'Batman: The Enemy Within (2017)' is the follow-up to Telltale's previous Batman outing. It's a choice-based adventure that follows Batman as he comes up against several new villains and has to contend with an old friend from Arkham Asylum. It's a great narrative, with gripping set-pieces and impactful choices. The thing has several endings and some choices even alter the sequences you play. However, there are several elements that must occur no matter what you do, which can feel somewhat frustrating when their prevention is a big part of the prior gameplay. However, things play out in an incredibly gripping way, so these inconsistencies don't really matter too much. The writing is excellent, as is usual for Telltale, and it's brought to life with fantastic voice-work. The series' unique slant on its lore continues and it seems more confident this time around. Wayne is still as big a part as Batman and you can still decide what kind of Batman you want to be. It's a compelling, entertaining and, often, edge-of-your-seat experience that rises above its basic gameplay - which is mostly comprised of quick-time events. 9/10
9 Reviews
Telltale's Best Game?
mtrburrows4 August 2018
The first thing to note about the Enemy Within is how much it improves on every other telltale game. The Enemy Within presents a multilayered, lengthy plot which is a nice refresher after the short and thin plots presented in A New Frontier and Guardians of the Galaxy. Then there's the choices, and while your decisions won't break the space time continuum, it's safe to say this is the most your choices have mattered since the first season of the Walking Dead. Furthermore, telltale FINALLY goes back to delivering a solid conclusion as the first season of Batman, a New Frontier, and Gurdians of the Galaxy all had very disappointing final episodes that left me unsatisfied. It's even more impressive considering that there is more than one final episode based on your choices, and both finish off the season perfectly despite being completely different.
Of course the main standout of this season is Telltales rendition of the joker, and this unorthodox tale, and his flipped relationships with Harley Quinn, Bruce Wayne and Batman, really steal the whole season and is truly amazing.
That's not to take away from the other plot lines, as I was definitely invested in Commissioner Gordon, Amanda Waller, Tiffany Fox and Alfred's storylines, and the supporting cast are all entertaining too, from the condescending Riddler, to the intimidating Bane, the intelligent Iman Avesta, and Mr Freeze was fun while on screen but was definitely left in the background and should have been brought forward for a scene or two. Each relationship resulted in some crippling moments of tension which is truly the best aspect of this season.
The season definitely has a greater focus on Bruce Wayne rather than Batman, and while it suits the story, and didn't drag on the experience too much, I was left frustrated at the end of episode 4 (definitely the least interesting and forgettable episode) after having not played as Batman the whole episode, and knowing the last time I had a Batman action scene was at the very beginning of episode 2! This is subjective, and while it didn't bother me too much it is something that others should be aware of.
To top it all off, this is the best looking telltale game yet, with the flowing camera movements and brilliantly animated facial expressions, accompanied by the top notch voice acting, makes this definitely my favourite telltale game!
Of course the main standout of this season is Telltales rendition of the joker, and this unorthodox tale, and his flipped relationships with Harley Quinn, Bruce Wayne and Batman, really steal the whole season and is truly amazing.
That's not to take away from the other plot lines, as I was definitely invested in Commissioner Gordon, Amanda Waller, Tiffany Fox and Alfred's storylines, and the supporting cast are all entertaining too, from the condescending Riddler, to the intimidating Bane, the intelligent Iman Avesta, and Mr Freeze was fun while on screen but was definitely left in the background and should have been brought forward for a scene or two. Each relationship resulted in some crippling moments of tension which is truly the best aspect of this season.
The season definitely has a greater focus on Bruce Wayne rather than Batman, and while it suits the story, and didn't drag on the experience too much, I was left frustrated at the end of episode 4 (definitely the least interesting and forgettable episode) after having not played as Batman the whole episode, and knowing the last time I had a Batman action scene was at the very beginning of episode 2! This is subjective, and while it didn't bother me too much it is something that others should be aware of.
To top it all off, this is the best looking telltale game yet, with the flowing camera movements and brilliantly animated facial expressions, accompanied by the top notch voice acting, makes this definitely my favourite telltale game!
The choice is yours
kelboy1011 March 2022
Wow I forgot how incredibly good this game is. It's another from the telltale series that amazed me with their early episodes of the walking dead. I went back and played this one because I'd just recently watched the new Batman film with the riddler. Now the Riddler is one of my favourite villains from Batman's rogues gallery. Much like the first game the choices you make effect the outcome of certain scenarios within the game. I consider these to be more interactive episodes than a full on video game, which is fine especially if you have a love for the material. So what's good about this game? It has a cinematic look which very few games had at the time whilst following a very compelling narrative. Possibly up there for being one of the best story telling games of all time. I'd even go as far as to saying it is plausible to view it as one of the best Batman related stories of all time. Also I'd imagine Matt Reeve's must've took so influence from this source material. Even though this can continue from the previous game it isn't essential, however much like the first game Batman/Bruce has to solve crimes, form allies and make clear cut decisions which could effect his relationships alongside the outcome. It's a series of five episodes an adaption never seen in the gaming industry for Batman fans before. Now there are a variety of different versions in the mythology of Batman therefore, depending on which is most compelling to you this telling has its strong points. Tory Baker is a great Batman and Bruce although he never gets the recognition of Kevin Conroy. Compared with the first games story I'd say this one probably has more depth without the twist, whereas the first game kept me guessing on who Lady Arkham was. Riddler starts as off fast paced with intriguing puzzles along the way and well thought up mechanical traps. Robin Atkin Downes does a honourable job with Riddler, although I never felt like I could feel sympathy for him or he could be rehabilitated. Catwoman voiced by Laura Bailey however, appears to have compassion for Edward Nigma after getting mixed up with him and uncovering a higher truth of who is really pulling the strings. The modern Riddler is much like saw in the way he believes he is doing righteous work to corrupt people. I must say Laura Bailey's portrayal alongside fantastic character animation is one of my favourite versions of catwoman. Leaving Batman/Bruce unsure which characters to trust you make the decisions on who's cards to hold dearest. Will you choose Amanda Waller or James Gordon? The John Doe joker story kept me patient eagerly awaiting for his true colours to show, even so I don't feel like this is the strongest version of the Joker. Harley Quinn I found really obnoxious compared with previous takes on the character. She seemed less fun and way too serious as well as being more levelheaded than previous takes although I feel that is what they were going for. Not the mentally ill Harley so much. Harley calls a lot of the shots in this game which is okay but can leave you feeling she is the strongest antagonist throughout the majority of it!
Surprisingly Much more better that first one
ronimajamaki-405056 December 2022
I would have give 9.5 stars if possible. Too shame they don't make games like this anymore ? Lot of action and good plot not get bored moments like the first one. I enjoy this game much more than sometimes hideous difficulty Arkham Series even though I love them too .. Characters and voice acting is better and improved graphics . Characters feel sometimes little bit silly and funny but that's a good thing that Batman series can add humour otherwise naturally much more dark Gotham city that screams for colour and world Always needs good stories with focused and deep storytelling and inspiration.
Great sequel but...
burnzyburns31 December 2020
Warning: Spoilers
....This game is much more complicated. Telltale forces you to make some complicated choices that are kind of monotonous to the story and other times the choices become absolute thinkers.
Part 2 really gears up the story and it feels a little bit longer then Part 1, which is mostly good. The game introduces The Pact, which was done incredibly well, and you actually "feel" for some of its members. My only concern is that it I felt Bruce was with them for too long in the game and it got a little boring at times. During this sequence, again, you are granted a ton of choices but it seems to be just for your own entertainment rather then fully adding to the story.
However this game is very good and it's a great sequel. I became obsessed with The Joker, that I actually felt sympathy for him the whole time. It was hard to argue his motives or his overall story, and in a way you root for him as the game goes along.
Which leads me back to a wrinkle. I couldn't stand The Agency or Amanda Waller. In fact, I basically despised her and not once did I consider changing my mind for her unless I was forced, and in some cases, I was. I had no problems pissing her off. You may feel the same way about it too.
And lastly I want to touch on Catwoman. I swear I did all I could for her to like me, partner with me, and be nice to her but some bloody how, at the end of the game she chooses to fight alongside The Agency, which completely triggered me. I feel as if Telltale scrapped most of the Selina Kyle plot and the potential to be partners with her; which really could've catapulted this game to being a 10/10. I don't mind Tiffany and Agent Avesta being my allies but the attention around Catwoman was nearly shanked and its pathetic that only one episode from part 2 focuses on her.
I won't say too much about any other characters since I can go on and on forever about everyone. This is still a great sequel but a lot of "little" mistakes smear the picture and hurt its rating a bit.
8.5/10
Part 2 really gears up the story and it feels a little bit longer then Part 1, which is mostly good. The game introduces The Pact, which was done incredibly well, and you actually "feel" for some of its members. My only concern is that it I felt Bruce was with them for too long in the game and it got a little boring at times. During this sequence, again, you are granted a ton of choices but it seems to be just for your own entertainment rather then fully adding to the story.
However this game is very good and it's a great sequel. I became obsessed with The Joker, that I actually felt sympathy for him the whole time. It was hard to argue his motives or his overall story, and in a way you root for him as the game goes along.
Which leads me back to a wrinkle. I couldn't stand The Agency or Amanda Waller. In fact, I basically despised her and not once did I consider changing my mind for her unless I was forced, and in some cases, I was. I had no problems pissing her off. You may feel the same way about it too.
And lastly I want to touch on Catwoman. I swear I did all I could for her to like me, partner with me, and be nice to her but some bloody how, at the end of the game she chooses to fight alongside The Agency, which completely triggered me. I feel as if Telltale scrapped most of the Selina Kyle plot and the potential to be partners with her; which really could've catapulted this game to being a 10/10. I don't mind Tiffany and Agent Avesta being my allies but the attention around Catwoman was nearly shanked and its pathetic that only one episode from part 2 focuses on her.
I won't say too much about any other characters since I can go on and on forever about everyone. This is still a great sequel but a lot of "little" mistakes smear the picture and hurt its rating a bit.
8.5/10
Even better than the first one!
kobemackenzie26 June 2022
Telltale has done it again! Batman the enemy within has Batman go up against several new villains in it' own original story! And just like the first one the choices and consequences are very impactful! Choices You made In the first game also have a long lasting impression though out this game! Voice acting is amazing for every character and the writing as definitely improved from the last game! Overall amazing game!
Once again, Telltale's Batman has problems. But the Joker is a TRUE standout!
benjamincallinicos26 November 2018
Warning: Spoilers
The Enemy Within has tremendous story problems and they take risks just for the sake of taking risks.
Riddler, Harley Quinn and Mr Freeze in this have to be the WORST versions of these characters. Their voice actors get on my nerves and they are not the same as how these characters are supposed to be.
The only characters that are represented well are Amanda Waller, Catwoman and most of the all THE JOKER.
The Joker in the Telltale series is so unique and one of the most relateable versions of the character. What's really cool is the fact that you can turn him into two different versions of the character in Episodes 4 & 5, which unfortunately is ruined by the fact that the concluding battle that we've all been waiting to see as well as some of the Joker character design choices are so lacklustre.
Telltale aren't as good as making games as they once were, and their take on the Batman mythos sends me up the wrong way and is much more divisive than how the Arkham games ended.
The whole standout of Batman: The Enemy Within is the Joker and that's kind of it. The way it was building up was so exciting, it's just such a shame that we'll never get to see more of him as Telltale Games are closing for good.
Riddler, Harley Quinn and Mr Freeze in this have to be the WORST versions of these characters. Their voice actors get on my nerves and they are not the same as how these characters are supposed to be.
The only characters that are represented well are Amanda Waller, Catwoman and most of the all THE JOKER.
The Joker in the Telltale series is so unique and one of the most relateable versions of the character. What's really cool is the fact that you can turn him into two different versions of the character in Episodes 4 & 5, which unfortunately is ruined by the fact that the concluding battle that we've all been waiting to see as well as some of the Joker character design choices are so lacklustre.
Telltale aren't as good as making games as they once were, and their take on the Batman mythos sends me up the wrong way and is much more divisive than how the Arkham games ended.
The whole standout of Batman: The Enemy Within is the Joker and that's kind of it. The way it was building up was so exciting, it's just such a shame that we'll never get to see more of him as Telltale Games are closing for good.
A good game but it could be better!
Edward_A_Gall26 July 2021
Batman The Enemy Within is the second season of Batman The Telltale Series and to be honest I liked both games but they lack more immersion and narrative construction, I know Telltale games are usually depressing with a focus on showing more the daily life of what the action itself is not the focus of the game, but in both games the middle of the story ends up being a little dragged, at least with me I got tired of playing several moments because it wasn't attracting me so much.
A very positive point is again the choices of Bruce Wayne's two personalities (He and Batman), which I think is really cool because any choice given with the two characters will directly affect the life of Bruce and his friends, until the end it remains constant that depending on your choices Bruce's life will never be normal as long as he has his second facet of Batman.
Overall I thought the game was good but mainly the medium could have made a better character construction and narrative that is constantly so slow that it becomes tiring, I recommend it if you like the character, I think you'll like it mainly for this view of the universe of Batman I I think it's cool, but Telltale Batman games doesn't surpass The Walking Dead and The Wolf Among Us.
Note: if you play, pay attention not only to the game itself but to the philosophy behind Batman's most iconic villain, even though it's not the main point here and being mentioned only in the last few episodes, I think it's very profound and it's worth debating which is the origin of evil.
A very positive point is again the choices of Bruce Wayne's two personalities (He and Batman), which I think is really cool because any choice given with the two characters will directly affect the life of Bruce and his friends, until the end it remains constant that depending on your choices Bruce's life will never be normal as long as he has his second facet of Batman.
Overall I thought the game was good but mainly the medium could have made a better character construction and narrative that is constantly so slow that it becomes tiring, I recommend it if you like the character, I think you'll like it mainly for this view of the universe of Batman I I think it's cool, but Telltale Batman games doesn't surpass The Walking Dead and The Wolf Among Us.
Note: if you play, pay attention not only to the game itself but to the philosophy behind Batman's most iconic villain, even though it's not the main point here and being mentioned only in the last few episodes, I think it's very profound and it's worth debating which is the origin of evil.
Platinum #18
ocesarebr22 December 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Just like its predecessor, this game is also an easy platinum, just finish the game and the platinum comes. I found this game longer than Telltale's first Batman, I don't know why I thought that but I did. It's a lot less buggy than the first game but it still has bugs. The story of this game is better than the first one. I don't know which game I thought was better, but if I had to give my opinion it would be this one. It has more interesting characters. It's cool to have a choice in what the ending will be for the Joker and other characters. Without a doubt, Batman has the best villains of any superhero studio. Platinum #18 Platinum Game on December 22, 2023.
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