Batman Arkham Shadow Delivers Familiar Combat Ahead of October Release

Despite turning heads with a twist into virtual reality, Batman Arkham Shadow is currently the flagship game for the Meta Quest 3 headset. There aren't many Quest 3 exclusives yet, but the success (or failure) of the Arkham Asylum prequel could be a defining moment for Meta's latest VR device.

During the Gamescom Opening Night Live event on August 20, 2024, Meta finally revealed gameplay of the upcoming VR game. Despite being announced a few months ago, there was no hint of the Arkham-style combat that Meta shared. However, that changed during the recent event, and it certainly looks like an Arkham title - if not a little toned down for virtual reality.

Much like the flatscreen Arkham games, players with a Meta Quest 3 headset will be able to become the iconic DC superhero, diving across Gotham as the Caped Crusader. The story, set before the event of Asylum, yet after Origins, sees you chasing down the Rat King, as you smack terrified criminals and sneak up on unsuspecting foes.

Of course, considering the nausea-inducing experience behind virtual reality games, the familar Arkham combat isn't as fast-paced as Rocksteady Games' version of The Dark Knight. But, the counter system is still here in a new form, and it looks satisfying to give an enemy a broken jaw in a flurry of strikes. 

Thankfully, the stealth looks like it sticks with the beloved formula, allowing you to skulk around in the shadows and choke out patrolling criminals like the Arkham series introduced.

Unfortunately, there's still no solid release date for Arkham Shadow. While the Batman Arkham Shadow announcement gave us a broad Fall 2024 window, we've got a minor update in the form of an 'October 2024' release month. However, no launch date is set just yet, but considering the spooky vibes, a late October release wouldn't surprise us.