Should I Play Arkham Before Gotham Knights?
With the release of Gotham Knights, a new era of Batman gaming has dawned. But for those who grew up with the Arkham series, the question remains: should you play Arkham before diving into Gotham Knights? In this article, we’ll explore the connections between the two games, shed light on the story and combat mechanics, and provide you with a helpful guide to help you decide whether Arkham is a necessary pre-requisite for Gotham Knights.
Shared Universe
Gotham Knights is set in the same universe as Arkham, with the same iconic DC characters and locations. The game picks up where Arkham Knight left off, with Batman’s apparent demise and the rise of a new threat. Understanding the events of Arkham Knight, particularly the finale, will deepen your appreciation for the story and characters of Gotham Knights.
Story Connection
Both games share a common narrative thread, with Arkham Knight building towards the events of Gotham Knights. Specifically, the Arkham Knight concludes with Batman’s apparent death and the revelation of his true identity, Talia al Ghul. This development sets the stage for the events of Gotham Knights, where Batman’s protégés, Nightwing, Red Hood, Batgirl, and Robin, band together to take on the villainous Court of Owls.
Similar Combat Mechanics
Gotham Knights retains the same combat mechanics introduced in Arkham Knight. The game’s combat system involves a mix of stealth, strategy, and intense action sequences. Familiarity with the Arkham combat will help you adjust to the new dynamic of playing as multiple characters and switching between them seamlessly.
Significant Story Points
Key story points from Arkham Knight, such as the revelation of Talia al Ghul’s true intentions, should be understood before diving into Gotham Knights. The following points specifically:
- Batman’s apparent death: Understanding this event will provide context for the setting of Gotham Knights.
- Talia al Ghul’s true intentions: Knowing her motivations will impact your understanding of the Court of Owls in Gotham Knights.
- The origin of the Arkham Knight’s suit: Familiarity with this plot point will enhance your understanding of the villain’s powers and abilities.
Takeaways from Arkham
Prior to playing Gotham Knights, understanding the following takeaways from Arkham will enhance your experience:
- The Gotham City setting and its characters are deeply connected to the Arkhamverse.
- The Court of Owls is introduced, setting the stage for the events of Gotham Knights.
- Batman’s determination to protect Gotham City is a major driving force behind the story.
Ultimately, the Choice is Yours
Gotham Knights can be played without prior knowledge of Arkham, but understanding the connections between the two will enrich your experience. If you’re already familiar with the Arkhamverse, you’ll appreciate the nods and homages to the series throughout the game. If you’re new to the franchise, we recommend playing Arkham for a deeper understanding of the world, characters, and story.
Conclusion
Play Arkham before Gotham Knights if:
- You want a deeper understanding of the Arkhamverse, including the characters, setting, and plot developments.
- You want to appreciate the connections and nods to the Arkham series.
- You’re interested in experiencing a broader narrative that spans both games.
Playing Arkham before Gotham Knights will enhance your overall experience, but it is not a necessary pre-requisite. In the end, the choice is yours. Dive into the world of Gotham Knights whenever you’re ready, and remember – the darkness will always be waiting to consume you.