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, these games offer a deep dive into the dark and complex world of Batman, blending intense combat, intricate storytelling, and immersive environments. To fully appreciate the narrative and gameplay evolution, it’s essential to play the games in the correct order. This guide will walk you through the sequence, offering insights into each installment and how they contribute to the overarching story.

1. Batman: Arkham Origins (2013)

Release Order: Although released after Arkham Asylum and Arkham City, Arkham Origins serves as a prequel to the series.
Storyline: Set five years before Arkham Asylum, the game follows a younger, less experienced Batman as he faces a gauntlet of assassins hired by Black Mask to kill him on Christmas Eve. The game introduces key characters like the Joker, who becomes a central figure in the series, and explores Batman’s early relationships with allies like Commissioner Gordon and Alfred.
Gameplay: Arkham Origins refines the combat and detective mechanics established in the previous games, offering a more polished experience. The game also introduces the “Crime Scene Reconstruction” feature, allowing players to piece together events by analyzing evidence.
Why Play First: Playing Arkham Origins first provides context for Batman’s evolution and his relationships with key characters, setting the stage for the events of Arkham Asylum.

2. Batman: Arkham Asylum (2009)

Release Order: The first game in the series, Arkham Asylum sets the foundation for the Arkham universe.
Storyline: The game begins with Batman escorting the Joker to Arkham Asylum, only for the Joker to orchestrate a massive breakout, taking over the facility. Batman must navigate the asylum’s twisted corridors, facing off against iconic villains like Scarecrow, Poison Ivy, and Killer Croc.
Gameplay: Arkham Asylum introduces the series’ signature Freeflow Combat system, which allows for fluid, combo-driven combat. The game also emphasizes stealth and detective work, with Batman using gadgets and his wits to outsmart enemies.
Why Play Next: Arkham Asylum establishes the core gameplay mechanics and introduces players to the dark, atmospheric world of the Arkham series. It’s a perfect starting point for newcomers and a nostalgic return for veterans.

3. Batman: Arkham City (2011)

Release Order: The second game in the series, Arkham City builds on the success of Arkham Asylum.
Storyline: Set one year after Arkham Asylum, the game takes place in Arkham City, a sprawling prison complex in the heart of Gotham. Batman must navigate the dangerous streets, facing off against a host of villains, including Two-Face, the Penguin, and Hugo Strange. The game’s narrative is more expansive, with multiple side missions and a deeper exploration of Batman’s psyche.
Gameplay: Arkham City expands on the combat and stealth mechanics of its predecessor, introducing new gadgets and abilities. The game also features a larger open world, allowing for more exploration and player freedom.
Why Play Next: Arkham City is a natural progression from Arkham Asylum, offering a more complex story and refined gameplay. It’s a must-play for fans of the series and a high point in the Arkham saga.

4. Batman: Arkham Knight (2015)

Release Order: The final game in the main series, Arkham Knight concludes Batman’s story in the Arkham universe.
Storyline: Set nine months after Arkham City, the game sees Gotham City under siege by the Scarecrow and the mysterious Arkham Knight. Batman must confront his greatest fears and face off against a host of villains, including the Joker, who continues to haunt him from beyond the grave.
Gameplay: Arkham Knight introduces the Batmobile, adding a new layer of gameplay with vehicular combat and traversal. The game also features a more refined combat system, with new gadgets and abilities that allow for more creative takedowns.
Why Play Last: Arkham Knight serves as the culmination of the series, tying together the narrative threads from the previous games and delivering a satisfying conclusion to Batman’s journey.

5. Batman: Arkham VR (2016)

Release Order: A spin-off from the main series, Arkham VR offers a unique, immersive experience.
Storyline: Set between Arkham City and Arkham Knight, the game follows Batman as he investigates the disappearance of Nightwing and Robin. The narrative is more intimate, focusing on Batman’s detective skills and his relationship with his allies.
Gameplay: Arkham VR is a virtual reality experience that allows players to step into the shoes of Batman, using VR controllers to interact with the environment and solve puzzles. The game emphasizes exploration and detective work, offering a different perspective on the Arkham universe.
Why Play After Arkham Knight: While not essential to the main storyline, Arkham VR provides a unique, immersive experience that complements the main series. It’s best enjoyed after completing the core games.

6. Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate (2013)

Release Order: A companion game to Arkham Origins, Blackgate is a 2.5D action-adventure game.
Storyline: Set three months after Arkham Origins, the game follows Batman as he investigates a riot at Blackgate Prison. The game features a non-linear narrative, with players choosing which areas of the prison to explore and which villains to confront.
Gameplay: Blackgate combines elements of the main series with a side-scrolling perspective, offering a different gameplay experience. The game features combat, stealth, and puzzle-solving, with a focus on exploration and player choice.
Why Play After Arkham Origins: Blackgate expands on the events of Arkham Origins, offering additional context and a different gameplay experience. It’s a worthwhile addition for fans of the series.

7. Batman: Arkham Underworld (2016)

Release Order: A mobile spin-off, Arkham Underworld offers a different take on the Arkham universe.
Storyline: The game allows players to take on the role of a Gotham City crime lord, building and managing their own criminal empire. The game features a host of iconic villains, including the Riddler, Harley Quinn, and the Scarecrow.
Gameplay: Arkham Underworld is a strategy game that focuses on base-building and resource management. Players can recruit henchmen, build hideouts, and engage in battles with rival gangs.
Why Play After the Main Series: Arkham Underworld offers a different perspective on the Arkham universe, allowing players to explore the criminal underworld. It’s a fun diversion for fans of the series.

8. Batman: Arkham City Lockdown (2011)

Release Order: A mobile spin-off, Arkham City Lockdown is a fighting game set in the Arkham universe.
Storyline: The game follows Batman as he battles his way through Arkham City, facing off against iconic villains like the Joker, Bane, and Deathstroke.
Gameplay: Arkham City Lockdown is a touch-based fighting game that focuses on one-on-one combat. Players can unlock new costumes and abilities as they progress through the game.
Why Play After the Main Series: Arkham City Lockdown offers a different gameplay experience, focusing on combat rather than exploration or detective work. It’s a fun addition for fans of the series.

9. Batman: Arkham Collection (2019)

Release Order: A remastered collection of the main series games, Arkham Collection offers an enhanced experience for new and returning players.
Storyline: The collection includes Arkham Asylum, Arkham City, and Arkham Knight, along with all DLC content. The games have been remastered with improved graphics and performance, offering a more immersive experience.
Gameplay: The collection retains the core gameplay mechanics of the original games, with enhanced visuals and performance. Players can experience the entire Arkham saga in one package, with all the additional content included.
Why Play After the Main Series: The Arkham Collection is the definitive way to experience the Arkham series, offering an enhanced experience for both new and returning players. It’s a must-have for fans of the series.

10. Batman: Arkham Legacy (Rumored)

Release Order: While not officially confirmed, rumors of a new Arkham game, Arkham Legacy, have been circulating.
Storyline: Details are scarce, but the game is rumored to feature a new storyline set in the Arkham universe, with a focus on the Bat-Family.
Gameplay: The game is expected to build on the mechanics of the previous games, with new features and improvements.
Why Play After the Main Series: If Arkham Legacy is released, it will likely continue the story of the Arkham universe, offering new challenges and adventures for players to enjoy.

Conclusion

The Batman Arkham series is a masterclass in storytelling, gameplay, and world-building. By playing the games in the correct order, you can fully appreciate the evolution of Batman’s character and the intricate narrative that ties the series together. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the series, the Arkham games offer an unforgettable journey through the dark and twisted world of Gotham City.

Q: Can I play Batman: Arkham Origins after Arkham Asylum and Arkham City? A: Yes, you can, but playing Arkham Origins first provides valuable context for the events of the later games.

Q: Is Batman: Arkham VR necessary to understand the main series? A: No, Arkham VR is a spin-off and not essential to the main storyline, but it offers a unique, immersive experience.

Q: Are the mobile spin-offs worth playing? A: The mobile spin-offs offer different gameplay experiences and are worth checking out if you’re a fan of the series, but they are not essential to the main storyline.

Q: Should I play the Arkham Collection if I’ve already played the original games? A: The Arkham Collection offers enhanced graphics and performance, making it a worthwhile experience for both new and returning players.

Q: Is there a new Arkham game in development? A: While not officially confirmed, rumors of Batman: Arkham Legacy suggest that a new game may be in development. Keep an eye out for official announcements.