In an interview with CVG, game director Sefton Hill has shared even more information about the upcoming video game, and while he doesnt reveal too much he does go into greater detail regarding several aspects of Batman: Arkham City and also teases the return of the villainous Scarecrow!
On Whether Arkham City Is As An Evolution Or Revolution Of The First Game:
"There's definitely an evolution of story, but a revolution in terms of setting. It's important to us that players feel a sense of continuity between Arkham Asylum and Arkham City. The story follows the events of the first game and even explains some of the mysteries of the Asylum. The location, however, is about four or five times larger than Arkham Island, so we had to develop new technologies to realise such a big and detailed environment - something that would have been impossible without the experience of the original."
On The New Fighting System That The Game Has:
"As with every other mechanic in the game, we haven't just transferred the design from Arkham Asylum, we've reviewed all parts of it and developed them for the new world and cast of villains. The combat's been expanded and now has new features, including twice as many moves for the player to perform, the ability to counter multiple enemies at once and the option to combo-in many of Batman's gadgets."
On Whether Or Not Fan Comments Influenced The Character Roster:
"We're always taking note of feedback, and it's pretty clear that there are many serious Batman fans out there with very strong ideas about which characters should be making an appearance. Of course, it's impossible to please everybody, so our approach is to focus on making a great story and gameplay. We then choose the villains who'll help tell the tale and provide compelling and innovative moments for the player."
On The Decision To Make The Game Bigger:
"While the backbone is still the strong main narrative, there'll also be many character-driven sub-plots to reward gamers who explore the streets. These optional side aspects will flesh out the story and show how many of Gotham's greatest villains have adapted to life inside a new facility. So, overall, there are elements of both a linear story and more open world
adventure. I believe this combination will give the game a completely unique feel while remaining unmistakably authentic to Batman."
On Whether Or Not The Scarecrow Will Be Back For Arkham City:
"This is a really tough question to answer, so I hope you don't mind if I duck it by saying that we totally understand how popular the Scarecrow sequences were and that we also really enjoyed creating them. We're working overtime to make the best game we can, so all I can say at this stage is, stay tuned..."
Batman: Arkham City is set to be released sometime around Fall, 2011!