LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight is a strong mix of the LEGO and Arkham games
One of the biggest surprises to come out of this year’s Gamescom was the announcement of a new LEGO Batman game. Unlike previous titles tied to the original trilogy, this new installment acts as a celebration of the iconic character. It explores the Caped Crusader’s rich history, pays homage to one of his greatest chapters in gaming, and of course, maintains the classic LEGO charm.
Although I wasn’t able to attend Gamescom to try out LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight, WB Games invited me to Warner Bros. Studios as part of this year’s Batman Day festivities to get hands-on experience with the game.
### A Journey Through Batman’s Origins
LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight focuses on the hero’s earliest days. Players will experience Bruce Wayne’s traumatic origins, his rigorous training under the League of Shadows, and his initial years protecting Gotham City as the Dark Knight.
For my preview, I explored the Ace Chemicals plant—a pivotal early mission that culminates in the rise of one of Batman’s most notorious enemies.
### Classic LEGO Meets Arkham-Style Gameplay
This specific chapter plays out as a linear stage. Batman teams up with Officer Jim Gordon to stake out the docks outside the chemical plant, following a tip about some unusual “killer teddy bears.” Players must locate the teddy bear stashes, analyze their chemicals, and then give chase to the leader of the Red Hood gang.
While the game incorporates many elements typical of a classic LEGO adventure, it strongly channels the feel of Rocksteady’s acclaimed Arkham series. Moving stealthily through shadows is a major focus, reminiscent of the Arkham games—though with a LEGO twist as Batman performs slapstick-style stealth takedowns.
Patrolling areas by hanging from perches to ambush enemies is a key mechanic. However, in this demo, Batman didn’t use his grappling hook to suspend foes upside-down as seen in the Arkham titles. Combat shifts into an Arkham-style rhythm when facing multiple enemies, requiring timely button prompts to dodge strikes without breaking combos. There are also intense brute fights where Batman must evade rhino-like charges, keeping players on their toes.
### Jim Gordon Adds Comic Relief and Gameplay Depth
What sets this chapter apart from the Arkham series is the inclusion of Jim Gordon as a playable character. While Batman remains mostly serious, Gordon provides comic relief—starting with a memorable moment where he accidentally activates his glider and almost takes off into the sky.
Gordon’s role extends beyond humor. Players can switch between Batman and Gordon in solo play, each bringing unique gadgets. Batman wields his classic Batarang and grappling hook to manipulate switches, open doors, and clear paths. Gordon uses a foam gun that plugs hazardous chemical leaks and extinguishes fires, enabling Batman to pursue Red Hood One safely.
Even when controlled by AI, Gordon holds his own in battles and can assist in brute fights, such as blinding large enemies with foam blasts. For those seeking cooperative fun, a second player can join in for seamless two-player gameplay.
### The LEGO Spirit Lives On
Of course, LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight never forgets its LEGO roots. LEGO bricks and physics are everywhere, with defeated enemies breaking apart into scattered pieces. Players will also find sections requiring them to gather brick pieces to build structures that unlock new areas.
The Ace Chemicals plant mission is a nostalgic nod, particularly for fans of the 1989 Batman movie, but there’s much more to explore.
### An Open World Gotham Awaits
Beyond individual missions, the game features a full open world reminiscent of the Arkham City and Arkham Knight experience. Players can glide across Gotham’s skyline, answer random crimes, and summon the Batmobile for quicker exploration.
The world is packed with content, including classic Riddler challenges and plenty of secrets scattered throughout the city.
### What’s Next for LEGO Batman?
This preview offers just a glimpse of what WB Games and TT Games have planned for LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight. Multiple eras from Batman’s history will feature prominently, alongside numerous supporting and playable characters from across the Bat-family’s past and present.
LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight is set to release in 2026 for PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch 2. Fans of the Dark Knight and LEGO adventures alike have plenty to look forward to.
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146039/lego-batman-legacy-of-the-dark-knight-batman-day-preview
