Batman - The Telltale Series

Gameplay – 7.5/10

In contrast to the conventional Batman games that emphasize fast-paced action sequences (the Arkham series), this project relies more on story and choice-based adventure leaning towards detective work, dialogues, and player decisions. The game follows Telltale's signature structure whereby dialogue options lead to outcomes, in QTEs for action scenes, and through solving puzzles.

Duality of playing as Batman and Bruce Wayne creates a new dimension in shaping the destiny of Gotham, whether through diplomacy or intimidation. Detective mode is an interesting addition: players must associate clues to reconstruct a crime scene. However, excessive quick-time events in combat do become repetitive, with far less depth than a real detective experience might have offered. Choices do affect the story, but otherwise, it is a mostly linear structure that leaves little room for replayability.

Story & Characters – 9/10

In reality, Telltale's Gotham dares to reinvent characters and takes unexpected turns. The prince, however, tells the story of Bruce Wayne fighting for his public self against the Batman within, placing all relationships, ethics, and Gotham's corruption squarely in the middle.

The game gives something fresh even for familiar faces with Harvey Dent's arc being one of its most favorites to render in an excellent fashion personalizing his transformation to Two-Face. The Penguin is cleverly repurposed with a very modern, politically rigged background, with The Joker ("John Doe" in game terms) interpreted very differently from the traditional portrayals. The game is also less about the Wayne family being incorporated and more zoomed in on illiciting dark secrets that basically throw Bruce into a quagmire.

The branching dialogue system adds weight to decisions, but some choices don’t feel as impactful as advertised. Still, the emotional stakes and strong character writing make for an engaging experience.

Graphics & Sound – 7/10

The game uses Telltale's trademark comic-book cel-shaded graphics and suits the Batman universe well. However, the technical problems such as frame rate drops, stiff animations, and other bugs, detract from the immersion.

The voice acting is top-tier, with Troy Baker delivering a compelling Bruce Wayne/Batman. Supporting characters, including Laura Bailey as Selina Kyle and Travis Willingham as Harvey Dent, further enhance the storytelling. The soundtrack is fittingly moody, capturing Gotham’s dark and brooding atmosphere.

Replayability – 6.5/10

While the game encourages multiple playthroughs to explore different choices, many decisions lead to similar outcomes, limiting true replayability. However, the ability to approach situations as either Bruce Wayne or Batman offers some variation in how the story unfolds.

Final Verdict – 8/10

Batman: The Telltale Series offers a gripping, narrative-driven take on the Dark Knight, focusing more on Bruce Wayne’s struggles than Batman’s physical prowess. While it suffers from Telltale’s usual technical shortcomings and limited gameplay variety, its bold storytelling, strong character work, and moral dilemmas make it a must-play for Batman fans.