, though they’re not identical, more like distinct characters using the same basic template. This isn’t necessarily a negative point given how effectively Batman performs in the game. However, it’s worth noting that Batgirl has some drawbacks, such as her inability to perform multiple takedowns for stealth sections due to her absence of fear.

Although Batgirl’s initial gameplay appears similar to Arkham Knight’s version of Batman, she manages to stand out due to the release of the DLC, “Batgirl: A Matter of Family.” This story serves as a prequel and sets up her character nicely. Moreover, Batgirl excels on her own by utilizing additional gadgets and relying heavily on her hacking skills, which would eventually become significant during her tenure as Oracle.

4. Deathstroke

The Terminator Who Can Heal In Combat and Use An Assortment of Gadgets

Playable in: Batman: Arkham Origins

For many DC Comics enthusiasts, Deathstroke has consistently been a captivating character. Consequently, having the opportunity to embody this formidable assassin in “Batman: Arkham Origins” is an exciting prospect. This becomes even more enticing following a thrilling boss battle against him. Players will undoubtedly be intrigued to explore Deathstroke’s professional exploits when he isn’t confronting a foe as formidable as Batman.

Deathstroke’s tools and tricks are quite entertaining, with his remote claw adding an exciting twist to predator contests. Talking about predator challenges, Deathstroke possesses passive healing capabilities that come in handy during battles, and although his staff fighting style makes him a more deliberate fighter, it also amplifies his formidable power.

3. Red Hood

Shoot Everyone With Dual-Wielding Pistols

Playable in: Batman: Arkham Knight

It turns out that not having a cape and specialized gadgets can be advantageous when playing as Red Hood in his challenge maps. Unlike other characters, Red Hood stands out with a unique gadget: dual-wielding pistols. These pistols allow players to neutralize enemies, instantly kill them, or deal swift damage through rapid-fire rounds, but it’s essential to be aware that this comes at the cost of exposing yourself to attack due to Red Hood’s vulnerable stance while using them.

Playing Red Hood, whose ruthless murders make him an unforgettable character, allows for full-throttle action where you can execute neck snaps or gunshots to the head, demonstrating the character’s brutal nature. Engaging in these violent acts up close gives a thrilling and enjoyable experience.

2. Robin

Unique Gadgets and a Bo Staff Make Robin an Interesting Fighter

Playable in: Batman: Arkham City, Batman: Arkham Knight

Robin’s battles share similarities with Batman’s, but there’s a greater focus on amusement rather than raw power. Robin’s gadgetry plays a crucial role in his arsenal of enjoyable tools, and his zip kick grapple gun is a prime example – instead of pulling an adversary towards him, he can propel himself towards them to deliver a powerful kick. Quick maneuvers like these are characteristic of Robin, making him delightful and dynamic during combat situations.

Is Robin’s collection of moves entertaining? Absolutely! With his snap-flash sending foes flying and bullet shield knocking them off their feet, it’s a joy to watch. Not to mention, his bo staff that can strike multiple adversaries at once. There’s plenty of intricacy in Robin’s attacks, and although he may not be as formidable as the Dark Knight, it’s easy to understand why he’s earned the title of protégé.

1. Batman

Free-Flowing Combat and a Mastery of Gadgets Shows Why Batman is the Best

Playable in: Batman: Arkham Asylum, Batman: Arkham City, Batman: Arkham Origins, Batman: Arkham Knight

In the progression from Batman: Arkham Asylum to Batman: Arkham Knight, it’s clear that Batman stands out as the premier playable character in his video game franchise. He consistently receives the most development, and this is evident in every game, where his combat is both swift and forceful. Additionally, players are given the opportunity to perfect his fighting technique by introducing new tools and gadgets into the mix.

Each “Batman Arkham” game places Batman at the forefront, granting additional skills and abilities that are delightful to explore. Without Batman leading the way, the heroes prior to this installment would not have existed. His combat style is swift and seamless, making landing critical strikes a satisfying experience with every Square/X tap, and this will remain enjoyable for many years even after the conclusion.

2024-12-27 02:35