LEGO media is known for quality and humor, and they have made some incredible video games before, but LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight is by far the best LEGO video game ever created. As an action-adventure game set in Gotham, it embodies what a LEGO game should be while paying respect to its obvious game inspiration, the Arkham Trilogy. Following an original story, while featuring plots and scenes from classic Batman media, you’ll navigate the epic story of the Dark Knight, from losing his parents to his first love to becoming the head of the Batfam. 

With witty banter, a wide array of Batman suits, plenty of collectibles to be found, and the rage-inducing taunting of the Riddler, this game has it all. Let’s dive into the world of LEGO Batman and the media it pays homage to. This is NOT a spoiler-free review!

The Legacy of Batman Media

Before diving into the game, you may have noticed in the trailer that it features multiple storylines inspired by various Batman media. This excited fans of all ages because everyone gets the chance to relive their favorite Batman moments and discover new stories. The trailer also featured the song “Kissed by a Rose,” which was created for the film Batman Forever.

Featured Batman Media (not in appearance order):

• The TV Batman series (1966-1968)
• Tim Burton’s Batman (1989), Batman Returns (1992), and Batman Forever (1995)
• Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight trilogy (2005-2012)
• LEGO Batman: The Videogame (2008)
• Rocksteady’s Batman: Arkham Asylum (2009), Batman: Arkham City (2011), and Batman: Arkham Knight (2015)
• Zack Snyder’s Batman v Superman (2016)
• The Lego Batman Movie (2017)
• Matt Reeves’ The Batman (2022)
• Batgirl (cancelled)
• Comic references ranging from the Golden Ae era in 1939 to the most recent run in Absolute Batman

It’s Story Time, Gotham

Batman’s story always begins the same, with the tragedy of that night in the alley where his parents were murdered. This game starts with the story as well, but you’re given the opportunity to play as young Bruce with his parents before the show.

After that, scenes fly by, aging Bruce Wayne and painting the picture of a tainted Gotham, beginning the real story of the man who lives in the shadows. But, you don’t get to play as Batman just yet! Bruce has to learn the skills he needs to become Batman first, and trains with the League of Shadows. Here, you’ll meet Talia and train with her, bonding and flirting, with strong hints of their relationship that eventually leads to Damien (not featured in the game, yet).

After that, each chapter follows a main storyline, fighting the Penguin, Joker, Mr. Freeze, Bane, and eventually Talia. Depending on the chapter, you’ll have a companion by your side to help, starting with Jim Gordon, Catwoman (Selina Kyle), young Robin (Dick Grayson), Batgirl (Barbara Gordon), Nightwing (Dick Grayson), and Talia. Yes, she is either a friend or an enemy, depending on where you’re at! Alfred also helps later in the story, and you can unlock some outfits for him once you complete the main story.

Though the main story is done for now, the story of Batman is never over. In September, a DLC called the Mayhem Collection will be released where you follow the villain-focused stories of Joker and Harley. Hopefully, there will be more DLC after that or a second game featuring more of Batman’s story, including the three other Robins!

Holy LEGO, Batman!

This is a LEGO game, of course, so it is not extremely difficult even on hard mode, but it follows the fighting mechanics of the Arkham games with silent takedowns, perched takedowns, beat-down combos, hiding in vents, and similar Batmobile driving mechanics. It also includes other Arkham items, such as explosive gel and various tech-based batarangs. All the characters will provide verbal tips and guidance if you’re struggling, and certain puzzles will have a small image of the character you need to complete it.

You can play entirely in single-player and switch between characters as needed, but the game was designed for two-player compatibility. With the exception of the very first moments as young Bruce, you will always have someone at your side throughout the game, and each character has unique skills and fighting styles. You’ll need certain characters to be able to unlock areas, defeat enemies, or complete challenges, so once you’ve unlocked everyone, you can go back and complete the map. Each level also has collectibles within, and depending on who is helping at the time, you may have to use them to grab everything! Catwoman has the extra help of summoning a cat to navigate small areas and grab items to unlock doors.

Whether you decide to take on the mask of justice alone or team up to build out the Batfam, LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight is a fun game with fairly easy gaming mechanics for everyone.

It’s Time to Join the Batfam

Are you ready to experience Bruce Wayne’s journey to becoming Batman firsthand? Dive into the lore in a fun and accessible way while making friends in unexpected places, growing your family, and reliving some epic Batman media moments.

LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight is available now to play on the PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Steam, EPIC, and is coming to the Switch 2 soon.

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All game content and information is based on my personal gaming experience. The images were taken by me. I fact-checked game details with the sources below.

Sources: 

• Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lego_Batman:_Legacy_of_the_Dark_Knight
• LEGO Batman Game: https://legobatmangame.com