LEGO® Batman™: Legacy of the Dark Knight
"A brilliant Dark Knight, haunted by his own engine."
About
LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight is an open-world action-adventure set in Gotham City. Players control Batman and his allies, engaging in combat that adopts the free-flow system of the Arkham series. The gameplay revolves around exploring the city, solving puzzles by using character-specific abilities, and completing story missions. The narrative offers a new Batman story told with the characteristic humor and charm of the LEGO game franchise.
Verdict
LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight successfully transplants the rhythmic combat of the Arkham series into its brick-based world. The result is a funny, fan-service-filled tour of Gotham that's a joy to explore. This new ambition, however, comes at a cost. Widespread performance problems, game-breaking bugs, and a restrictive co-op mode betray a lack of polish that holds the game back from its own potential.
You'll like it if …
- +You wanted a lighter, funnier take on the Arkham combat formula.
- +You are a Batman fan who loves spotting deep-cut references.
- +Open-world collectible hunting is your main reason to play.
You'll dislike it if …
- −Technical hitches and frequent frame drops ruin your enjoyment.
- −You expect the classic LEGO formula with character-swapping and cheat-like red bricks.
- −Bugs that can corrupt your save file are an immediate dealbreaker.
Breakdown
- +Successfully adapts the rhythmic, free-flow combat from the Batman: Arkham series.
- +The blend of brawling, gliding, and puzzle-solving creates a satisfying core loop.
- +Batmobile controls are a fun way to traverse the open world.
- −Combat can feel like a simplified, less-polished version of its inspiration.
- −Missions can feel overly guided, removing much of the challenge for veteran players.
- +A large open-world Gotham filled with side missions and collectibles to discover.
- +Plenty of vehicles and costumes to unlock, providing cosmetic variety.
- −Removes traditional LEGO game features like meaningful red brick modifiers and character-swapping Free Play.
- −The character roster feels smaller and less varied than in previous LEGO titles.
- −Disappointing DLC offerings limit the game's long-term replay value.
- +Blends a serious Batman story with the lighthearted, charming humor of the LEGO series.
- +Packed with references and deep cuts from Batman movies, shows, and comics.
- +The main story arc is compelling and well-paced for most of its length.
- −The story feels rushed towards its conclusion.
- −Some character portrayals come across as shallow imitations of their source material.
- +Visually impressive use of Unreal Engine 5 creates a detailed and atmospheric Gotham.
- +Sound design is high quality, with satisfying punch-and-kick effects.
- −Suffers from significant performance issues, including frequent stuttering and frame drops.
- −The Batmobile sections are particularly prone to severe lag spikes.
- −Voice acting is inconsistent, with some performances feeling out of place.
- +The core user interface for combat and navigation is clean and understandable.
- −Plagued by bugs, crashes, and glitches that can halt progress.
- −Some players report losing hours of progress due to corrupted save files.
- −Local co-op is poorly implemented, forcing one player to always be Batman.
- −Unlike previous titles, local co-op on PC requires two controllers.
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