Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate Deluxe Edition

Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate, also known as the Deluxe Edition on PC, takes the Dark Knight on a 2.5D side-scrolling adventure inside the infamous Blackgate Prison. This game shifts away from the open-world style of the main Arkham series and dives into classic brawler territory with exploration and stealth elements. If you ever wondered what it’s like to don the cape and cowl in a handheld-style game but on your PC, this is the one to check out.

What’s the Deal with Blackgate?

The game drops you into Blackgate Prison, where inmates have thrown control out the window, and chaos is the new law. You play as Batman, tasked with putting things back in order before the entire prison turns into a war zone. It’s a mix of fighting, sneaking, and puzzle-solving. Not the deep detective stuff from the other Arkham games but enough smart moments to keep it from feeling like just another beat ’em up.

Gameplay That Hits the Mark

Unlike the fully 3D Arkham titles, Blackgate keeps things side-scrolling with a focus on tight combat and exploration. The controls are pretty smooth, so you won’t be fighting your keyboard while battling goons. Expect to use Batman’s gadgets like the batarang and grappling hook creatively to find secrets and avoid traps. Lesson learned here: always carry a spare batarang—you’ll need it.

Key Features at a Glance

• Classic side-scrolling action: Think brawler meets detective with a Batman twist.
• Gadgets galore: Use the grappling hook, explosive gel, and more to outsmart enemies.
• Exploration and secrets: There’s more than meets the eye in every corridor.
• Enhanced visuals: Updated for PC with sharper graphics and sound.
• Voiced story: Characters bring Gotham’s chaos to life, no silent cutscenes here.

Why Try Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate?

Looking for a change of pace from big open-world games? This one’s a neat bite-sized adventure with enough action to keep you engaged. It’s not the most expansive Batman game out there, but it packs solid combat and exploration into a neat package. Plus, if you’re into quick sessions or want a Batman fix without diving back into Arkham City or Knight, this might do the trick.

Need a challenge? You got it. Want stealth moments followed by punching thugs? Check. The game’s quirks mean it’s not for everyone, but if you like your Batman with a side of classic gameplay, Blackgate’s an interesting detour.