How to Play Batman Arkham Games in Order: A Journey Through Gotham's Shadows and Beyond

The Batman Arkham series is a critically acclaimed collection of action-adventure games that have redefined the superhero genre in gaming. Developed by Rocksteady Studios and WB Games Montréal, the series offers a deep dive into the dark and complex world of Batman, featuring intricate storytelling, immersive gameplay, and a richly detailed Gotham City. If you’re new to the series or looking to revisit it, playing the games in the correct order can enhance your experience, allowing you to follow the narrative arc and character development more cohesively. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to play the Batman Arkham games in order, along with some unconventional thoughts on how the series might inspire you to rethink your approach to life’s challenges.

1. Batman: Arkham Origins (2013)

Release Order: Although Arkham Origins was released after Arkham Asylum and Arkham City, it serves as a prequel to the entire series. Set on Christmas Eve, the game explores a younger, less experienced Batman as he faces off against eight deadly assassins hired by Black Mask to kill him.
Why Start Here? Playing Arkham Origins first provides context for Batman’s early career, his relationships with key characters like Alfred and Commissioner Gordon, and the origins of his rivalry with the Joker. It sets the stage for the events that unfold in the subsequent games.
Gameplay: The game introduces players to the free-flow combat system and detective mode, which are refined in later titles. It also features a larger, more open Gotham City, giving players a taste of the expansive environments to come.

2. Batman: Arkham Asylum (2009)

Release Order: Arkham Asylum is the first game in the series and a great starting point for those who prefer to experience the story in release order. The game takes place entirely within the confines of Arkham Asylum, where Batman must thwart the Joker’s plans to take over the facility.
Why Play This Next? Arkham Asylum establishes the core gameplay mechanics, including combat, stealth, and detective work, that are expanded upon in later games. It also introduces players to the psychological depth of Batman’s world, with a strong focus on the Joker and other iconic villains.
Gameplay: The game’s linear structure allows for a more focused narrative, with a heavy emphasis on atmosphere and tension. The Scarecrow sequences, in particular, are standout moments that showcase the game’s ability to blend horror with action.

3. Batman: Arkham City (2011)

Release Order: Arkham City is the direct sequel to Arkham Asylum and expands the scope of the series significantly. The game is set in a walled-off section of Gotham City that has been turned into a massive prison, where Batman must uncover the mystery behind Hugo Strange’s “Protocol 10.”
Why Play This Next? Arkham City builds on the foundation laid by Arkham Asylum, offering a larger open world, more complex side missions, and a deeper dive into Batman’s rogues’ gallery. The game also introduces new gameplay elements, such as the ability to glide and use gadgets in more creative ways.
Gameplay: The game’s open-world design allows for greater exploration and player freedom, with a variety of side quests and collectibles to discover. The story is more ambitious, with multiple plot threads and a shocking conclusion that sets the stage for the next game.

4. Batman: Arkham Knight (2015)

Release Order: Arkham Knight is the final installment in the main series and serves as the conclusion to the story arc that began in Arkham Asylum. The game takes place one year after the events of Arkham City, with Gotham City under siege by the mysterious Arkham Knight and his army.
Why Play This Last? Arkham Knight brings the series to a dramatic and emotional conclusion, tying up loose ends and resolving the central conflicts. The game also introduces the Batmobile, adding a new layer of gameplay and strategy.
Gameplay: The game features the largest and most detailed version of Gotham City yet, with a focus on vehicular combat and traversal. The story is darker and more personal, with Batman facing his greatest fears and making difficult choices.

5. Batman: Arkham VR (2016)

Release Order: Arkham VR is a virtual reality experience that takes place between Arkham City and Arkham Knight. While not a full-fledged game, it offers a unique perspective on the Batman universe, allowing players to step into the Dark Knight’s shoes and solve a mystery involving the Joker.
Why Play This? Arkham VR is a short but immersive experience that provides a different way to engage with the Batman mythos. It’s a great addition for fans who want to explore the world of Gotham in a more intimate and interactive way.
Gameplay: The game focuses on puzzle-solving and exploration, with a strong emphasis on atmosphere and storytelling. It’s a must-play for VR enthusiasts and those looking for a deeper connection to the Batman universe.

6. Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate (2013)

Release Order: Arkham Origins Blackgate is a companion game to Arkham Origins, released for handheld consoles and later ported to other platforms. The game is set three months after Arkham Origins and follows Batman as he investigates a riot at Blackgate Prison.
Why Play This? While not essential to the main series, Arkham Origins Blackgate offers additional context and backstory, particularly regarding Batman’s early encounters with Catwoman and other villains. It’s a good choice for those who want a more complete picture of Batman’s early years.
Gameplay: The game features a 2.5D perspective, blending side-scrolling action with exploration and puzzle-solving. It’s a more condensed experience compared to the mainline games but still offers plenty of Batman action.

7. Batman: Arkham Underworld (2016)

Release Order: Arkham Underworld is a mobile game that allows players to build and manage their own criminal empire in Gotham City. While not part of the main series, it offers a different perspective on the Batman universe, focusing on the villains rather than the Dark Knight himself.
Why Play This? Arkham Underworld is a fun diversion for fans who want to explore the criminal side of Gotham. It’s a lighthearted take on the series, with a focus on strategy and resource management.
Gameplay: The game features base-building mechanics, with players recruiting and upgrading villains to carry out missions. It’s a casual experience that complements the more intense action of the mainline games.

8. Batman: Arkham Collection (2019)

Release Order: The Arkham Collection is a remastered bundle of Arkham Asylum, Arkham City, and Arkham Knight, released for modern consoles. It’s the perfect way to experience the entire series in one package, with improved graphics and performance.
Why Play This? The Arkham Collection is ideal for newcomers or those looking to revisit the series with enhanced visuals and smoother gameplay. It’s a comprehensive way to experience the entire Batman Arkham saga.
Gameplay: The collection includes all the DLC and additional content for each game, offering the most complete version of the series. It’s a great value for fans and a convenient way to play the games in order.

9. Batman: Arkham Legacy (Rumored)

Release Order: While not officially confirmed, rumors of a new game titled Batman: Arkham Legacy have been circulating. If true, it could serve as a continuation or reboot of the series, potentially introducing new characters and storylines.
Why Play This? If Arkham Legacy is released, it could offer a fresh take on the Batman universe, with new gameplay mechanics and a different narrative direction. It’s something to look forward to for fans of the series.
Gameplay: Details are scarce, but if the rumors are true, Arkham Legacy could build on the foundation of the previous games while introducing new elements to keep the series fresh and exciting.

10. Batman: Arkham Beyond (Speculative)

Release Order: Another speculative title, Batman: Arkham Beyond, could explore the future of Gotham City, potentially featuring a new Batman or a continuation of Bruce Wayne’s legacy. While purely hypothetical, it’s an exciting possibility for the series.
Why Play This? Arkham Beyond could offer a bold new direction for the series, with a focus on the next generation of heroes and villains. It’s a concept that could breathe new life into the franchise.
Gameplay: If developed, Arkham Beyond could introduce new gameplay mechanics, such as time travel or alternate realities, offering a fresh experience for players.

Conclusion

The Batman Arkham series is a masterclass in storytelling, gameplay, and world-building, offering players a chance to step into the shoes of the Dark Knight and experience the trials and triumphs of Gotham’s protector. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned fan, playing the games in order—starting with Arkham Origins and ending with Arkham Knight—will provide a cohesive and immersive journey through Batman’s world. And who knows? The series might just inspire you to face your own challenges with the same determination and resilience as the Caped Crusader.

Q: Can I skip Arkham Origins and start with Arkham Asylum? A: Yes, you can start with Arkham Asylum if you prefer to follow the release order. However, playing Arkham Origins first provides valuable context for Batman’s early career and his relationships with key characters.

Q: Is Arkham VR necessary to understand the main story? A: No, Arkham VR is not essential to the main story. It’s a standalone experience that offers a unique perspective on the Batman universe but doesn’t significantly impact the overarching narrative.

Q: Are the mobile games like Arkham Underworld worth playing? A: Arkham Underworld is a fun diversion for fans who want to explore the criminal side of Gotham, but it’s not necessary to enjoy the main series. It’s more of a casual, strategy-based game.

Q: Will there be more Batman Arkham games in the future? A: While nothing has been officially confirmed, rumors of new games like Arkham Legacy and Arkham Beyond suggest that the series may continue in some form. Fans will have to wait for official announcements from Rocksteady or WB Games.

Q: What is the best way to experience the series for the first time? A: The best way to experience the series for the first time is to play the games in chronological order: Arkham Origins, Arkham Asylum, Arkham City, and Arkham Knight. This will allow you to follow the narrative arc and character development more cohesively.