Batman: Chaos in Gotham

"One of the better Batman games!"

I earlier reviewed Batman Beyond for the PSX and stated that I was a bit disappointed (very disappointed now) in the game and hoped that Batman: Chaos in Gotham, which was in development at the time, would be better. After picking up Batman: Chaos in Gotham, I can gladly say this is definitely one of the better Batman games in recent memory. Basically, the concept is that there has been an outbreak at Arkham (the facility where Batman takes the crazed criminals of Gotham) and Batman must stop his rogue gallery before they take over Gotham. You can control Batman or Batgirl as you take on a number of Batman's archenemies. The Joker, Harley Quinn, Mr. Freeze, Roxy Rocket, Poison Ivy and others are just a few of the many villains Batman must face in this adventure...surprisingly though, The Riddler, Catwoman and Two-Face are absent in this outing. Nightwing and the GCPD make cameo appearances in the cut-scenes throughout the game that help to push the story along and you get the opportunity to control the Batmobile, Batcycle and a ''Bat-jetpack'' during certain missions.
There are some quibbles I have with this game, minor ones that do not really distract from the game but are noticeable. The items/gadgets that are available aren't really necessary, as I didn't use them after the initial novelty of it wore off. On certain stages it was a bit difficult to distinguish between the background and ledges which you could walk upon or grab onto to pull yourself up. Other than that though, the game is pretty fun.
Once again, I must state as with my previous review with Batman Beyond, that I may be a bit biased with the rating and all, I do love the Dark Knight and I would have bought this game even if the guy at the store said it was the worse game made. With that in mind, I have had fun with this game and think it is a must have for any Batfan...

Graphics: 9/10
The animation is pretty smooth for a GB game. It kind of reminds me of the old SNES ''Adventures of Batman & Robin'' game but not quite as detailed. Batman's cape animates nicely as well as his moves. The cut-scenes are pretty nicely done.

Sound: 6/10
Nothing that really stands out but at the same time nothing really bad or monotonous. I think I only heard the Bat-theme once though.

Control: 8/10
Relatively easy to control the Dark Knight and Batgirl but the vehicles are a bit funky, especially the Jetpack on Batman's back during his chase with Roxy.

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 04/10/01, Updated 04/10/01