A masterfully crafted third person action adventure, that combines various elements that deliver an outstanding package.
The premise is simple and clever, take all of Batman's most dangerous and well-done enemies, put them all in one seemingly haunted institution, and have The Joker play it all out. The presentation is simply outstanding, given the absolute flawless setting, it paves the way for one of the best experiences of 09, and on next-generation consoles as a whole.
The Gameplay presents itself in solid elements, which don't nessacrily shine individually, but when mixed in with the excellent pacing the game allows for, are masterfully excecuted. For one there is a beat-em up aspect, which relies on X for the plethora of animations and combo's Batman has at his disposal, and Y which is responsible for the counters, done in such a masterful and animated way. It sounds simple enough, but some of the game's biggest pleasures come in very simple doses.
Aside from the vast amounts of beat-em ups you will do to some unfortunate inmates, there are various set-pieces which rely on cunning and predator skill to succeed. The way the game mixes these so relentlessly and well-paced really is what keeps the game going until the end. Gadgets play various roles and are essential for you getting around the Island. All are usually well-done and are very fun to use in their own right, which contribute to the whole experience you get for BEING The Batman.
Boss Fights are to be well noted as well, and, while they are not essentially the highlight of the game, there are some very clever moments that present themselves with these villains, that aren't executed in the best way, save for Scarecrow, which, spoilers aside, will have you most baffled and the peak of Batman's innovation.
The graphics and atmosphere are arguably one of Arkham Asylum's biggest selling points. The way the game puts you into the role of Batman is so skillfully done, that you will be immediately sucked in to the ordeal batman is going through. The graphics, technically proficient, run noticable within a 30 FPS range for the most part, and are definitely eye-candy in most parts. The animation is simply some of the best seen in an action adventure. During the course of the game, you will undoubtably feel you're there in the fray. Overall, excellent looking game with an atmosphere not so much as creepy as it is interesting.
Overall, if you're into Batman and into well executed games with TOP production values, even without an emphasis to the former, Batman Arkham Asylum is one of the best games you will play this year, and is sure to be a classic amongst fans of comic book based games. If your childhood dream was ever to step into the Batman suit for a day or two, Arkham Asylum is sure to satisfy that want, and leave you away utterly satisfied with your purchase.