Batman: The Enemy Within Episode 1 - The Enigma Xbox One Review

Batman is back with a new enemy and decisions to make. The Enigma helps establish an edifice for the second season by introducing a new villain and setting up a different mystery for Batman to solve.  While some of the issues from the first season do sprout up The Enigma is a strong opening for the second season of Batman's episodic tale but ends with a sloppy conclusion. 

Taking the place of Lady Arkham is The Riddler, an easier villain to recognize. Remaining loyal to his puzzle-themed persona Riddler also dawns a more combative role, unlike his appearance in the Arkham games. It was surprising to see Riddler fight with Batman with such ability, making for exciting boss fights but his puzzles are anything but complex. For most of the game, all the answers are given to you which defeats the purpose of the Riddler as a villain. Edward Nigma may be a formidable fighter but his puzzles are all bark and no bite.

However, some changes have been made to the formula. New button prompts found in the latest episode of Minecraft: Story Mode have been added such as multi-button inputs for single attacks and the removal of the fight preparation feature. Instead, while in battle, Batman can choose between 2 options of how to take down enemies during specific situations. While I loved the original system this allowed for a much more fluid system.

The detective mode is back with the same function as before. Players will link together specific clues to solve problems, basically, the same connect-the-dots mechanics found in the first game. What The Enigma does bring back are the fantastic voice-acting and decision-based gameplay.

Like other Telltale Games, you'll make decisions that change the story within a specific time period. Introduced in Minecraft: Story Mode choices that affect the characters around you will appear on the screen to showcase changes in the story. This helpful system made me aware of critical decisions I've made and to be alert when I see that person again.

Much of The Enigma can be predicted since a lot of information comes from knowledge of the Batman series. Well-known characters like Amanda Waller from the Batman series and returning characters from season 1 return here and maintain their same personality. At times I would go against what I thought Batman or Bruce Wayne would do in order to get unique responses, and that's what The Enigma doesn't do well. Unlike previous episodes, there was a distinct difference between Bruce Wayne and Batman but here they're one and the same. The barrier that separated the 2 has been shattered.

Unlike the past season, which was riddled with bugs and glitches, The Enigma didn't suffer from any problems. Instead, the entire episode ran smoothly from start to finish without issue. The load times have been extended but considering that I didn't have the game's sound crashing or graphical issues popping up it was a worthy tradeoff. 

The Enigma opens strong but ends with a whimper. Those unfamiliar with Batman's iconic characters will most likely be surprised by how it ends but those familiar with the series will be able to predict the final moments. The Riddler had a lot of promise but falls short due to his lack of engaging puzzles. However, the episode leaves enough mystery that I'll be back for more. 

Adam Siddiqui, NoobFeed
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