Rocksteady's iconic Batman game series, despite Arkham Knight's release nearly a decade ago, continues to exert influence. As the possibility of a reboot looms, the next Batman saga could carve its own path by drawing inspiration from two iconic and darker comic storylines: The Dark Knight Returns and Batman Beyond.
A Reboot with a Dark Twist:
Following the events of Arkham Knight and the potential canonicity of the upcoming Suicide Squad game, the narrative room for Bruce Wayne in Rocksteady games seems limited. Fans are speculating about a clean slate through a reboot, and one story stands out as the ideal source material for such a venture – The Dark Knight Returns.
The Dark Knight Returns: A Story of Evolution:
The Dark Knight Returns, penned by Frank Miller in 1986, took Batman to a darker realm after a period of lighthearted storytelling. The narrative centers around an older Bruce Wayne returning to crime-fighting, mirroring his evolution in video games after a hiatus. The story's rich source material could seamlessly fill an entire game narrative. With its focus on The Joker and later Superman as primary antagonists, there's even potential for a split adaptation into two games, offering players a comprehensive and engaging experience.
This adaptation would not only align with the character's hiatus from his own game but could inject a more violent edge into gameplay, distinguishing it from the Arkham titles and delivering a fresh take on Batman's character.
Batman Beyond: A Sequel to Complete the Trilogy:
In contemplating the trajectory of a Batman game trilogy, it's essential to consider what comes after The Dark Knight Returns. The sequel, The Dark Knight Strikes Again, is deemed too controversial by fans. However, an alternative direction arises with Batman Beyond, an animated series from 1999 that developed a cult following.
After players experience an aged Bruce Wayne in The Dark Knight Returns-inspired titles, introducing Terry McGinnis as the protagonist in an Arkham-inspired Batman Beyond title could be the perfect finale for a new trilogy of Batman games. Maintaining continuity, the narrative could follow Bruce Wayne faking his death and going into hiding, allowing him to transition into the mentor role he takes on in Batman Beyond.
While Batman Beyond has had appearances in Arkham game skins, a proper adaptation could offer players a unique and immersive experience. By exploring the ties between The Dark Knight Returns and Batman Beyond in new games, Rocksteady has the potential to craft one of Batman's most cohesive trilogies, seamlessly blending continuity and innovation. As the gaming community eagerly anticipates the next Batman saga, this bold Bruce Wayne choice could be the key to unlocking a captivating and memorable gaming experience.
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