Lego Batman 2: DC Super Heroes transports the series’ problems to an open world, but winning humor shines through the clouds. High above the crime-ridden streets of Gotham City, a spotlight beckons the Caped Crusader.
It’s an irresistible symbol for a man who lives to vanquish evildoers, and the latest game bearing his name makes a similar siren call. Eye-catching visual design and clever jokes draw in those who idolize Batman, and the collect-’em-all nature of the levels serves to keep you invested for hours.
When the Joker joins forces with Lex Luthor, only bad things can happen. Political aspirations serve as the driving force behind the mischievous duo’s latest harebrained scheme, but it’s not Luthor’s attempt at rigging an election that stands out. Rather, it’s the goofy storytelling that’s so enjoyable. Cutscenes are littered with clever jokes that should make DC aficionados flash a knowing smile. The interplay between Batman and Superman is particularly funny. Bats tries to keep his jealousy bottled up, but his feelings surface as mean-spirited jabs and 4-year-old-caliber pouting that reveal Bruce Wayne’s petty side. Robin’s adoration of Superman plays wonderfully into this dynamic, creating hilarious moments whenever these three are onscreen together.
Once the story gets under way, you’re set loose in Gotham City to roam and venture as you please. The transition from linear level progression to open-world freedom is the biggest change from previous Lego games. Needy citizens call for help, tantalizing collectibles dangle just out of reach, and distractions surface every few steps. In a game already bursting with content, having so many places to go and things to collect is almost overwhelming–in a good way–and could have propelled Lego Batman 2 to new heights, if only the execution were better.
Lego Batman 2 contains the same strengths and weaknesses as the many games that came before it. Worthwhile additions such as the open world show the potential for where this series could go, but the core mechanics suffer from the same problems in every iteration. Although it’s still as fun as ever to collect Lego bricks and watch the cutscenes, the lack of real change leads to the feeling that you’ve seen all this before. Batman is a meticulous self-improver; it would be nice if his Lego games had the same mentality.
Score: 6.5 / fair
