Batman Arkham Shadow

Batman: Arkham Shadow invites players to experience Gotham's gritty underworld in an all-new, immersive VR adventure. Set between Arkham Origins and Arkham Asylum; this game lets you step into the Bat's boots as he navigates the murky labyrinth of Blackgate Prison. With a new villain, the Rat King, at the center of a sinister cult, the game explores fresh mysteries while keeping the pulse of the Arkham legacy alive with atmospheric visuals, punchy combat, and intricate level design.

VR gameplay adds a fresh layer of realism to the classic Arkham elements, making players feel the rush of gliding down Gotham's shadowy hallways, using a cape for cover, and handling iconic gadgets. With a story that leans into Batman's gritty detective roots, Batman: Arkham Shadow keeps players invested in unraveling the Rat King's plot while juggling alliances, solving puzzles, and staying one step ahead of a ruthless inmate population.

I'm Batman

The VR setting in Batman: Arkham Shadow adds an immersive dimension to the Arkham series' trademark exploration and combat. Flickering lights, echoing footsteps, and murky shadows envelop players, plunging them into a fully realized version of Blackgate Prison. In VR, details like the Bat's shadow and the flutter of his cape add a visceral thrill to each encounter. With cleverly integrated lighting and environmental sound effects, players are constantly on edge, a feeling that complements the intense stealth segments where even the slightest sound can mean a failed mission.

Combat has always been a high point in the Arkham games, and Arkham Shadow translates it to VR with punchy satisfaction. Thugs encircle you, requiring swift responses to knock them down or counter-attack. With VR's controls, you'll duck under knife swings, block attacks, and counter-punch, all while juggling multiple enemies — making each encounter an exhilarating experience. While the brawling sequences are a blast, they occasionally suffer from minor bugs that misinterpret specific movements, which can take away from the otherwise smooth experience.

The detective work in Arkham Shadow is another standout, echoing the mystery-solving roots of the Arkham series. From decoding the Rat King's twisted puzzles to investigating crime scenes, the game strikes a satisfying balance between action and story. These detective segments unfold in "Detective Mode," which lets players access hidden clues by pressing a button on the VR headset. While not as advanced as in Arkham Knight, this mode brings a fresh approach to VR, offering intricate clues and hints that fans will relish. However, as with any VR detective work, occasionally missed cues can lead to frustrating repetitions.

As for exploration, Arkham Shadow is an Easter egg lover's dream. Wandering Blackgate nods to Batman lore, hidden messages, and collectible items that reward fans' attention to detail. The VR environment lends an extra layer to this feature, and it's a joy to dial phone numbers in-game or stumble upon a prisoner's cryptic sketch. VR limitations make extended explorations tiring, and occasional bugs break the immersion. Despite this, Arkham Shadow delivers an enjoyable, lore-rich experience that fans will appreciate.

My Sweet Shadow

For those who enjoyed Batman: Arkham VR, Batman: Arkham Shadow expands on its foundation with a more comprehensive VR experience. Unlike Arkham VR, which was limited in scope, Arkham Shadow brings an entire narrative with story-driven interactions and various gameplay elements. Compared to games like Half-Life: Alyx, Arkham Shadow isn't as mechanically refined, but it brings a unique, immersive take on the Batman mythos that VR enthusiasts will love.

Round-Up - Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Immersive VR environment with an authentic Gotham atmosphere
• Intense, satisfying combat mechanics and detective work
• Rich in Batman lore, with hidden Easter eggs throughout

Cons:

• Occasional bugs and clunky VR controls break immersion
• VR limits long exploration sessions
• Some detective-mode puzzles can feel repetitive