Batman: The Video Game (Game Boy video game)

Batman: The Video Game, released in 1990 by Sunsoft for the Game Boy, is an action game starring the DC Comics hero. Its story draws from the 1989 Warner Bros. film, with Batman facing off against the Joker. The game was created by much of the same Sunsoft team that had previously worked on the NES adaptation of the same film. Cho Musou produced the project, while Naoki Kodaka, Nobuyuki Hara, and Shinichi Seya composed the soundtrack.

As an action game, it features platforming and shooting elements. The development team included director Cho Musou, co-programmers Akihiro "Lucky" Asada, Yuichi "Zap.Yuichi" Ueda, and a staffer known only as "Aka," all under the direction of Hiroaki "Hiro-Kun" Higashiya. Co-designers were Kazutomo "Kaz" Mori, Kenichi "Abe Kun" Abe, Masashige "M.F" Furihata, Rieko "Rie" Sakai, Tadashi Kojima, and a staffer using the pseudonym "Aki." The game first launched in Japan on April 13, 1990, followed by a North American release in June and a European release later that year.

Critics and later commentators generally received the game well. ACE's Eugene Lacey found it addictive, praising its level variety and Super Mario Land-style gameplay, though he noted its difficulty. Power Play's Volker Weitz called it a fun mix of platforming and shooting, with strong graphics and upbeat audio. Aktueller Software Markt's Hans-Joachim Amann thought its audiovisual quality was very good for the Game Boy and commended its simple, precise controls. Electronic Gaming Monthly's four reviewers highlighted its visuals, challenge, music, and cutscenes. Player One's Cyril Drevet considered it one of the best Game Boy titles, lauding its music, gameplay, graphics, and blend of platforming and shooter stages. The Games Machine's Richard Eddy described it as enjoyable and addictive, with its strongest feature being the combination of platform and shoot 'em up genres. A Zero writer praised its addictive gameplay and audiovisual presentation. Mean Machines' Matt Regan and Julian Rignall found it reminiscent of Super Mario Land but recommended it for its addictive playability, distinct stages, and weapon variety. Video Games' Michael Hengst noted its music, controls, well-designed stages, and enemy patterns, though he felt its graphics fell short of titles like Gargoyle's Quest. Total!'s Andy Dyer gave favorable remarks for its graphics, sound, and smooth contro