Batman is returning to the big screen with Batman: The Brave and the Bold, one of the most highly anticipated entries in James Gunn and Peter Safran’s rebooted DC Universe (DCU). There’s no set release date yet but rumors are pointing to 2027 as the most likely timeframe.
Unlike past incarnations, this film will spotlight a very different dynamic: Bruce Wayne mentoring his son Damian Wayne, a lethal assassin-turned-Robin. Inspired by Grant Morrison’s iconic comic run, the movie promises a fresh take on the Caped Crusader and his crime-fighting legacy.
Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming film, from casting rumors to storyline details and how it fits into the new DCU.
Director: Andy Muschietti
Andy Muschietti, who recently helmed The Flash, has been confirmed as the director. Muschietti’s track record of combining emotional storytelling with blockbuster spectacle—demonstrated in It and The Flash—positions him well to tackle the complex father-son relationship at the heart of this story. His ability to handle large ensemble casts may also come in handy, as the film is rumored to introduce multiple members of the Bat-Family.
Story: Batman Meets His Assassin Son
Unlike previous Batmen who worked solo or slowly brought in partners, this version of Bruce Wayne is immediately thrown into one of his most personal missions yet—raising his son. Damian Wayne, the biological child of Bruce and Talia al Ghul, was trained by the League of Assassins before being thrust into Gotham’s world of justice and restraint.
The story is expected to explore:
- Damian’s struggle between his violent upbringing and Batman’s moral code.
- A potentially expanding Bat-Family, including Nightwing, Batgirl, or Red Hood.
- Deeper DCU lore, setting the stage for broader universe crossovers.
This marks the first major cinematic portrayal of Damian Wayne, a fan-favorite in the comics known for his brash attitude, elite skills, and emotional complexity.
Release Date: 2027 Is a Possibility
While no official date has been set, some insiders have pointed to a potential release window around October 1, 2027. This would place the film as one of the key entries in the early wave of the DCU’s new “Chapter One: Gods and Monsters” slate.
James Gunn has made it clear that projects in the DCU will not be rushed. Script quality and casting are being prioritized to ensure a cohesive and well-developed cinematic universe.
Casting Rumors: Who Will Be the New Batman?
Casting has yet to be announced, but speculation is running rampant. A few names that have floated around fan discussions and rumor mills include:
- Scott Eastwood – Seen by fans as having the look and gravitas to portray a hardened Batman.
- Alan Ritchson – Known for his imposing build and recent success in Reacher, he’s expressed interest in playing Bruce Wayne.
- Jensen Ackles – A popular fan pick who has voiced Batman in animated films and has long been tied to the role by online communities.
No actor has been officially cast as Damian Wayne either, but DC is reportedly looking for someone capable of portraying both physicality and emotional range.
Part of the New DCU, Not an Elseworlds Tale
Unlike Matt Reeves’ The Batman series (which stars Robert Pattinson and will continue under the “DC Elseworlds” banner), The Brave and the Bold will be fully integrated into the mainline DCU continuity.
This means we could see crossovers with characters like Superman (who’s getting his own reboot in Superman [2025]), Green Lantern, and even Swamp Thing—all part of Gunn’s larger interconnected vision.
Gunn’s Commitment to Quality
James Gunn has emphasized that The Brave and the Bold will only move forward when the script is ready, stating that quality storytelling takes precedence over rushing to meet deadlines. This aligns with his broader DCU strategy: creating a unified, well-written, emotionally engaging superhero universe that blends grounded character work with high-stakes worldbuilding.
What Fans Can Expect
With a blend of action, emotional drama, and legacy-building, Batman: The Brave and the Bold is shaping up to be one of the most unique Batman films ever made. It’s not just a reboot—it’s a full reimagining of the Bat mythos through the lens of family, redemption, and legacy. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to DC films, this installment could be a major turning point for the franchise.
Key Details
“Batman: The Brave and the Bold” is a significant part of James Gunn and Peter Safran’s rebooted DC Universe (DCU), specifically falling under “Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters.” Here’s a breakdown of what’s known:
- Focus: The film will heavily feature the “Bat-Family,” with a central focus on Bruce Wayne’s relationship with his biological son, Damian Wayne, who will take on the mantle of Robin. This marks Damian Wayne’s live-action cinematic debut.
- Comic Inspiration: The movie will draw heavily from Grant Morrison’s acclaimed run on Batman comics, particularly the “Batman and Son” storyline. This storyline introduces Damian Wayne, a child raised as an assassin by his mother, Talia al Ghul, and his grandfather, Ra’s al Ghul.
- Batman’s Status: This Batman will not be an origin story. Instead, he will be a more seasoned and established Dark Knight, already having worked with the Justice League and other sidekicks. He’s described as being in the “prime of his career.”
- Director: Andy Muschietti, known for directing “The Flash” and the “It” films, is attached to direct.
- Separate from “The Batman”: This film is entirely separate from Matt Reeves’ “The Batman” universe starring Robert Pattinson. Pattinson’s Batman is part of the “DC Elseworlds” banner and will not be integrated into the main DCU.
- No Release Date Yet: While it’s part of the initial slate of DCU projects, “The Brave and the Bold” does not have an official release date. There have been indications that it might be a few years away, as DC Studios is prioritizing story and script development, not rushing production.
- No Confirmed Cast: As of now, no actors have been officially cast for Batman, Robin, or any other characters. James Gunn has emphasized that casting will only begin once the script is finalized.
- Villains: No specific villains have been confirmed, but given the “Batman and Son” storyline, it’s highly likely that Talia al Ghul and potentially the League of Assassins will play a significant role. The film may also feature lesser-known villains to allow Batman and Robin to establish their dynamic.
Why this reboot is significant:
- Damian Wayne’s Debut: This will be the first time Damian Wayne, a popular and unique Robin, gets a major live-action adaptation on the big screen.
- Focus on the Bat-Family: The film aims to introduce other members of the “Bat-Family,” a concept that has been a core part of Batman’s history but hasn’t been extensively explored in live-action films.
- Mature, Established Batman: This iteration of Batman will offer a different perspective from previous live-action portrayals, showcasing a Dark Knight who is already a veteran hero and navigating the complexities of fatherhood with a challenging son.
James Gunn has stated that the creative direction is paramount, and they won’t rush production until they have a screenplay they’re completely happy with. This suggests a careful and deliberate approach to bringing this new Batman story to life.
Stay tuned—casting announcements and teaser footage could drop in 2026 as development ramps up.
Batman Games in Order
Diving into the world of Batman games can be both exciting and overwhelming for new fans. The Arkham series stands as the definitive Batman gaming experience, offering players a chance to become the Dark Knight himself. To get the full Batman Arkham experience, players should follow the release order: starting with Arkham Asylum (2009), then Arkham City (2011), Arkham Origins (2013), and finally Arkham Knight (2015).
While some fans prefer to play the games in chronological story order (beginning with Origins), the gameplay mechanics evolve significantly between titles. Each game builds upon the previous one’s combat system and gadgets, making the release order more intuitive for most players. The series gradually expands from the confined corridors of Asylum to the open streets of Gotham City in Knight.
The Arkham series also includes important DLC content that enriches the story, such as Harley Quinn’s Revenge for Arkham City and various character episodes in Arkham Knight. These additional chapters provide deeper insights into Batman’s world and often bridge narrative gaps between the main games.
When discussing “Batman games in order,” it’s important to differentiate between the overarching series and the more specific “Arkhamverse” games, which follow a continuous storyline. Here’s a breakdown by release order:
The “Arkhamverse” Series (Mainline Games and Key Spin-offs by Release Date):
- Batman: Arkham Asylum (2009)
- Batman: Arkham City (2011)
- Batman: Arkham City Lockdown (2011) – Mobile game set between Asylum and City.
- Batman: Arkham Origins (2013) – Prequel to Arkham Asylum.
- Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate (2013) – Companion to Arkham Origins, primarily for handhelds.
- Batman: Arkham Knight (2015)
- Batman: Arkham Underworld (2016) – Mobile game (no longer available).
- Batman: Arkham VR (2016)
- Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League (2024) – Set in the Arkhamverse.
- Batman: Arkham Shadow (2024) – VR game set between Origins/Blackgate and Asylum.
Chronological Order of the “Arkhamverse” Story (for a continuous narrative):
- Batman: Arkham Origins
- Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate
- Batman: Arkham Shadow (VR game, fits in here)
- Batman: Arkham Underworld (less important to main narrative, but takes place before Asylum)
- Batman: Arkham Asylum
- Batman: Arkham City Lockdown (mobile, takes place between Asylum and City)
- Batman: Arkham City
- Batman: Arkham VR (takes place shortly before Knight)
- Batman: Arkham Knight
- Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League
Other Notable Batman Games (Outside of the Arkhamverse):
There have been many other Batman games over the years, often tied to specific films, comics, or animated series. Some popular examples include:
- Lego Batman series
- Batman: The Telltale Series (2016)
- Gotham Knights (2022) – A game set in Gotham City but explicitly not part of the Arkhamverse.
- Older titles like those based on the 1989 Batman film or the various animated series.
If you’re looking to play through the main story, the “Arkhamverse” games are the ones to focus on. Many fans recommend playing them in release order for the best experience, as later games often refine mechanics introduced in earlier ones.
Key Takeaways
- The Batman Arkham series is best played in release order: Asylum, City, Origins, and Knight for the smoothest gameplay progression.
- Each Batman game expands the playable area from a confined asylum to the entirety of Gotham City.
- DLC content like Harley Quinn’s Revenge and character episodes enhance the Batman experience with additional storylines.
Main Titles in the Batman Arkham Series
The Batman Arkham series, developed by Rocksteady Studios and published by Warner Bros. Games, revolutionized superhero video games with its fluid combat and immersive detective gameplay.
Batman: Arkham Asylum
Released in 2009, Batman: Arkham Asylum was the groundbreaking first entry that established the series’ iconic formula. The game takes place entirely within the walls of Gotham’s infamous mental institution after the Joker executes an elaborate plan to trap Batman inside.
Players navigate the claustrophobic halls of the asylum, confronting inmates and classic villains like Scarecrow, whose fear toxin sequences provide some of the game’s most memorable moments. Harley Quinn also makes her video game debut, serving as the Joker’s loyal lieutenant throughout the chaos.
The game introduced the “FreeFlow” combat system that became a hallmark of the series. This innovative approach let players chain attacks, counters, and gadgets seamlessly. Detective Mode, another key feature, allowed Batman to analyze crime scenes and track enemies.
Batman: Arkham City
Following the success of Asylum, Rocksteady expanded their vision with Batman: Arkham City in 2011. The game moves beyond the asylum walls into a sectioned-off district of Gotham converted into a massive prison enclosure.
This open-world approach allowed players to glide across the urban landscape, tackling missions in any order while encountering a broader roster of villains. The Penguin and Two-Face established territorial control within different sectors of Arkham City, creating faction warfare Batman must navigate.
The narrative centers on Hugo Strange’s mysterious “Protocol 10” and the Joker’s deteriorating health due to TITAN poisoning. The gameplay enhancements included refined combat, more gadgets, and side missions that featured additional Batman rogues.
Batman: Arkham Knight
Released in 2015, Batman: Arkham Knight concluded Rocksteady’s trilogy with its most ambitious entry. Set in a evacuated Gotham City under siege from Scarecrow and the mysterious Arkham Knight, the game features the largest playable area in the series.
The most significant addition was the fully drivable Batmobile, which could transform between pursuit and battle modes. Players could use it for high-speed chases, environmental puzzles, and tank battles against enemy drones.
The story deals with Batman’s psychological struggle against the Joker’s influence, manifesting as hallucinations after exposure to infected blood in Arkham City. The game explores deeper themes of fear, legacy, and sacrifice as Batman faces his ultimate challenge.
Dual play combat also debuted, allowing seamless character switching during fights when Batman teams up with allies like Robin, Nightwing, or Catwoman.
Evolution of Gameplay Mechanics
The Batman Arkham series showcases impressive advancement in gameplay elements across multiple titles. Each game builds upon the foundation of its predecessors while introducing new mechanics that enhance the Batman experience.
Combat and Stealth Design
The combat system in Batman Arkham games evolved from a basic yet innovative “FreeFlow Combat” in Arkham Asylum to a more complex and fluid experience in later titles. Arkham Asylum introduced counter-based combat that allowed Batman to take on multiple enemies at once.
With Arkham City, the system expanded to include more gadgets mid-fight and quick-fire options that made combat more dynamic. Players could now seamlessly integrate Batman’s tools into their fighting style.
Arkham Origins maintained similar mechanics but added new enemy types that required different tactical approaches. The shock gloves introduced in this title provided a powerful combat option that changed how players approached larger groups.
Arkham Knight represented the pinnacle of the combat evolution, with more fluid animations and dual-play combat allowing Batman to fight alongside allies like Robin and Nightingale.
Role of the Batmobile
The Batmobile was notably absent as a playable element in early Arkham games but became a central gameplay feature in Arkham Knight. This addition transformed how players experienced Gotham City and Batman’s capabilities.
The vehicle served dual purposes: a high-speed transportation method and a battle tank for combat scenarios. Players could seamlessly transition between driving mode and battle mode with a button press.
Some puzzle elements in Arkham Knight were specifically designed around the Batmobile’s abilities, including towing mechanisms and power winch functionalities. This integration made the vehicle feel essential rather than supplementary.
Critics had mixed reactions to the Batmobile sequences, with some feeling the tank battles became repetitive. Nevertheless, the vehicle added a new dimension to the Batman experience.
Exploration of Gotham City
The explorable environment grew dramatically throughout the series. Arkham Asylum limited players to the confines of the psychiatric facility and its grounds, creating a claustrophobic but focused experience.
Arkham City expanded this dramatically by offering a sealed-off section of Gotham to explore. Players could glide between buildings and use the grapnel gun to traverse the urban landscape.
With Arkham Origins, the map expanded further, though the traversal mechanics remained largely unchanged. The addition of the Batwing for fast travel helped mitigate the larger distances.
Arkham Knight delivered the most expansive version of Gotham yet, with distinct districts each having their own visual identity. The gliding mechanics received upgrades that allowed for faster movement and greater distances, while the Batmobile added ground-level exploration options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Batman: Arkham games have a specific timeline and release order that can sometimes confuse players. These common questions address the proper order to play these games across different platforms and collections.
What is the chronological order of the Batman: Arkham series?
The chronological order of the Batman: Arkham series begins with Batman: Arkham Origins, set during Bruce Wayne’s early years as Batman.
Next comes Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate, followed by the newer Batman: Arkham Shadow.
Batman: Arkham Asylum is fourth in the timeline, showcasing Batman’s confrontation with Joker at the infamous asylum.
Batman: Arkham City follows, with the action moving to a sectioned-off part of Gotham. The series concludes with Batman: Arkham Knight, the final chapter in the main Arkham storyline.
How many Batman games are included in the Batman: Arkham Collection?
The Batman: Arkham Collection typically includes three main games from the series.
These are Batman: Arkham Asylum, Batman: Arkham City, and Batman: Arkham Knight. This collection represents the core trilogy developed by Rocksteady Studios.
Origins is often excluded as it was developed by WB Games Montreal rather than Rocksteady.
Can you list the Batman games available on PS4 by their release dates?
On PS4, Batman: Arkham Knight was released first in June 2015 as a new-generation title.
Batman: Return to Arkham, which includes remastered versions of both Arkham Asylum and Arkham City, was released in October 2016.
The Batman: Arkham Collection bringing all three Rocksteady games together launched in September 2018 for PS4.
The Telltale Batman series also saw its two seasons released on PS4 between 2016 and 2018.
Which Batman game should be played first for new players to the series?
New players should start with Batman: Arkham Asylum for the best experience.
It introduces the core gameplay mechanics and sets up the world and characters. The controls are simpler than later games, making it easier for newcomers to learn.
While Origins is chronologically first, Asylum was designed as an introduction to the series and offers the most straightforward gameplay experience.
What is the sequence to play Batman games on Xbox?
On Xbox, players can follow either release order or chronological order, with all main games available.
For release order: Arkham Asylum, Arkham City, Arkham Origins, and Arkham Knight. For chronological story order: Arkham Origins, Arkham Asylum, Arkham City, and Arkham Knight.
Xbox Game Pass sometimes includes these titles, allowing subscribers to access multiple games in the series.
Are the Batman: Telltale series games connected, and in what order should they be played?
The Batman Telltale series games are directly connected and should be played in sequential order.
Season 1, simply titled “Batman: The Telltale Series,” should be played first. This establishes Bruce Wayne’s story and introduces key relationships.
Season 2, “Batman: The Enemy Within,” continues the narrative with consequences from the first season carrying over. Player choices from Season 1 impact the story in Season 2.
