Batman Forever

Overview

Batman Forever is a 2D side-scrolling brawler developed by Probe and published by Acclaim for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Genesis, Game Boy, and Game Gear throughout 1995. It was later ported to the PC in 1996.

Loosely based on the 1995 film of the same name, up to two players team up as either Batman or his sidekick Robin as they set out to foil the plans of criminals Two-Face and The Riddler.

Unlike traditional beat-'em-up games, Batman Forever combines 2D platforming with fighting game controls (in similar vein to Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero). The game features a non-linear level structure (complete with puzzles) and fully-digitized actors.

Acclaim also released a second beat-'em-up for arcades in 1996 with the same name. Developed by Iguana, this version was a traditional belt-scrolling beat-'em-up with pre-rendered 3D graphics and faster-placed gameplay. It was released on home consoles as Batman Forever: The Arcade Game.

Gameplay

Players can choose between playing as the Caped Crusader or his sidekick, Robin or can even add a second controller for co-operative play.

The fighting aspect of the game resembles the engine for the "Mortal Kombat" games, right down to the motion-captured characters and the basic fighting moves (uppercut, high and low punch, etc).

Players can also choose what gadgets to bring along in each level, which each gadget having it's own pro's and cons. Arguably, the most useful gadget is the grappling hook, which gets the character to higher parts of the level that couldn't be reached before.

The game includes many secrets, such as different hidden gadgets and multiple "riddles" from The Riddler himself.