The Arkham series has consistently been some of the best singleplayer games of this console generation. Today, Warner Brothers announced that they are releasing a multiplayer mode for Arkham Origins called Invisible Predator Online. It may seem odd or unneeded, but take a look at it’s first trailer below, and read on to see why it’s shaping up quite impressively.

This multiplayer mode is being developed by British developer Splash Damage, creators of Brink and Enemy Territories: Quake Wars. Invisible Predator Online will feature eight players split up amongst three teams. Three players will work as Joker’s Thugs, three as Bane’s thugs, and two players will play as the Dark Knight and The Boy Wonder. The two teams of thugs will play in a third person shooter style battle, armed with shotguns, assault rifles, grenades and remote controlled aerial bombs and fight against one another, all while Batman and Robin stalk from above. The thugs will fight over control points, and work to reduce the amount of lives the other has remaining to zero

Batman and Robin will use the litany of gadgets from the single player game in order to takedown the thugs. These include Batrangs, Robin’s bullet shield and Detective vision, which makes up for the fact that Batman isn’t bullet proof, when the enemies are all armed with machine guns. Players will have to remain in the shadows, using gargoyles and other ledges, as well as vents, to get the drop on the thugs. The goal of Batman and Robin is to incapacitate enough members of the gangs to increase the intimidation meter to the point where the gangs call off the heist. When this happens, Batman and Robin win the round, and teams change between each round. So if you get to play as Batman for one round, you will likely not be playing as either of the Caped Crusaders for the remaining rounds.

The thugs will have to work together in order to counteract the threat of the other gang, and the heroes lurking in the shadows. As stated earlier, they are equipped with various types of weapons, and get an enhanced vision mode, similar to Detective Mode, though I expect it to only work on the other thugs (as stealth is the only hope the heroes have). At certain points throughout the match the gangs will gain access to their own super villain, either Bane or The Joker, depending on their allegiance.

Once certain conditions are met, the leader will call on their team to open a door allowing them into the arena. The player responsible for doing so then plays as that super villain. Thugs must be vigilant here though, as it would seem a perfect moment for Batman or Robin to strike. Joker and Bane come equipped with very powerful attacks and takedowns. These are great, but if Batman or Robin should take you out, they gain a huge bonus to their intimidation meter.

Batman, Robin, and the thugs will all be customizable. There are multiple different skins for each Caped Crusader, and different face paint, masks and clothes for the thugs to choose from to better customize your peon. No specifics were given as to what skins would be available for Batman or Robin, but I’m sure their will be many (and probably a lot more available as DLC).

Multiplayer was certainly unexpected from an Arkham game, but all signs are pointing to this being a worth addition to the Arkham video games. Expect to learn more about Batman Arkham Origins before it launches on October 25th for Xbox 360, PC, Wii U and PS3. The hand held spin-off Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate coming to the 3DS and Vita.

UPDATE: The multiplayer is not coming to Wii U, according to IGN. A Warner Brothers representative was quoted saying “The team is focusing development efforts on platforms with the largest multiplayer audience”

This reporter’s opinion: This is actually looking quite impressive. I have always been a fan of the Arkahm games, and this multiplayer really seems to carry on the legacy of the single player, while adding on a great way to play with friends. Before anyone casts judgement, remember that most were unsure of Assassin’s Creed getting multiplayer, and it has quickly become one of the best alternatives to shooters.

by, Bobby Marquardt

Information for this article was taken from Polygon, Joystiq and OXM UK.