Batman: Arkham Origins Walkthrough

1. Introduction

“Batman: Arkham Origins” is developed by WB Games Montréal and features a darker tone compared to its predecessors. The game introduces new characters, side missions, and challenges while retaining the core elements of the Arkham series’ gameplay. With a sprawling open-world environment, intricate combat mechanics, and a deep narrative, the game offers a rich experience that can be overwhelming without proper guidance.

2. Main Story Walkthrough

2.1. Prologue: A Cold, Cold Heart

The game begins with Batman’s encounter with the infamous Black Mask, who has put out a contract on the Dark Knight. This prologue sets the stage for the story, introducing players to the game’s setting and basic mechanics. Players will navigate through the Gotham City Police Department (GCPD) and learn the fundamental combat and stealth mechanics.

Objective: Escape the GCPD and confront Black Mask.

• Explore the GCPD: Begin by familiarizing yourself with the basic controls and combat mechanics. Use your gadgets to navigate the environment and defeat enemies. Focus on learning how to counter and use gadgets effectively.
• Confront Black Mask: Once you reach the top floors of the GCPD, you’ll face Black Mask in a boss fight. Use your combat skills and gadgets to take him down. After the fight, you’ll receive a lead on the Joker, who becomes a central figure in the story.

2.2. Act 1: The Search for the Joker

In this act, Batman begins his investigation into the Joker’s whereabouts while contending with the assassins sent to kill him.

Objective: Track down the Joker and confront the assassins.

• Investigate the Crime Scenes: Use Detective Mode to scan and analyze clues at various crime scenes. This will help you understand the Joker’s plans and track his movements.
• Defeat the Assassins: Throughout the city, you’ll encounter several assassins, each with unique combat styles and abilities. Defeating them will progress the story and provide valuable information on the Joker’s whereabouts.

Key Boss Fights:

• Deathstroke: Located at the top of the Gotham City skyscraper. Use the environment to your advantage and focus on countering his attacks.
• Copperhead: Found in the sewers. Her fast and unpredictable attacks require quick reflexes and precise countering.

2.3. Act 2: Gotham’s Underworld

As Batman delves deeper into the criminal underworld, he encounters familiar foes and uncovers more about the Joker’s plans.

Objective: Navigate Gotham’s underworld and uncover the Joker’s scheme.

• Investigate the Asylum: Explore the Gotham City Asylum, where you’ll face off against various enemies and solve puzzles. Use your gadgets to access locked areas and gather information.
• Encounter the Penguin: The Penguin has become a major player in Gotham’s criminal world. Track him down and deal with his henchmen. This encounter will lead you to more clues about the Joker.

Key Boss Fights:

• The Electrocutioner: Fights are mostly straightforward, involving dodging his electric attacks and using counterattacks.
• Black Mask (Final Encounter): This encounter reveals more about the Joker’s manipulations and sets up the final act of the game.

2.4. Act 3: The Final Showdown

The final act focuses on the culmination of Batman’s investigation and his ultimate confrontation with the Joker.

Objective: Confront the Joker and stop his plans.

• Navigate the Gotham City Skyline: Use your grappling hook and other gadgets to traverse the city’s skyscrapers and locate the Joker’s hideout.
• Final Boss Fight: The Joker’s final confrontation is a multi-stage battle that tests all the skills you’ve acquired throughout the game. Use your gadgets and combat techniques effectively to defeat him.

Key Tips:

• Manage Health: Ensure you have enough health and gadgets before entering the final battle. Use any remaining resources wisely.
• Exploit Weaknesses: The Joker has various attack patterns. Pay attention to his movements and exploit openings to land critical hits.

3. Side Quests and Optional Missions

In addition to the main story, “Batman: Arkham Origins” features a variety of side quests and optional missions that enrich the gameplay experience.

3.1. Enigma’s Side Quests

Enigma (The Riddler) presents players with numerous puzzles and riddles scattered throughout Gotham.

Objectives:

• Collect Enigma Data Packs: These are hidden throughout the city and can be found using Detective Mode. Collecting all Data Packs will lead to uncovering Enigma’s larger plot.
• Solve Riddles and Puzzles: Engage with Enigma’s challenges to earn rewards and unlock additional story elements. Completing these puzzles often requires using specific gadgets or exploring hidden areas.

Tips:

• Use Detective Mode: This helps locate hidden items and clues.
• Refer to Maps and Guides: Some puzzles can be quite challenging. Utilize online maps and guides if needed.

3.2. Anarky’s Tags

Anarky leaves behind graffiti tags throughout Gotham, each representing a criminal act or a piece of his ideology.

Objectives:

• Find and Destroy Tags: Locate all of Anarky’s tags to complete this side quest. Some tags are hidden in less accessible areas, requiring special gadgets to reach.
• Investigate Anarky’s Motives: Completing this side quest provides insight into Anarky’s character and motivations.

Tips:

• Explore Thoroughly: Tags may be located in high or hard-to-reach places.
• Use the Grappling Hook: This helps access higher platforms and hidden locations.

3.3. Cyrus Pinkney’s Plaques

These collectibles are plaques scattered across the city, each providing historical information about Gotham.

Objectives:

• Collect All Plaques: Find and scan each plaque to learn more about Gotham’s history and unlock additional content.
• Complete the Collection: Finding all plaques is required for 100% completion of the game.

Tips:

• Use Detective Mode: Plaques are often hidden and may require scanning with Detective Mode to reveal their locations.
• Follow Online Guides: For a more efficient search, use online guides or maps.

3.4. Crime in Progress

Throughout Gotham, players can respond to various crimes in progress, ranging from petty thefts to larger criminal activities.

Objectives:

• Prevent Crimes: Engage with and stop ongoing crimes to earn experience points and maintain order in Gotham.
• Assist Civilians: Completing these missions can also lead to finding useful items and information.

Tips:

• Prioritize High-Risk Crimes: Some crimes are more challenging and offer better rewards.
• Monitor the Crime Map: The in-game map will highlight ongoing criminal activities.

4. Collectibles and Upgrades

Collecting items and upgrades is essential for enhancing Batman’s abilities and improving gameplay.

4.1. Gadgets and Upgrades

Objectives:

• Acquire and Upgrade Gadgets: Use WayneTech points to upgrade gadgets like the Batclaw, Remote Claw, and Glue Grenade. Upgrades can significantly enhance Batman’s combat and exploration capabilities.
• Complete Challenges: Some gadgets require completing specific challenges or objectives to unlock additional upgrades.

Tips:

• Focus on Essential Upgrades: Prioritize upgrades that improve combat efficiency and exploration capabilities.
• Experiment with Gadgets: Different gadgets are useful in various scenarios, so experiment with them to find the best combinations.

4.2. Hidden Items and Easter Eggs

Objectives:

• Find Hidden Items: Scour Gotham for hidden items and Easter eggs that provide additional lore or gameplay benefits.
• Unlock Special Content: Some hidden items are tied to special content or achievements.

Tips:

• Explore Thoroughly: Many hidden items require careful exploration of Gotham’s environment.
• Consult Online Resources: Use online guides to find elusive items and Easter eggs.

5. Strategy and Tips

5.1. Combat Strategies

Objectives:

• Master Combat Techniques: Learn and practice advanced combat techniques such as counters, gadget usage, and combo attacks.
• Utilize Environmental Objects: Use the environment to your advantage in fights, such as throwing objects or using vantage points.

Tips:

• Focus on Timing: Precision and timing are key to successful combat. Pay attention to enemy cues and counter effectively.
• Use Gadgets Wisely: Gadgets can provide tactical advantages and help in crowd control.

5.2. Stealth and Predator Tactics

Objectives:

• Use Stealth Tactics: Employ stealth tactics to avoid detection and take down enemies silently.
• Plan Your Approach: Carefully plan your movements and use gadgets to create distractions or set traps.

Tips:

• Stay Hidden: Use shadows and high vantage points to remain hidden from enemies.
• Employ Gadgets: Gadgets like the Remote Claw and Batarangs can be useful for stealth takedowns.

5.3. Exploration and Navigation

Objectives:

• Explore Gotham City: Thoroughly explore the open world to find collectibles, side quests, and hidden areas.
• Utilize Navigation Tools: Use gadgets and in-game tools to navigate difficult areas and uncover hidden secrets.

Tips:

• Use the Grappling Hook: This gadget is essential for accessing rooftops and high platforms. Master its use to simplify exploration.
• Consult the Map: The in-game map provides markers for important locations, side quests, and collectibles. Keep an eye on it to avoid missing critical elements.

5.4. Resource Management

Objectives:

• Manage Resources: Properly manage health packs, gadget charges, and other resources to maintain efficiency throughout the game.
• Upgrade Strategically: Spend WayneTech points on upgrades that suit your playstyle and needs.

Tips:

• Prioritize Upgrades: Focus on upgrading gadgets and skills that will enhance your effectiveness in both combat and exploration.
• Conserve Resources: Use health packs and gadgets wisely, especially during difficult boss fights or challenging missions.

6. Conclusion

“Batman: Arkham Origins” offers a rich and immersive experience, blending intricate storytelling with engaging gameplay mechanics. The game’s open-world environment, diverse side quests, and complex combat system provide players with countless hours of content. Whether you’re delving into the main storyline or exploring the myriad side quests and collectibles, this guide aims to enhance your experience and help you navigate the challenges of Gotham City.

As you embark on your journey through “Batman: Arkham Origins,” remember that the key to success lies in mastering the game’s mechanics, exploring every corner of Gotham, and strategically approaching each mission. With this comprehensive walkthrough, you’ll be well-equipped to face the Dark Knight’s adversaries and uncover the mysteries of Gotham City.