Holy Great Game, Batman!
Then, I see the GameInformer cover with Catwoman next to Batman. Somehow, I knew this one would be different. So yes- I only purchased this game because of the chance to play as Catwoman.
Now, it's been a little over a week since it's come out, and I just got to sink my teeth into it. I had to ask in a forum on here just how playable she was because every review I read, from here to GI to IGN said "Catwoman was a fully playable character". And while I understood she had her own side quest and moveset, I wasn't sure what exactly that meant. Thanks to people clearing it up on here, I found out it was enough to make me wanna get this game.
So, I haven't even made it 25% through the main storyline yet, as I just got it, but I have to say- I am VERY IMPRESSED WITH THIS GAME. From the storyline to the characters (and their individual animations), and even Arkham City itself- this game is top notch, through and through.
The combat system in the game is the real star, in my eyes. It takes the simple, mindless formula of pressing X, Y, and B (as most beat 'em up's have) and turns it into a stylish affair. Batman and Catwoman play completely seperatley, but both look great. And there is nothing more rewarding than laying down the law on the a group of denizens of Arkham without taking a hit, via the flawless (and I do mean FLAWLESS) counter system. As long as you can see what I like to call the "batsense" over the enemies (it looks like Spidey sense, but it's Batman), press the Y button, and your character will fluidly evade their attack, while placing one of their own on them. And for Catwoman, they even add a personal flair- she kisses one before laying them out. It's these little noticible things that make hardcore gamers and fanboys of the series alike giggle with glee.
The city is pretty big, and it's nice to see how far they've come from the first one. I remember my boyfriend was on a pretty linear path in the previous title, but here- it's all up to you. You can go straight for the main story, do sidequests, find Riddler trophies, or just skulk the city and fity badguys leveling your character up for new abilities and gadgets (and believe you me, there's plenty to keep you pressing that Back button). And the nice thing about it? The city feels a certain way... for me, I don't wanna travel on the ground, as it just doesn't feel as safe as taking to the rooftops (which can be just as threatening at times). It is THE BEST representation of Gotham City, even if it's not flat out Gotham City.
As I said, this may be biased on account that I got the game for Catwoman- but having only played a small portion as her, I am very impressed already. I would never write a review for a game 25% through- but this one is amazing. Whether your a fan of Batman or you like Open world games, or just really good beat 'em up's- this game is a romping good time, no doubt!