Batman: Arkham Shadow has taken the VR gaming world by storm since its release just four days ago. This latest addition to the beloved Arkham universe has surprised skeptics and delighted fans, proving that the Dark Knight’s adventures can indeed translate well to virtual reality.
Critics and players alike have showered the game with praise, applauding its immersive gameplay and faithful adaptation of the Arkham series’ signature elements. However, as with any new release, some players have begun to voice their concerns about certain aspects of the game that might detract from the overall experience.
As the dust settles and more gamers don the cowl, let’s take a closer look at three potentially annoying facts about Batman: Arkham Shadow that could put a dent in your Caped Crusader fantasies.
3. Combat: A Double-Edged Batarang
The combat system in Batman: Arkham Shadow has been a hot topic of discussion among players. While it aims to recreate the fluid, bone-crunching action of the original Arkham games, some users have reported feeling disoriented and even nauseous during intense fight sequences.
One particular point of contention is the frequency of attacks from behind. As any Arkham veteran knows, watching your back is crucial, but in VR, this mechanic can be jarring. Some players have found themselves spinning around like a bat out of hell, desperately trying to counter unseen assailants.
However, it’s not all doom and gloom in Gotham. Many players have discovered that you don’t actually need to physically turn around to counter these attacks. A well-timed sideways slash when the indicator appears is often enough to perform a counter before sending thugs flying.
It seems that, much like learning to be Batman, mastering the combat in Arkham Shadow takes practice and patience.
2. Interactivity: Not Quite a Bat-Cave of Wonders
In the world of VR gaming, interactivity is king. Players have come to expect a high degree of freedom when it comes to manipulating objects in their virtual environments. Unfortunately, Batman: Arkham Shadow doesn’t quite live up to these lofty expectations.
While you can certainly throw a mean punch and deploy an impressive arsenal of gadgets, don’t expect to be able to pick up every little trinket in Gotham City. Some players have expressed disappointment at not being able to, say, doodle on windows with a Bat-marker or juggle Batarangs between fights.
However, defenders of the game argue that comparing Arkham Shadow‘s interactivity to that of PC-based VR titles like Half-Life: Alyx is unfair. After all, Batman has more pressing matters to attend to than redecorating the city with graffiti. The focus here is on delivering a solid Batman experience, not creating a virtual playground.
1. User Interface: The Bat-Computer Needs an Upgrade
If there’s one criticism that seems to unite players across the board, it’s the game’s user interface. In a world where immersion is paramount, Arkham Shadow‘s menu system feels like a relic from the flat-screen era.
Players have expressed frustration at having to pause the action and open up a separate menu to check the map or review objectives. This breaks the illusion of being the Batman and pulls you out of the experience faster than you can say “Alfred, where am I?”
Many users have suggested that a “wristwatch” mechanic, similar to those seen in other VR titles, would be a welcome addition. Imagine being able to check your objectives with a flick of the wrist, just like consulting the Batcomputer on the go. It’s a small change that could make a big difference in maintaining that all-important sense of immersion.
While these issues may not be deal-breakers for die-hard Batman fans, they’re certainly worth considering before you dive into the grimy streets of Gotham. Batman: Arkham Shadow offers an exciting new way to experience the Dark Knight’s world, but like the Caped Crusader himself, it’s not without its flaws.
Have you played Batman: Arkham Shadow yet? What are your thoughts on these potential issues? Do they impact your enjoyment of the game, or are they minor quibbles in an otherwise stellar experience? Share your opinions in the comments below!
