Games based on superheroes have pretty much always turned out to be the greatest failures. In 2009 though, a few creators have managed to beat the curse of constant mediocrity and deliver two of the very best super-hero licensed interactive titles we've ever seen; first, Raven came up with the brilliant X-Men Origins - Wolverine and now Rocksteady have managed to deliver the ultimate Batman experience in Arkham Asylum.

Just like the underwater dystopia of Bioshock, Arkham Asylum is a place of wonder and inexplicably treacherous horror. The Victorian architecture blends seamlessly with the most talked about comic book histories, forcing the player to bare witness the abomination of lunacy and death. For the game, the Asylum turns out to be more than just a tourist attraction. It lends character and acts as tone-setter and driving force for the experience.

Batman's legendary detective skills are used in a variety of entertaining ways, such as using high-tech gadgetry to follow DNA trails, or making use of perceptive skills to solve the many Riddler riddles. The free-flow combat mechanics are undoubtedly reVOlutionary, as Bruce Wayne's supreme martial arts skills are showcased in a brutally efficient way.

The free-flow counters, tackles and finishers have been executed in such a masterful way that even with odds such as ten-to-one, Batman manages to wipe the floor clean. Batman's gadgetry is not only confined to combat; it also helps navigation. New Gadgets are unlocked as you progress further and with each kill, you get a certain amount of experience points through which you can upgrade skills, unlock new move¬sets and combat abilities.



The story at the core of this masterpiece fails to evolve much from the Joker taking over the place, but it still manages to dish out several super¬cool sequences and moments. The close characterization of the super¬villains is pretty much spot on for all of them. The visual splendor is just outrageously good, combining gorgeously dark and misty environments along with picture perfect rendition of classic Victorian architec;ture. The sublimely supreme visual quality plays an incredibly critical role when it comes to immersing the player deep into the spotlight and the action.

Batman: Arkham Asylum is a revolutionary gem that holds the power to not only amaze its seekers with its sheer quality and size of offering, but also the depth and the true-to-nature aspect of the Dark Knight himself. With all that it offers, it manages to deliver the Ultimate Batman Experience we've all richly deserved and prayed for.