After a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised over $300,000, Infinite Rabbit Holes has released their first game, The Arkham Asylum Files: Panic in Gotham City. This unique experience combines a physical game board with augmented reality puzzles and story elements delivered through your mobile device.
Exploring the Box
When you open the 10-pound box, you’ll find a warning message instructing you to download the game app before proceeding. Inside the box, there are sealed files containing various elements such as building schematics and evidence from the Gotham City Police Department. Opening these files in the correct order adds to the excitement and mystery of the game.
The box also includes a large game board featuring a top-down view of Gotham City, as well as 16 sealed boxes and envelopes containing over 100 unique elements to discover throughout gameplay.
How to Play
To play The Arkham Asylum Files: Panic in Gotham City, you’ll need an AR-capable iPhone, iPad, or Android device running the latest operating systems. Once you’ve downloaded the app, a short instructional video will introduce you to the game’s structure and navigation.
Before diving into the game, make sure you have adequate lighting to enhance the augmented reality elements. It’s also recommended to play on a large tabletop surface and have a pen and paper handy for note-taking.
The app is easy to navigate, with a green arrow button to progress through puzzles and stories, a star icon to return to the main menu, and a hint button for assistance when stuck. The main menu provides options for reviewing instructions, accessing FAQs, adjusting settings, and restarting the game.
The Game Experience
The game follows a structure of alternating between story moments and puzzles. There are seven parts to complete, with each part estimated to take 30-45 minutes. Playing in a group is recommended for a more enjoyable experience and assistance with challenging puzzles.
The estimated gameplay time for The Arkham Asylum Files: Panic in Gotham City is 6-10 hours, but it can be played in multiple sessions as the app saves progress. However, progress cannot be transferred between devices, so stick with the device you initially started the game on.
The initial puzzles ease you into the game, but the difficulty gradually increases. While the recommended age is 13 or older, younger players may struggle with the later puzzles. However, there is an option to skip puzzles if needed.
The Story and Production Value
The narrative focuses on Harley Quinn and the lesser-known antagonist, Anarky, rather than the Joker. While it includes nods to other Gotham City villains, the story may be more enjoyable for fans of DC comics.
The production value of The Arkham Asylum Files: Panic in Gotham City is impressive. The voice acting, animated scenes, and high-quality materials contribute to an immersive experience. The variety of puzzles, including escape-room style and interactive minigames, adds to the enjoyment.