Batman: Arkham Asylum

Batman: Arkham Asylum is a third-person action game set in Gotham City’s infamous psychiatric facility for criminals, Arkham Asylum. The story begins with Batman escorting the Joker back to the institution after his latest capture, only for the Clown Prince of Crime to escape and orchestrate a takeover of the asylum with the help of its inmates. Trapped inside, Batman must restore order, stop the Joker’s plans, and face some of his most dangerous adversaries, including Harley Quinn, Killer Croc, Poison Ivy, and Scarecrow.

Gameplay blends exploration, stealth, detective work, and free-flowing combat. Players guide Batman across the asylum’s interconnected areas - ranging from cell blocks and medical wings to underground caverns - using acrobatics, gadgets, and detective skills to progress. Combat is based on a rhythmic counter-and-strike system, encouraging fluid chains of attacks against multiple enemies at once. Stealth segments allow Batman to stalk guards from the shadows, using vents, gargoyles, and line-of-sight tricks to silently eliminate threats. Detective vision highlights objects of interest, interactive clues, and enemy awareness, helping players plan their approach.

Progression comes through an upgrade system, where experience earned in combat or exploration can unlock new moves, increased health, or enhanced gadget capabilities. Batman’s arsenal includes staples like the grappling hook, Batarangs, explosive gel, and zipline, each of which expands traversal and puzzle-solving options. The asylum itself is packed with secrets, including 240 "riddles" (hidden trophies and challenges) left behind by the Riddler, environmental puzzles, and lore entries that expand Gotham’s backstory. Bonus modes outside the story campaign provide timed combat and stealth challenges for players to master.