Review Shooter: Batman: Arkham City 3
Sometimes, it is not the destination but the journey that matters. Thus far, that has been the case for Batman: Arkham City mini-series. We all know that the series serves as a bridge between Batman: Arkham Asylum and Batman: Arkham City the video game, but thus far the comic has been a fun and thrilling read all on its own. This issue keeps up the solid foundation built in issues 1 and 2.
Part of the credit has to be given to Paul Dini, who has nearly 20 years of experience with the Dark Knight and his often colorful foes. Dini controls the characters, their interactions, and the world with the greatest of ease. There is little wasted space in the comics, and the story and pay-off are just brilliant. Sure, most people familiar with Batman will probably see it coming, but that doesn’t make it any less special.
At the crux of the issue, is the gang-land mentality that is forming in Arkham City. An element which we know will be key to the plot and actions of the video game. We get to see how one makes his way into either The Penguin or The Joker’s gang, and what happens when both parties vie for the same prize. All in all, it is a good, fun read and to say anymore would ruin some of the comics best beats.
As I said earlier though, Paul Dini is only given part of the credit. The other part has to go to the artist Carlos D’anda who draws one of the most visually appealing versions of Gotham that I’ve seen in some time. It is so odd how the art of the game translates so masterfully to the comics, but doesn’t work as well in the actual game.
New Reader Accessibility: 3 The comic is fairly easy to get into. Even though, it is the 3rd part of a mini-series, it still reads remarkably well on its own. Only the final page or so tying into a larger plot, which I’ll be frank won’t actually be resolved in this mini.
Recommendation: Buy It! This comes with my most humble of recommendations. It is really a great read, and I think for fans of Arkham Asylum essential reading. Not because it ties up any loose plot points, but because its so damn good, and really who doesn’t want more?
