OPINION PIECE

Batman Arkham Shadow on Quest 3: Standalone VR has never looked so good

Batman Arkham Shadow on Quest 3: Standalone VR has never looked so good

Batman: Arkham Shadow launches today for Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S. A game that sets new standards for standalone VR.

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The first gameplay trailer and my play session at this year's Gamescom already hinted at it. Now, after spending a few hours immersed in the VR game, I know it: Batman Arkham Shadow sets new audiovisual standards on the Quest 3 standalone VR headset.

  • Disclaimer: Our review version of Batman: Arkham Shadow was unlocked on Friday, October 18th. A full review will follow in the coming days.

An atmospheric dance in the shadows

Camouflaj's entry in the Arkham series is a true AAA game with a cinematic production, a soundtrack that draws me deeper into the dark corners of Gotham with every note, and graphics that I would not have expected on a standalone VR headset.

The development team has succeeded in creating an atmosphere that is perfectly suited to a Batman game in the Arkham universe, thanks to the dense level design, an art style between comic and realism, and the precise use of light, shadows, and reflections.

At its best, Batman: Arkham Shadow almost reaches PC VR levels. For example, when I trudge through reflective puddles with moonlight behind me and the shadow of the mighty Bat slowly building in front of me. Not to mention the elaborately orchestrated cutscenes, which feature experienced voice actors such as Troy Baker and Hollywood star Elijah Wood.

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Great, but not perfect

Of course, Quest 3's performance resources are limited, and if you look closely, you will also notice some flat textures or edge flicker in Batman Arkham Shadow. I also experienced some frame rate drops — short ones, but they were there.

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So the VR blockbuster is not perfect (yet). But no standalone VR game has come close to this quality.

In my review, which will be published here on MIXED in the next few days, you can find out whether these flaws become more frequent in the course of the 12-hour campaign and whether the story, combat mechanics and detective elements come together to form a well-rounded gaming experience.

Interested in Batman Arkham Shadow? Then follow us on Facebook or X or share your experience in the comments.

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