Batman Arkham Origins: The Newest Addition to the Arkhamverse
Chandler Kilgore-Parshall ’16 / Emtertainment Monthly Staff
It is only a matter of days until Batman: Arkham Origins comes out for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii U, and Microsoft Windows. We were treated to a new and lengthy video that showcases the story, the characters and all the things you can do in Arkham Origins. Senior Producer Ben Mattes and Gameplay Director Michael McIntyre demonstrate why this upcoming game is a brand new and exciting third entry to the Arkhamverse.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7wIa8u_GA0&w=420&h=315]
Based on what is seen in the footage, WB Montreal has delivered their promise on maintaining the successful formula that both Arkham Asylum and Arkham City had with smooth combat systems and astounding stealth gameplay. Previous game developers, Rocksteady, should be extremely proud that this team of visionaries has brought something new while keeping the series’ roots intact. Batman glides throughout the city of Gotham with fluidity and pounces at his prey below with menacing presence; just like in the old games. When it comes to sneaking in the shadows and silently picking off foes, the Caped Crusader is still armed with his traditional gear: Batarangs, Grapple Hooks, Concussion Disruptors and more.
Related: NYCC 2013: Batman Arkham Origins Panel
The developers emphasized the importance that Arkham Origins’ narrative looks at an unrefined Batman as he searches for the villain Black Mask, while fending off the eight assassins after his head. The relationships between Batman and his friends and enemies have not been fully fleshed out yet at this chronological point of the series. But to be honest, nothing felt different. Batman has always had a thick emotional guard up when he dons on the cape and cowl, and barely let anyone, both friend and foe alike, close to him. Batman fights the war on crime alone. So how will Origins develop this superhero’s character? Only time will tell. With so many odds pit against him, this game will show how Batman became the legendary and intuitive superhero that he is.
This new footage also revealed the identities of the last two assassins in the game: Lady Shiva and Killer Croc. Lady Shiva has a been a long awaited addition to the roster. Known as Sandra Wu San to the more familiarized DC fans, this woman is known for besting Batman in single combat consistently. Barbara Gordon once described her as this: “Her hobby is hunting down the best fighters in the world and beating them to death with her bare hands.” It’ll be interesting to see how she fits into the gameplay.
Arkham Origins comes out on Friday, October 25th. As a diehard fan, I can’t wait to return to the Batman lore once again and play as the Dark Knight during his early career. Stay posted on Emtertainment Monthly for my review on Batman Arkham Origins in the upcoming week.