Some of the Lego series problems return, but the game is still as charming and fun.
This time it's Batman's turn to get the treatment, and I'm happy to report that for as quickly as this came out after Lego Indiana Jones, it didn't lose any of its charm or quality. Actually, it's the complete opposite, as they actually improved on the formula. Namely, they gave us 30 levels (as opposed to the usual 15) of unique content, and a more dynamic combat system than in previous versions.
For as simple as this game is, it's ridiculously fun; there's just something about watching Batman punch a goon in the face and send said goon flying across the screen. Also, all of the villains come with their special abilities intact. So whether it the Joker's electric joy buzzer, Catwoman's whip (yee-haw!), or Riddler's mind-control staff, they're all there to be used during gameplay to help solve the game's simple puzzles (or just provide a cheap thrill).
Despite all of the fun that the Lego formula provides, there are still three sore spots that need be addressed, and I say "still" because these problems have existed since the very first Traveller's Tales Lego game: bad camera angles, stupid A.I., and lack of online multiplayer.
If you're going to create a game that involves loot collecting, and then set it up so that you lose some of that loot every time you die, you have to make sure the player can see what they're doing so they lose as little as possible. Certain levels will cause you to fall to your death repeatedly thanks to a quirky camera angle, and it really is frustrating when you come up short because of it.
The friendly A.I. does enough to get you through the game, and it's nice that the amount of damage they do has been increased so they aren't dead total dead weight like in previous Lego titles. But it still has a few bats in the belfry. You'll be amazed by the places your allies will get themselves stuck, and you'll be irritated by the fact you have to back and un-stick them. While it's tempting to just leave them wherever they are to wallow in their own stupidity, you can't do that; sooner or later, you're going to need them to progress through the game's puzzles.
Finally, online multiplayer is way overdue to be included in these titles, especially seeing as they are so much fun to play as a two-player game. This is a horrendous oversight, as this was one thing that could have taken his title right over the top. Gamers could easily lose hours of their lives to this game if we could partner up with our buddies and slap some goons around, and the fact that it isn't there is so completely blatant it isn't even funny. If you're going to make a game multiplayer, then go all the way.
With all of the complaints out of the way, I still can't deny that this game is anything short of charming and fun, and the value is incredibly high thanks to the ability to re-play any level, at any time, with any character and hunt for more loot. If you're a fan of Batman, a fan of Lego, or just looking for high-quality casual title, this one is definitely worth looking into.