# Rumored New Batman Game in Development by Rocksteady, with Sony Pursuing Exclusivity
In a thrilling update for supporters of the Dark Knight, a source from the industry has disclosed that Rocksteady Studios, known for the celebrated *Batman: Arkham* franchise, is apparently working on a new Batman title. In light of the disappointing reception of *Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League*, it appears Rocksteady is back to its origins, with Sony reportedly attempting to obtain exclusive rights to the game. Here’s what we currently know about this leak and why PlayStation users should take note.
## A Wish Fulfilled for Batman Enthusiasts?
Rocksteady’s last adventure set in Gotham was *Batman: Arkham Knight*, which wrapped up the *Arkham* trilogy back in 2015. The game received acclaim for its captivating world, dynamic combat, and intricate narrative, solidifying Rocksteady’s status as a leading developer. However, almost ten years have gone by since the debut of *Arkham Knight*, and fans have been eager for a comeback in the Batman realm.
According to industry insider Shpeshal Nick, that desire might soon become reality. When probed about the upcoming Batman game, Nick hinted intriguingly:
> “Not sure which studio people’s dream is, but I heard Rocksteady are back making it.”
This disclosure has ignited enthusiasm among fans, many believing Rocksteady is the perfect studio to tackle another Batman adventure. Following the tepid response to *Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League*, which faced criticism for its live-service components and uninspiring gameplay, a shift back to the Batman franchise might be precisely what the studio needs to regain its stature.
## What Type of Game Can We Expect?
While the notion of a new Batman game is exhilarating, the lingering question is: What nature of game will it be? Will Rocksteady revert to the single-player, narrative-driven format that endeared the *Arkham* series to so many, or will they again experiment with live-service or multiplayer features?
As per Shpeshal Nick, the new Batman game will not be a remaster of earlier *Arkham* installments, but further specifics remain elusive. However, Warner Bros. Games, the publishing arm behind Rocksteady’s projects, indicated in March 2024 that it would be shifting its priorities away from traditional AAA titles towards live-service frameworks. This announcement followed soon after the launch of *Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League*, raising concerns that the upcoming Batman title might include similar features.
Given the backlash surrounding *Suicide Squad* and the sweeping layoffs that occurred post-launch, it is conceivable that Warner Bros. and Rocksteady might rethink their strategy. Fans are certainly yearning for a return to the story-rich, open-world gameplay that characterized the *Arkham* series, rather than yet another live-service venture.
## Sony Pursues Exclusive Rights
In a development that could greatly impact gamers, Shpeshal Nick also asserts that Sony is striving to secure some level of exclusivity for the new Batman game. He tweeted:
> “I also think Sony are trying to moneyhat it lol.”
This implies that Sony may be negotiating for timed exclusivity, a strategy they have adopted in prior instances. Timed exclusivity would mean that the game would first launch solely on PlayStation consoles, with versions for other platforms like Xbox and PC becoming available later.
Sony has a track record of securing exclusivity deals for major titles, especially in the superhero sector. For instance, *Spider-Man* and *Spider-Man: Miles Morales* were exclusive to PlayStation, and the forthcoming *Wolverine* game is also in development solely for PlayStation. If Sony succeeds in obtaining exclusivity for the new Batman game, it would represent a significant triumph for the platform and could further entrench PlayStation’s lead in the superhero gaming arena.
## How Credible Is the Leak?
While Shpeshal Nick is known for making accurate forecasts, particularly regarding Xbox-related topics, it’s wise to take this leak with a grain of caution. Game development is often unpredictable, and plans can shift at any moment. Nick himself has stated that his insights are derived from content still in progress, indicating that nothing is finalized.
Nonetheless, Nick has proven to be a reliable source previously, and his assertion that Rocksteady is developing a new Batman game aligns with fan hopes and industry patterns. After the lackluster performance of *Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League*, it is reasonable to anticipate that Warner Bros. would want to leverage the persistent allure of the Batman franchise.
## What Lies Ahead for Rocksteady?
If the rumors are substantiated, Rocksteady’s return to the Batman universe could signify a pivotal moment for the studio. Following the critical and commercial triumph of the *Arkham* series, *Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League* represented a major miscalculation,