Is Rocksteady’s Batman Beyond the Fresh Start Fans Have Been Craving?

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Known for creating the acclaimed Batman: Arkham trilogy, Rocksteady Studios appears to be seeking a new beginning. Although the company has faced criticism in the past, it was widely regarded as an esteemed and gifted studio, producing some of the most impactful AAA games over the last decade. However, the positive reputation built up over this time was quickly overshadowed with the release of Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, a game that has left a negative mark on the Arkhamverse for numerous gamers.

It’s been buzzing around that Rocksteady might be developing a Batman Beyond game, exciting news for fans who have longed for this concept. However, it remains undetermined how this hypothetical game will tie into the Batman: Arkham series, as Batman Beyond initially stemmed from an animated series with its own continuity. In the original Batman Beyond storyline, Terry McGinnis assumes the role of Batman in a future Gotham City, with Bruce Wayne acting as a mentor rather than the Caped Crusader himself. Given that Bruce Wayne dies in the Arkhamverse, it seems likely that this rumored game would be set in a different universe altogether.

Speculations regarding a “Batman Beyond” game are currently unverified, however, it’s important to mention that job postings from Rocksteady Studios suggest they are developing an open-world brawler, which aligns with the style of the “Batman: Arkham” series.

Batman Beyond Offers the Perfect Blank Slate for Rocksteady

Rocksteady Can Leave the Spoiled Arkhamverse Behind

It’s questionable whether the Arkhamverse can be labeled as “ruined” due to Suicide Squad, but it’s undeniably challenging to predict where the series might head from this point. Even if Batman were to reappear via multiverse manipulations, Lazarus Pit spells, or some other story device, a significant number of key characters in the Batman legend have either perished or been drained of their potential after spending so much time in the Arkhamverse. Therefore, even if Rocksteady were to create a sequel to Suicide Squad with Batman as the lead character, there would be so many changes needed that it might as well feel like an entirely new universe.

Fans of comic books often encounter non-linear storytelling, especially when it comes to series like Flashpoint from DC or Marvel’s multiverse tales. These narratives can explore strange and unconventional concepts. This type of flexibility in adhering to established lore should also be present in video games, such as the Batman games developed by Rocksteady. In these instances, a fresh perspective on Batman, both the character and the franchise, could be introduced. This might involve a new premise or main character taking center stage.

A fresh take on Gotham City, its villains, and its allies could all be enticing aspects of a potential reboot of Batman Beyond by Rocksteady. While fans have developed a strong affection for the Arkhamverse, it’s not unreasonable to think that similar affection could be cultivated for a new take on the Batman series. In essence, starting anew might be more beneficial than trying to restore the Arkhamverse to its former glory.

A Batman Beyond Spin-Off Could Respect Kevin Conroy’s Legacy

Kevin Conroy, known for voicing Batman in various series like the Arkham games, sadly passed away from intestinal cancer in 2022. His last role as Batman was in Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League. Given his passing, it’s unlikely he will play Batman again. A new version of Batman, modeled after Terry McGinnis, could bridge the gap between Conroy and a potential successor, honoring Conroy’s long-standing role as Batman’s voice in the Dark Knight universe.

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2025-02-23 00:35