The game begins with Batman capturing the Joker after his latest plot, escorting him to Arkham Asylum for imprisonment. Due to Joker's recent attack on Gotham's prison, a large number of sane convicts have been transferred to Arkham. Joker, however has set a trap inside the asylum, using the its own impenetrable defenses against him. Batman must now not only try to escape from the hazards of Arkham, but also recapture the Joker and reveal his true intentions.
Gameplay places just as much focus on Batman's role as a detective as his combat prowess. Most of the game is played through an over-the-shoulder, third person perspective.It has been hinted that certain villains might be playable at some point in the game although this may be as an unlockable element after completing the game. Arkham was chosen as a location because of its limitations including the fact that it's located on an island. Arkham will be a persistent location that the player will be able to freely roam, including an area that serves as Batman's secret on-site Bat Cave.