Parents' Guide to

Batman: Arkham City

By Marc Saltzman, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 15+

While dark and violent, this superhero game is intriguing.

Batman: Arkham City Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this game.

Community Reviews

age 12+

Based on 32 parent reviews

age 13+

Great, not just mindless violence

It’s pretty violent, although no blood and gore in gameplay. You can very occasionally break bones, but, because you are Batman, cannot kill. There are a few dark side missions involving corpses, but you don’t see them being killed, and the darkest stuff is all implied. No sex or nudity other than suggestive outfits and a neon sign that says live nudes. You cannot enter or see anything. The language is a pg13 and the worst is bi*ch. Positive messages. If your kid has seen any of Nolan’s films or the Batman, they can easily play this.

This title has:

Great role models
age 10+

Very good game.

I really enjoyed playing this game. All the characters are very real and convincing. Swearing is limited.

This title has:

Great messages
Great role models
Easy to play/use

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (32 ):
Kids say (173 ):

Without question, Batman: Arkham City is one of the most enjoyable video games of 2011 –- even if you’re not a major fan of the DC Comics hero. Between its wealth of stealth and action, well-written story, memorable characters, and extraordinary production values, this game is definitely worth "clawing" onto. While Batman walks a little stiff, the brawls are fast and fluid as you master combinations and takedowns with some practice. You can get away with some “button mashing” at the start of the game, but taking down tougher enemies and bosses later on will require some savvy melee or ranged attacks, use of gadgets, acrobatic dodges, and other tactics. For example, some enemies can only be taken down with certain moves or with a specific approach (such as from above or behind).

But the game is a lot more than a series of skirmishes. It’s a thrill to navigate through the dark city streets, soar with your outspread cape between skyscrapers, or scale tall buildings. You’ll also traipse through creepy indoor levels, including a subterranean subway terminal, an old museum, and an abandoned courthouse, to name a few. Along with the exceptional atmosphere -- complemented by the game’s high-definition details and smart architecture, great use of lightning, and Hollywood-quality sound and voice acting -- the game’s action has purpose as you uncover more of the plot, master and upgrade gadgets, and take on many missions all tied to the tale.

Note: All three versions of the game are the same.

Game Details

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