Batman: Arkham Asylum as an action-adventure game developed by Rocksteady Studios. It is the first installment in the Batman: Arkham series which is based on Batman comic series.

Batman successfully captures Joker and transports him to the Arkham Asylum on the Arkham Island. Batman suspects Joker of surrendering intentionally hence why the hero decides to escort Joker personally. Joker breaks away from the security frees all the inmates and captures the asylum. Batman sets out to restore order in Arkham Asylum.

Played from a third-person perspective, the gameplay of Batman: Arkham Asylum can be divided into three types: world exploration, stealth and beat 'em up. Batman explores the asylum while solving puzzles and using his wide range of gadgets. If Batman is spotted, the game turns into a beat 'em up featuring fast hand-to-hand combat. Batman himself does not use any weapons due to his moral choices while the enemies grow stronger and begin using different weaponry as the game progresses.

In some cases, while confronting a group of enemies, it is suggested that Batman's actions should not be spotted and the game turns into a stealth action.