Batman Returns

About

Batman Returns is a side-scrolling beat 'em up that tasks you with wading through waves of goons across seven stages. As Batman, you punch, kick, and grapple your way through Gotham’s streets, rooftops, and even a circus train. Each level ends with a boss fight against villains like Penguin’s henchmen or the Organ Grinder, demanding quick timing and combo execution. The controls are tight for the genre, with a focus on fluid movement and basic but effective attacks. While the difficulty spikes in later stages, the game rewards persistence with satisfying knockouts and progression. What sticks out is the game’s faithful adaptation of the 1992 film’s tone and characters. Levels mirror key scenes, from rescuing Selina Kyle in a plaza to battling Penguin in an icy lair. The inclusion of the Batmobile segment, where you mow down enemies in a vehicular side-scroll, adds a neat change of pace. Though overshadowed by later Batman games, it holds a cult following for its punchy combat and nostalgic 90s presentation. Retro fans who miss classic beat ‘em ups might find it a worthwhile dig through the dust.

Storyline

Scene 1 takes place in Gotham's Plaza, where Batman fights numerous Red Triangle Circus gangsters and saves Selina Kyle from the Stungun Clown who took her hostage. In Scene 2, Batman fights the Circus gang throughout Gotham City's Streets, facing the Tattooed Strongman as the boss. Climbing on the rooftops of Scene 3, Batman encounters Catwoman, who escapes to an abandoned building where Penguin's setting a trap for Batman, but he manages to take on Catwoman and Penguin on Scene 4. On Scene 5, Batman drives the Batmobile and uses a machine gun to destroy Penguin's Campaign Van. Moving to Scene 6, Batman goes to the Circus Train and defeats Penguin's right-hand man, the Organ Grinder. Penguin escapes to the abandoned Arctict World on Scene 7, where Batman destroys his Duck Vehicle and ultimately gains the upper hand on Penguin once and for all. Meanwhile, Catwoman escapes and watches as Batman gets called for another adventure. Various members of the Red Triangle Circus Gang attack Batman throughout the game.