
The Arkham series, developed by Rocksteady Studios and WB Games Montréal, has become a cornerstone of modern gaming, blending intricate storytelling, immersive gameplay, and a deep respect for the Batman mythos. With multiple entries spanning different timelines and perspectives, the question of “what order to play Arkham games” is not just about chronology but also about experiencing the narrative and gameplay evolution in a way that maximizes enjoyment and understanding. This article explores various perspectives on the ideal order to play these games, considering release order, chronological order, and thematic connections.
1. Release Order: The Developer’s Intended Experience
The most straightforward approach is to play the games in the order they were released. This allows players to experience the evolution of the series as the developers intended, with each game building on the mechanics and storytelling of its predecessor.
- Batman: Arkham Asylum (2009): The game that started it all. Arkham Asylum introduces players to the gritty, atmospheric world of Batman, focusing on a single night of chaos as the Joker takes over the asylum. Its tight, Metroidvania-style design and groundbreaking combat system set the standard for the series.
- Batman: Arkham City (2011): Expanding on the foundation of Asylum, Arkham City opens up the world into a sprawling urban prison. The story delves deeper into Batman’s rogues’ gallery and introduces new gameplay elements like side missions and a more open-world structure.
- Batman: Arkham Origins (2013): A prequel developed by WB Games Montréal, Origins explores a younger, less experienced Batman. While it doesn’t innovate as much as its predecessors, it provides valuable backstory and context for the events of the main series.
- Batman: Arkham Knight (2015): The epic conclusion to Rocksteady’s trilogy, Arkham Knight introduces the Batmobile and a darker, more personal story. It ties up loose ends from the previous games while pushing the boundaries of the series’ gameplay and narrative.
Playing in release order ensures that players appreciate the technical and narrative advancements of each game, making it the recommended approach for first-time players.
2. Chronological Order: A Story-Driven Journey
For those who prioritize narrative coherence, playing the games in chronological order offers a different perspective. This approach places the prequel, Arkham Origins, at the beginning, followed by the main trilogy.
- Batman: Arkham Origins: Set early in Batman’s career, Origins introduces key characters like the Joker and explores the Dark Knight’s first encounters with many of his iconic foes. It sets the stage for the relationships and conflicts that define the later games.
- Batman: Arkham Asylum: The first game in the timeline, Asylum showcases a more seasoned Batman facing one of his greatest challenges. The confined setting and psychological tension make it a perfect starting point for the main trilogy.
- Batman: Arkham City: Building on the events of Asylum, City expands the scope of the story and introduces new threats. The game’s open-world design and deeper narrative make it a natural progression from Asylum.
- Batman: Arkham Knight: The final chapter in the timeline, Knight brings the story full circle, resolving long-standing plotlines and delivering a satisfying conclusion to Batman’s journey.
Chronological order provides a cohesive narrative experience, but it may feel disjointed in terms of gameplay evolution, as Origins lacks some of the refinements of the later games.
3. Thematic Order: Exploring Batman’s Evolution
Another approach is to play the games based on their thematic focus, grouping them by the aspects of Batman’s character they explore.
- The Detective (Arkham Origins and Arkham Asylum): These games emphasize Batman’s investigative skills and his ability to outthink his enemies. Origins introduces the concept of Batman as a detective, while Asylum refines it with more intricate puzzles and crime scene analysis.
- The Warrior (Arkham City): City shifts the focus to Batman’s physical prowess and his role as a protector of Gotham. The game’s combat system and open-world design highlight his ability to take on multiple foes and navigate a chaotic environment.
- The Legend (Arkham Knight): Knight explores Batman’s legacy and the psychological toll of his crusade. The game’s darker tone and emphasis on the Batmobile reflect the weight of his responsibilities and the sacrifices he must make.
This thematic approach allows players to appreciate the different facets of Batman’s character, but it may disrupt the narrative flow of the series.
4. Alternate Order: Mixing It Up
For players seeking a unique experience, mixing the order of the games can provide fresh insights and challenges. For example:
- Start with Arkham City to experience the series at its most ambitious, then go back to Arkham Asylum to see how it all began.
- Play Arkham Knight first for its polished gameplay and cinematic storytelling, then explore the earlier games to understand the context.
While this approach can be rewarding, it risks spoiling key plot points and diminishing the impact of certain storylines.
5. The Role of Spin-Offs and DLC
In addition to the main games, the Arkham series includes spin-offs like Batman: Arkham VR and Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, as well as numerous DLC packs. These additions can be played alongside or after the main games, depending on their relevance to the overall story.
- Arkham VR: A short but immersive experience that delves into Batman’s psyche. Best played after Arkham Knight for maximum impact.
- Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League: Set after the events of Arkham Knight, this game offers a different perspective on the Arkham universe. It can be played as a standalone experience or as a follow-up to the main series.
Conclusion
The ideal order to play the Arkham games depends on your priorities: release order for a balanced experience, chronological order for narrative coherence, thematic order for character exploration, or an alternate order for a fresh perspective. Regardless of the path you choose, the Arkham series offers a rich, immersive journey through the world of Batman, blending action, mystery, and storytelling in a way that few other franchises can match.
Related Q&A
Q: Should I play Arkham Origins if it’s not developed by Rocksteady?
A: Yes, Arkham Origins provides valuable backstory and context for the main series, even if it lacks some of the polish of Rocksteady’s games.
Q: Is Arkham Knight too difficult for beginners?
A: While Arkham Knight introduces more complex mechanics, its tutorials and adaptive difficulty make it accessible to newcomers.
Q: Can I skip Arkham VR?
A: Arkham VR is optional but recommended for its unique perspective on Batman’s character and its ties to the main series.
Q: What about the DLCs? When should I play them?
A: Most DLCs are best played after completing the main story of their respective games, as they often expand on side characters and unresolved plotlines.