Arkham City

So gaming the past week has been interesting and quite varied.

First off: Beat Arkham City for PS3. Took me a few days to complete, and I must say I am quite impressed. The open world aspect of the game was a draw for me. The huge expectation that was put on this game for being the sequel to Arkham Asylum was a daunting mission, but they did an amazing job with it. I completed most of the side missions as well and, for those playing the game now, definitely try to do some exploring. A lot of the best villains from the series, and certainly some of the most unique, don't show up in the main story. A huge reason to explore farther than just what is at your fingertips.

The combat is as intense as ever, and gets more varied as the game goes along. What is initially a button masher to begin with evolves into an extremely complex fighting system with supplemental weapons opening up the possibilities.

The basic enemies are no the most varied, but keep enough of a variation to keep the game interesting.

The main complaint I would have with this game (and really isn't a complaint against the game at all) would be the quirky way the main story ends. For those who have beaten and reflected on the game's ending, it doesn't make the most sense.

The constant Riddler side trophies are there for the taking as well, and for those ambition enough, release unlockables and challenge maps as you collect more trophies. The idea of the trophies resemble Assassin's Creed with the Borgia Flags, but usually take some kind of problem solving. The Riddler himself, however, has his own mini-story and challenge rooms within the City.

All in all, a great game with good potential for continued play past the initial storyline.
9.5/10