So companion apps to big budget games are all the rage now. Joy. Though I’ve never been a fan of buying an additional app on top of my $60 game purchase, even if it’s optional, that doesn’t mean I’m completely against the idea either (and yes, I’m aware that buying $25 Dead or Alive DLC makes me a huge hypocrite). Luckily, the upcoming fighting-game companion to WB Montreal’s Batman: Arkham Origins looks like it may actually be pretty enjoyable.
The app is out now for iOS, and from what I understand it’s essentially a simplified, mobile take on one on one, Batman vs. villain combat. Though it seems hard to believe that the caped crusader and Harvey Dent would settle their issues over a straight boxing match, I’m willing to suspend my disbelief since this is an iPhone app we’re talking about. The controls are of course touch-based, with a single tap handling punches, multiple taps triggering combos, and swipe/hold motions translating to in-game blocks. There are apparently unlockables to be had as well, including but not limited to extra Batsuits and fighting stances.
Beyond all of that, there is some outside incentive for success in your tap-fueled beat down of Gotham’s thugs, and it comes in the form of “cross-platform unlocks.” There are no specific details yet, but it sounds like players who go hard with this companion app will be in for some fun extra content when they get their hands on Batman: Arkham Origins next week. I’d say that’s pretty cool, if you’re into that.
Batman: Arkham Origins is available on PS3, Xbox 360, and Wii U on October 25th, so grab the app fast if you want to score those unlocks before release day.