Batman (1989 video game)
| Industry | Video game development and publishing |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1983 |
| Headquarters | United Kingdom |
| Products | Batman: The Movie (video game) |
Batman—also referred to as Batman: The Movie'—is an action video game created and released by Ocean Software, drawing its inspiration from the 1989 motion picture. The initial launch occurred on 11 September 1989 for the Commodore 64 and ZX Spectrum, with subsequent editions made available for Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Atari ST, MS-DOS, and MSX platforms.
Gameplay
The gameplay comprises five distinct stages, each reflecting pivotal moments from the film. Every level includes a countdown timer and a health indicator, represented by Batman’s visage gradually changing into that of the Joker. Depleting either health or time results in losing a life. The stages offer diverse gameplay mechanics:
- The opening stage is a side-scrolling platformer set at the Axis Chemical Plant, where players control Batman facing off against Jack Napier prior to his transformation into the Joker. Combat involves using Batarangs and a grapple gun to overcome foes and traverse platforms.
- In the second stage, players drive the Batmobile through Gotham City traffic, skillfully avoiding obstacles and employing a grapple to execute sharp turns. Failing to complete three turns results in encountering a police blockade and losing a life.
- The third stage is a puzzle located in the Batcave, challenging players to select three contaminated consumer products containing Smilex from eight available options. Incorrect selections cause a reduction in health.
- During the fourth stage, Batman pilots the Batwing amidst the Joker’s parade, tasked with destroying balloons filled with Smilex while evading parade floats and other hazards.
- The final stage returns to side-scrolling action as Batman ascends Gotham City Cathedral in an effort to prevent the Joker’s helicopter escape.
Release
Commodore UK collaborated with Ocean Software to include Batman The Movie as part of a bundle with Amiga 500 computers. From October 1989 through September 1990, Amiga 500 machines sold in the United Kingdom featured Batman-themed packaging containing this game alongside titles such as The NewZealand Story, F/A-18 Interceptor, and Deluxe Paint II published by Electronic Arts. Initially planned for 10,000 units, total sales eventually reached 186,000 copies, establishing it as Commodore’s most lucrative Amiga bundle.
Reception
Batman received several honors including Crash Smash, YS Megagame, SU Classic, and C+VG Hit awards. It achieved number one on the Spectrum sales charts in February 1990 and was recognized as Game of the Year by Crash magazine. While Computer Gaming World recommended the Amiga version for enthusiasts of action games, it pointed out technical issues present in the Commodore 64 edition. Nonetheless, Commodore Format regarded it as among the finest movie-based games available on that system.