Batman has been one of the most iconic superheroes in entertainment history, and his legacy extends far beyond comic books and films. Over the decades, Batman video games have captured fans with immersive storytelling, unique gameplay mechanics, and a chance to embody the Dark Knight himself.
But with so many Batman games released on multiple platforms—spanning from early 8-bit adventures to the critically acclaimed Arkham series—new players and longtime fans often ask: In what order should I play the Batman games?
This guide provides a complete chronological timeline of Batman games, covering their release order, story connections, and evolution over time.
Early Batman Games (1986–1999)
The earliest Batman games were straightforward action or side-scrolling adventures, heavily inspired by the movies and comics of their era.
- Batman (1986) – Amstrad CPC, ZX Spectrum, MSX
- The very first Batman game where players guided the hero to rescue Robin.
- Batman: The Caped Crusader (1988) – Amiga, Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum
- Featured two separate stories in a unique comic book panel style.
- Batman (1989) – NES, Genesis, Amiga
- Released alongside Tim Burton’s Batman film, this side-scroller became a fan favorite.
- Batman: Return of the Joker (1991) – NES, Game Boy, Genesis
- A direct sequel with improved graphics and arcade-style gameplay.
- Batman Returns (1992) – Multiple platforms (SNES, Genesis, Sega CD)
- Based on Burton’s movie, this game is still regarded as one of the best early Batman titles.
- Batman: The Animated Series (1993) – Game Boy
- Inspired by the legendary cartoon series.
- The Adventures of Batman & Robin (1994–95) – SNES, Genesis, Sega CD
- Each platform offered a unique version, with some being beat ’em ups and others more action-oriented.
- Batman Forever (1995) – SNES, Genesis, Game Boy, Arcade
- Tied to the Batman Forever movie.
- Batman & Robin (1998) – PlayStation
- Based on the film of the same name, with an open-world Gotham (ahead of its time).
The Rise of 3D Batman Games (2000–2008)
As gaming entered the 3D era, Batman titles experimented with open worlds and cinematic experiences.
- Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker (2000) – N64, PS1, Game Boy Color
- Based on the Batman Beyond animated film.
- Batman: Vengeance (2001) – PS2, Xbox, GameCube
- Closely tied to The New Batman Adventures.
- Batman: Dark Tomorrow (2003) – GameCube, Xbox
- Ambitious but flawed, remembered for its tough controls.
- Batman: Rise of Sin Tzu (2003) – PS2, Xbox, GameCube, GBA
- Introduced a new villain, Sin Tzu, created specifically for the game.
- Batman Begins (2005) – PS2, Xbox, GameCube
- Based on Christopher Nolan’s film, blending stealth and combat.
- LEGO Batman: The Videogame (2008) – Multiplatform
- Family-friendly action and humor, later launching the LEGO DC series.
The Batman: Arkham Series (2009–2015)
The Arkham series redefined superhero games, bringing deep storytelling, stealth mechanics, and combat systems that influenced an entire genre.
- Batman: Arkham Asylum (2009) – PS3, Xbox 360, PC
- The start of the legendary series. Set in Arkham Asylum as Batman faces Joker’s takeover.
- Batman: Arkham City (2011) – PS3, Xbox 360, PC
- Expanded to an open-world Gotham, praised as one of the greatest superhero games ever.
- Batman: Arkham Origins (2013) – PS3, Xbox 360, PC
- A prequel exploring Batman’s early years.
- Batman: Arkham Knight (2015) – PS4, Xbox One, PC
- The epic finale, featuring the Batmobile and high-stakes storytelling.
Modern Batman and Spin-offs (2016–Present)
Batman continues to appear in modern gaming, often through LEGO titles, crossovers, and next-gen adaptations.
- Batman: The Telltale Series (2016) – Multiplatform
- A narrative-driven game where player choices affect the story.
- Batman: The Enemy Within (2017) – Multiplatform
- Continuation of the Telltale series, focusing on Batman’s duality.
- LEGO Batman 2: DC Super Heroes (2012) & LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham (2014)
- Expanded LEGO universes mixing Batman with the Justice League.
- Gotham Knights (2022) – PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
- Not strictly a Batman game (Batman is presumed dead), but focuses on Nightwing, Batgirl, Red Hood, and Robin protecting Gotham.
- Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League (2024)
- Set in the Arkhamverse, Batman makes a chilling reappearance under Brainiac’s control.
Recommended Play Order
If you want to experience Batman’s gaming journey as it evolved:
- Play a few classics (Batman Returns, Adventures of Batman & Robin) for nostalgia.
- Move into the 3D era (Batman Begins, LEGO Batman).
- Dive into the full Arkham Series (Asylum → City → Origins → Knight).
- Finish with narrative-driven modern games (Telltale Series, Gotham Knights).
Conclusion
From pixelated 2D adventures to immersive open worlds, Batman’s gaming legacy reflects his timeless popularity. The Arkham series remains the crown jewel, but older titles and modern adaptations highlight Batman’s versatility as both a character and a gaming icon.
For fans of the Dark Knight, exploring Batman games in order is more than nostalgia—it’s a journey through the evolution of superhero gaming itself.
Final Thought: Whether you’re a longtime gamer or new to Gotham, Batman’s adventures prove one thing: the Dark Knight always rises, in every generation of gaming.
