49. Arkham Asylum

Arkham Asylum (Rockstar Games) 2009

Genre

Video Game (Playstation 3)

Review

The game begins with Batman apprehending the Joker and taking him to Gotham's prison for the criminally insane: Arkham Asylum.  Soon, the Joker escapes, takes Commissioner Gordon captive, and releases all of the prisoners.  Batman has to traverse the island, battling many of the supervillians he's helped capture in order to save Gordon and wrest control of the island from the Joker.  There are encounters with Poison Ivy, Bane, Killer Croc, and the Scarecrow.

Opinion

The game is rated "T for teen" and some parents of tweens may deem the game too dark. too scary, or too violent.  The levels with the Scarecrow are particularly frightening.  And part of Joker's plan is to use a toxin called Titan -- which is like a super steroid -- on himself to gain strength.  In the last battle Joker has taken the drug and increases in size and takes on an even more garish appearance than normal, which may also be scary.  But because Batman has wide popularity, many tweens will likely play the game or want to.  The game is engrossing and fun, with a complex and sophisticated story (even if game play is mostly about punching people and using gadgets).

Ideas

This game might not be a great choice for library programming.  It's long and complex and only allows one player at a time.  If the library has a station for patrons to play games, this one is popular enough that it may warrant inclusion.  But you should be prepared to face challenges by parents of young children.