It’s very difficult to describe how awesome the combat in Batman: Arkham Asylum truly is. Recently, I got a hands on with the combat portion in the form of challenge rooms. The first thing you notice immediately after the challenge begins is how intuitive the combat system is. No matter what direction the enemies attack from, there is a counter for it. For the moment, at least,  it puts every other counter system on the market to shame.

Pressing the square button several times strings a long combo together, adding to a multiplier and eventually allowing you to perform a very satisfying takedown. Performing a counter itself is very simple, pressing the triangle button when the indicator is above your foes head yields viscerally satisfying results. At one point I grabbed a henchmen’s leg as he struggled to kick me and with the press of a button, snapped it in half. The circle button allows you to stun tougher enemies making it much easier to take them down, which is welcome, of course.

The challenge room itself consisted of four rounds. With the goal to obtain the highest score possible. The challenge room was equally difficult as it was easy. Performing actions is a breeze, however, tougher henchmen can grab guns, which will hurt you much more than any melee attack, as well as carry weapons such as pipes and knives. It’s important to mention how fun it is to play with a friend by your side. The game is a single player affair, however competing for the highest score adds that extra layer or two of depth that competitiveness always adds.

Arkham Asylum provides the accessibility that casual gamers need, but does not take away the complexity and detail that hardcore fans can‘t live without. At least from a combat perspective this is one of the few games in a long time that does both combining a simple and easy to pick up combat system with a deeper timing based system that will mostly be taken advantage of by the real gamers out there. Time will tell if all the other parts of the game add up to a memorable and engaging experience, but, if the challenge rooms are any indication, this game is going to be something very special. Look for our review later this year.

Filed under: B, Game Previews, Games, Main