This 2012 expansion for Batman: Arkham City requires the base game and delivers several hours of new story content where Batman is lured back by a vengeful Harley Quinn. The core gameplay retains the established hack and slash combat and adventure elements, but notably introduces the ability to play as both Batman and Robin across the new missions. Community reception focuses on this being a focused, narrative epilogue rather than a massive content addition.
The narrative centers on the vengeful return of Harley Quinn, who lures Batman back into Arkham City. The plot kicks off with Robin searching for Batman, who has disappeared after infiltrating Harley’s stronghold in the Industrial District to rescue kidnapped police officers. As Robin searches, Oracle expresses concern over Batman’s recent behavior following the events of the main game. The story then flashes back to reveal the events leading up to Batman’s capture, detailing his initial attempts to thwart Harley’s hostage situation and the subsequent confrontation that leaves him incapacitated.
Harley Quinn, now more dangerous and driven by a desire for revenge, serves as the primary antagonist for this new chapter. The atmosphere remains consistent with the parent game, maintaining the grim, high-stakes environment of the prison city.
This expansion primarily adds several hours of new story content that bridges narrative gaps following the conclusion of the main adventure. A significant feature is the introduction of dual playable characters.
For the first time in this specific storyline, players gain the ability to control not only Batman but also Robin. Each character brings their own perspective and potentially distinct traversal or combat sequences to the new missions.
While this content is substantial enough to offer a dedicated new arc, it is important to note that it is an expansion, not a full sequel. It is designed to enhance the overall experience of Arkham City by providing a final, focused chapter rather than introducing massive new open-world areas or extensive new gameplay systems beyond the character swap.
The core gameplay mechanics remain rooted in the established formula of the parent game: a blend of hack and slash combat, stealth takedowns, and adventure elements. Players will utilize Batman’s extensive gadgetry and martial arts prowess, alongside Robin’s unique abilities, to navigate the environment, solve minor puzzles, and engage in intense brawls against Harley’s forces.
The primary mechanical change involves the ability to switch between Batman and Robin during specific segments of the new missions. This allows players to experience the challenges of Arkham City through two distinct lenses, utilizing the unique movesets associated with each vigilante to overcome obstacles set by Harley Quinn.
The content of this game is suitable for persons aged 16 years and over only. It contains: Realistic looking violence.