Let's just start by saying that Comic based movies and games have never been done well. They seem to always take good solid characters with plenty of history, change it enough to be consumed by the masses, whilst trying to keep the comic fanbase happy. By trying to appease these 2 audiences, they fail miserably.
Thankfully, this is not what has happened with this game. They have given you the dark and gritty Knight that is the epitomy of what he should be. You play this game that is not only visually apealing but has a good solid gaming foundation to fall back onto.
It is fair to say that while the combat itself is quite simple, there is enough variance and needed combo experimentation in it to sufficiently keep it fresh, as indicated by the inclusion of the additional combat stages you can play outside of the story based gameplay.
That's not to say that the gameplay is straight out combat. Oh no, there is plenty of opportunity in game to stealth your way through, use silent take downs and generally instill fear in the thugs while you silently pick them off from the shadows one at a time.
Then you add to the gameplay the rich diversity of gadgets we have come to love at Batman's disposal, a seemingly infinte supply of batarangs, and other tools you pick up along the way (explosive gel, bat -claw and others) to add to the complexity of the game. Not forgetting to mention Detective mode, where the view changes to allow you to better see, and use, your environment and enemies.
While all the above is just Batman, the villains are just as entertaining. The villains of the Dark Knights career add to the ominous feeling of Arkam Island, and bring their own battles to the forefront. I am trying not to give too much away, but they have done an excellent job of working them into the game without compromising what makes these characters who they are.
The Riddler minigame spread throughout the island is not just pointless 'flag collecting' they give insight on the characters that make up Batman's world and provide plenty of entertainment of their own, and give you an excuse to explore this well thought out and executed game.
Having played it just over 50% through (as the game save indicates) I can say this game is a must for anyone who considers themselves a gamer. If you like Assassins Creed for the freedom, Splinter Cell for the stealth and Bioshock for the diversity, this is one game you should have in your collection.
