The game that set the bar for what a licensed superhero game could be. The dedication to create such an atmospheric and faithful rendition of the Batman universe will forever mark this game for greatness. The innovative combat system this game pioneered would also become a template for many games that followed, and it remains an engaging and challenging system to use and learn to master. Add in the predator missions that play into the fantasy of the Batman with a number of tools to use to beat each challenge, and you arrive at a gameplay framework that delivers on every aspect of what it feels like to play as the Batman.

Where the game falters though is the boss battles against iconic Batman villains. When they aren't boring or unengaging, they are reskinning a normal enemy, which is downright tragic. The game also struggles to maintain momentum going into the final act, and that lackluster conclusion is an unfortunate black mark on an otherwise great game.

Arkham Asylum reinvented what it means to adapt comic book superheroes to video games, and even when it has since been surpassed, it is important to remember just how much this game got right the first time around. It still remains a fun an engaging experience, and one that any existing or prospective fan of the source material should definitely play.