Through its first three episodes, Telltale’s Batman game series has managed to carve out a niche, tackling very familiar territory in its own unique way. The Batman you control is a composite of the choices you’ve made in the game, while characters like the Penguin, Harvey Dent, and Catwoman all feel distinct from other takes on the Dark Knight. Even this version of Gotham City feels different, with a history largely its own. In episode four, called ”Guardian of Gotham,” this trend continues with the introduction of a compelling new take on the Joker.
Unfortunately, the rest of the episode doesn’t stand up to the lofty expectations set by the series as a whole.
Spoilers below.
“Guardian of Gotham” takes place not long after the end of episode three, with Bruce condemned to Arkham Asylum after his drug-induced attack on Oswald Cobblepot. Given his current public standing — spoiler: it’s not good — and the Wayne’s history with the institution, Bruce essentially finds himself with a big red target painted on his chest. The patients, the orderlies — everyone seems like they’re out to get him.
The only person who comes to his aid is a creepy patient known only as John Doe. He’s apparently never told anyone his real name, but his identity is clear: you don’t have to be a Batman expert to recognize that green hair and hideous smile.