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The Adventures of Batman & Robin is a collection of video game adaptations released from 1994 to 1995, starring the iconic DC Comics characters, Batman and Robin. These games were inspired by Batman: The Animated Series, which was renamed The Adventures of Batman and Robin in its second season. This SNES version was created and launched by Konami in December 1994.

This is an almost flawless side-scroller with only a few small drawbacks, and it deserves recognition as possibly one of the best Batman games out there. While you might assume that a game with a cartoon-like appearance wouldn't be that great, I will bet that this one will surpass your expectations, even if you are already expecting something good. I was quite impressed by it.

The Sega Genesis edition was developed by Clockwork Tortoise and the gameplay leans towards a "run-and-gun" style. (Image source)

The Story

Using a mix of strategy and strength, you control Batman’s efforts to save Gotham City from chaos and destruction. From your base in the Batcave, you'll rely on gadgets like smoke bombs, Batarangs, x-ray goggles, and everything else your utility belt can carry. Swinging between rooftops and speeding through dark alleys, you track down the sly Catwoman. In the Batmobile, you'll chase down Two-Face, and with Robin's help, you'll work to shut down The Penguin. But don't let your guard down—villains like Scarecrow, The Joker, Poison Ivy, Clayface, and their gangs are ready to defeat you and take over Gotham!

Box, manual and cartridge of the game. (Image source)

The Graphics and Sound

The devs at Konami did an incredible job of replicating the look of Batman: The Animated Series through the smooth animation in this game. From the way Batman's cape flows as he runs to other impressive visual effects, the game is packed with graphical details that truly stand out. The backgrounds in each stage also capture the atmosphere of the show, making it feel like you're actually playing a part in the series. There are even some Mode 7 graphics' rotation effects thrown in to further enhance the experience. I was really surprised and impressed by how well the SNES handled such smooth animations.

The music, a standout feature of the TV series which earned a Daytime Emmy award, is faithfully recreated here. Everything sounds just like the show, especially the iconic intro theme, which is perfectly executed. The background music (BGM) on every level fits the mood, whether it's an intense chase or a climactic boss battle. Once again, I’m amazed at the quality of audio the SNES could produce for this game.

https://youtu.be/D9qaDgx2Xu8?si=XC8PHDXJCVXGuhDB Gameplay video sample of The Adventures of Batman & Robin on the SNES. Watch in 360p for near TV resolution of that time.

The Gameplay

This is one of the best side-scrolling games I've ever played. Sure, you spend a lot of time fighting enemies, but each level has different objectives too. For example, in the "Fowl Play" level, you not only defeat enemies but also rescue museum workers. Each level brings something new, which keeps things interesting. I also like that every level has a different villain. The first level features the Joker, where your goal is to chase him down, and there’s even a fun rollercoaster segment during the chase. The game keeps things fresh with different villains like Poison Ivy, Penguin, Catwoman, Two-Face, Scarecrow, The Riddler, and Clayface from the animated series. In Two-Face's level, you get to chase him in the Batmobile, which is an exciting car chase! Each level feels like a different story, and the gameplay is truly remarkable.

Even on easy mode, this game is challenging. Every level has its difficult moments. For example, wait until you reach the "Riddle Me This..." level – it's quite hard, and it might even make you rethink playing chess!

The game is tough, but the challenge is fun, which makes it worth playing. Also, at the end, you have to fight all the bosses again, which is quite tough. The game will definitely make you think and strategize at different points.

If you start on easy, you'll probably want to try it again on medium and hard. There’s plenty of replay value in beating your favorite villains again. You also get passwords after each level, which lets you continue from where you left off. Once you beat it on all difficulties, there isn't much left for replay, but while it lasts, it's very fun!

My Verdict

In my view, The Adventures of Batman & Robin truly pushed the SNES to its limits with its impressive graphics and immersive soundtrack. The gameplay is top-notch, making it one of the best action/adventure experiences available on the console. Batman fans, especially those who loved the show, will definitely appreciate it. Even casual gamers looking for a solid action/adventure title should give it a try. While it would have been great to see more villains like the Mad Hatter, Bane, Killer Croc, or Ras Al Ghul, the SNES hardware could only handle so much. I have to give credit to Konami for getting the most out of a 16-bit system.

Play it on the wonderful Super Nintendo or play it on an excellent emulator.

Let's keep on gaming in the free world!