Batman: Return to Arkham - Arkham City (2016)
Game Description:
In "Batman: Return to Arkham - Arkham City," players are thrust into the heart of a sprawling, fortified district in Gotham City, now a massive open-air prison for the most dangerous criminals. As Batman, you must navigate this chaotic environment, uncovering a sinister plot orchestrated by Hugo Strange, who knows your true identity. The game features an all-star cast of iconic villains, including the Joker, Two-Face, and the Penguin, each with their own nefarious plans. With enhanced combat mechanics, detective work, and a rich storyline, players must use Batman's skills and gadgets to restore order and prevent the city from descending into chaos. This remastered version, released in 2016, offers improved graphics and performance.
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What Parents Should Know About Batman: Return to Arkham - Arkham City
Age Rating
Release Date
2016
ESRB Age Rating Summary:
Batman: Return to Arkham - Arkham City is rated T for Teen by the ESRB with Alcohol Reference, Blood, Mild Language, Suggestive Themes, Use of Tobacco, and Violence. This is an action-adventure game featuring characters from the Batman franchise. Players assume the role of Batman as he investigates Arkham City, a neighborhood overrun by psychopathic criminals and former prison inmates. As players explore the city and infiltrate hideouts, they punch and kick criminals in melee-style combat, using various gadgets (e.g., explosive gel, smoke pellets, grappling gun) to defend themselves against gun-wielding villains. The frenetic combat is highlighted by cries of pain, punching sounds, realistic gunfire, and slow-motion effects. In some sequences, players must solve puzzles or use stealth to incapacitate enemies and free hostages; when players fail a challenge, the hostage will lose his life. Some environments contain bloodstains on the floor or furniture; other cutscenes depict spots of blood on injured characters. During the course of the game, some female characters are dressed in form-fitting outfits that expose large amounts of cleavage; one background sign depicts the silhouette of a woman and the words “Live Nude.” The dialogue also contains some suggestive references (e.g., “The anger, the frustration, the hints of repressed sexual tension”). One sequence depicts a character smoking a cigar, and there are various references to alcohol (e.g., “She got a little drunk and killed her classmates” and “I'd give anything for a nice cold beer right now.”). The words “b*tch,” “a*s,” and “bastard” can be heard in dialogue.
Content Warnings:
Alcohol Reference, Blood, Mild Language, Suggestive Themes, Use of Tobacco, Violence
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Parental Notes
While many parents praise the gameplay experience, they caution that Batman: Return to Arkham - Arkham City is not suitable for young kids. The game contains mild to moderate profanity, including words like “b*tch,” “a*s,” and “bastard.” The violence is intense, with realistic combat sounds, slow-motion effects, and scenes depicting bloodstains. The game also includes suggestive themes, such as female characters in revealing outfits and dialogue with sexual undertones. References to alcohol and tobacco use are present, adding to the mature content. Many parents recommend this game for teens 13 and older due to its mature themes and intense action.
Why Your Kid Might Like Batman: Return to Arkham - Arkham City
In "Batman: Return to Arkham - Arkham City," the thrill of stepping into Batman's shoes is a major draw for teens. The game offers a rich, immersive experience with its open-world design, allowing players to explore a gritty, atmospheric Gotham City. The engaging storyline, filled with iconic villains like the Joker and Two-Face, keeps players on the edge of their seats. The combat system is fluid and satisfying, providing a sense of empowerment as players take down enemies using Batman's martial arts skills and gadgets.
Teens appreciate the game's balance of action and detective work, which challenges them to think strategically. The remastered version's improved graphics and performance enhance the overall experience, making the dark, detailed world even more captivating. The freedom to roam and tackle missions in various ways adds replayability, ensuring that players can spend hours uncovering secrets and completing side quests. For those who enjoy superhero narratives and action-packed gameplay, this game offers a compelling adventure in the Batman universe.