BATMAN - The Telltale Series - Episode 1: Realm of Shadows Reviews
When it's obsessing over the broken politics of Gotham, this alternate take on DC's most famous franchise promises plenty – but lacklustre heroics and writing inconsistencies really drag it down. There's reason to be excited by some of the fictional deviations that the developer's taking, but they're yet to manifest themselves in any meaningful way, and the overemphasis on tired series tropes will draw many a groan. It's obviously too early to determine where this story is going to go, but our biggest concern right now is that Telltale isn't entirely sure either.
This first episode of their Batman story is full of Bruce Wayne than Batman. Surely, it makes the others think that it wouldn’t be wise to have more Batman gameplay as it’s not an action-button smashing game, but I’d rather look to into a point of view where Bruce Wayne has started his journey as the Dark Knight and the origins of his arch-enemies. It’s a great episode to start, Realm of Shadows shows the potential of Telltale’s Batman story and surely the next episode is something we don’t want to miss.
While there were a couple key choices throughout the episode, the game played mostly like an overarching story with different dialogue options. With what appears like 4 more episodes, we have yet to see any real game changing plot options but I still think there is plenty of time and this was an incredible start. What it truly needed was more of that friggin Batmobile. Seriously, How cool was the Batmobile Lambo? The thing friggin went from Red to Black with camouflage tech then Armored up while also opening the back for jets. LAMBO BATMOBILE GG Telltale. Click HERE to see the GIF
The first foray into the world of Telltale Games Batman is full of mystery, intrigue and a hard edged adult portrayal of the world. Its technical issues bring the experience down, however, this first entry its the ground running with an interesting story and gives a first episode that not only is gripping but also left me salivating for more.
Batman: The Telltale Series has everything you would expect from Telltale: an engaging plot, important choices and a ton of dialogues, but we want to see more of the new gadgets and the link mechanic in the next episode.
Review in Italian | Read full review
Technical issues aside, I really enjoyed the first episode of Batman. I think what they’re doing with both the Batman and Bruce Wayne sections of the game are engaging, and I like the new mechanics that were added for the Batman sections.
Telltale wastes no time in establishing its Batman and the surprising thing is the studio is spending an equal amount of time on Bruce Wayne. The elements are familiar, but the focus is rarely this evenly split. An strong premise, sold takes on familiar characters, and great fight scenes bring this first episode to a strong conclusion. Looking forward to see what's next.
Telltale’s Batman slowly transforms its routine story into a promising mystery
A disappointing start to what should be a potential rich concept, with an overfamiliar storyline and bland presentation.
There's plenty to look forward to with Batman - The Telltale Series and fans of the studio, and especially fans of the character, can rightfully get excited for the next few months ahead. Under the cowl, and just as often not, "Episode One: Realm of Shadows" is a worthy introduction to comics' greatest hero.
This is a Batman game where it's kind of more fun when you're not Batman
I should not feel bored in a Batman game, but bored is what I felt for most of it.
In 'Realm of Shadows' we see the usual monolithic monument of Telltaleness, wrapped up in a cape and cowl. We also see the shadow of something different, something new. It's not ready yet, not fully formed, and could die by the end of the series or even by the second episode, but it could also bring their craft to a new level. Either way, I don't see a need to wash my hands of it just yet.
As the first episode in the series, Realm of Shadows offers a compelling start to what could be an enjoyable Batman adventure. Performance could be better - notwithstanding other issues plaguing PC gamers - and Telltale's gameplay is getting pretty old but Batman: The Telltale Series more than holds up with its story-telling, art and mechanics.
Telltale really knocked it out of the park on this one. I really hope that the rest of the season provides the same, refreshing look at Gotham that "Realm of Shadows" provided. They have introduced lots of interesting characters, and I am really excited to see where they take them all. Keep an eye out for episode 2, "Children of Arkham" releasing in September!!
Realm of Shadows is a great first episode in what is sure to be some of Telltale’s finest work. The presentation is both familiar and unique, with a strong comic book vibe that takes clear inspiration from Nolan’s trilogy (particularly in the music department). If you’re a fan of Telltale’s previous work, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in their latest offering.
The first episode of Batman: The Telltale Series sets a foundation that gives Bruce Wayne the same narrative importance as Batman. The game allows the player a lot of choice throughout the episode to determine how both characters will respond to the world and shape it through those responses.The new engine, the voice acting, music, and sound breathe life into a two dimensional Gotham. The graphics are definitely the best Telltale has ever produced, but there was a slight, but noticeable, judder in a couple areas. The story and dialogue are very good. This is only the first episode, but it promises great potential for future episodes.
For now? It’s a good start. I’m not hooked like the first season of The Walking Dead or Wolf Among Us, but it’s looking like more of a slow burn with a lot of potential. Telltale sets up a lot of plot threads in this first episode, and it’s actually pretty impressive how many bit players they’ve introduced in just an hour and a half.
An effective style and a good pacing. Nnot all scenes are built with the same attention, but the main character models are wonderful, and the plot seems to have a dark twitst we are eager to explore.
Review in Italian | Read full review
Overall, Telltale’s Batman Episode 1 is one of the best and most complete experiences to be found in one episode of a Telltale game. The episode is directed expertly and pacing is very well executed; you’ll have time to experience all of the multi-faceted lives of Bruce Wayne but you’re also introduced to a wide array of classic characters without feeling overwhelmed. You get the eery sense that something is brewing in Gotham City and I can’t wait to find out what it is in the episodes to come.