Bat Hero Attacks Joker

There are four self-contained episodes in The brave and the bold.

The stories Bat Hero Attacks Joker are what you would expect from a cartoon superhero caper--gorillas running amok,

and statues coming to life--but it's the manner in which these tales are told that gives this game personality.

Villains interject their dastardly thoughts and cunning insults throughout the levels, and their repartee gives this game a goofy charm.

Each episode teams heroes up with a different sidekick, but these second bananas don't stay meekly out of the spotlight.

Robin takes offense to every perceived slight; Blue beetle makes fun of the preposterous situations;

Hawkman won't stop talking about how old and wise he is; and guy gardner is a pompous jerk even after he messes everything up.

But the jokes aren't limited to the cutscenes. Blue beetle muses about superhero/supervillain relationships in the middle of a hectic fight;

Robin continually argues that a catlike person has to be Cat heroes; and offers a few objections while everyone prattles on around him.

It's a great dynamic that makes this game Bat Hero Attacks Joker immediately engaging and accessible, even for people who don't know their from their heroes.

Combat is the primary focus, so there are lots of opportunities to bash angry foes into smithereens.

The smooth controls allow you to jump, kick, roll, and block with ease, creating an empowering feeling that you are always in full command of an altruistic superhero.

You have a decent repertoire of moves--including uppercuts, throws, and jump kicks--but you really only need to mash the punch button to defeat most enemies.

However, there is just enough variety to keep things from becoming repetitive.

Flying enemies must be knocked out of the sky with a well-timed jumping attack;

explosive mines require a poke-and-run approach; and gun-toting miscreants will strike you down if you're not quick on your feet.

Motion controls are kept to a minimum, but you can unleash a super attack by shaking the remote and nunchuk together,

and the brief cutscene and awesome display of might make this satisfying to pull off in battle.

You can also summon a lesser hero if you need help in a jam, and it's always worth a laugh to call forth the Flash just to hear him use his name in his awkward battle cries.