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'Batman: Arkham Knight (2015)' is, as of now, the final main instalment in its series. Although it isn't quite as good as 'Batman: Arkham City (2011)', it ends the story on a solid note and is a fantastic game from the second it begins. Its narrative picks up after the gloomy end of its predecessor, taking things in a somewhat new direction when Scarecrow - one of the highlights of the first game in the series - rolls into Gotham with a plan to bring it to its knees. There are some really interesting characterisations here and the title does quite a bit of exploration when it comes to Batman's innermost fears and anxieties. Of course, it also has a couple of less successful moments. However, the overall thing is compelling and entertaining right the way through. The gameplay is probably the most refined it has ever been, tightening up series-staple mechanics while introducing several new gadgets and abilities. The combat is as deep and fluid as you'd expect, while the predator encounters are as challenging and suspenseful as ever. It's all really exciting and often contextualised within its wider world. That's because this time the entire city is explorable, from its highest rooftops to its shabbiest alleys. Soaring over the rain-soaked city as searchlights blaze their circles into the sky is simply stunning. Beneath its grimy aesthetic, the game really is gorgeous; the jump in generation between this title and the last is evident. The thing's most major new mechanic is the Batmobile, which has proven controversial among fans. Personally, I think it's a great addition. The car mode provokes an intense feeling of speed and the tank mode satisfyingly allows you to deal out some heavy damage. Perhaps it is leaned on a little too heavily in some scripted segments and in some of the Riddler's puzzles, but it's an enjoyable element of the experience that never truly feels cumbersome. Besides, it can launch you into the air, which is indescribably fulfilling. The city itself is peppered with stuff to do, all of which progresses side-plots than can result in you apprehending several well-known villains. This is great because it means that there is no busywork. It really is a treat to see your progress in real time, as Gotham PD fills up with the likes of Two-Face and the Penguin. Of course, there's also the elusive Riddler to contend with. He's put his trophies all over the place yet again and given you another set of lore-based riddles to solve. They're all tied to a series of 'Saw (2004)'-like traps and, this time, the completion of thse bring you one step closer to freeing Catwoman (who has been captured by the rogue and assists you in her own escape). This a great way of making the Riddler stuff seem even more urgent than it has before, as it directly impacts a playable character who is an important part of the series. The game, as a whole, has a strong sense of urgency to it. It supposedly plays out in real time and it pushes the Dark Knight to his limits. It's filled with effective storytelling, engaging characters and exciting gameplay. It's an extremely enjoyable experience. 10/10
