You might not know this, but the Xbox 360 version of Batman: Arkham City leaked at some point this week. This usually wouldn’t be something I’d prefer to report on, but it’s particularly relevant today because its led to some new facts being unearthed about the game, specifically relating to Catwoman’s role as a playable character.
We learned over the summer that Batman’s frequent frenemy would be playable during certain sections of the game. What hasn’t been revealed until now, however, is the fact that this Catwoman content will only be accessible after players enter in a redemption code included with new copies of Arkham City. Streaming video of the game in action reveals text on the title screen that reads: “Catwoman is a unique character with her own story, moves, and weapons. Unlock Catwoman by redeeming the 1st purchaser included in the game case or by visiting Xbox Live Marketplace.” (via Eurogamer)
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment later confirmed officially that, yes, the Catwoman content is part of a VIP Pass initiative. Those who don’t purchase the game new can still get access to the content by paying a premium of 800 MS Points. The PlayStation Network price is listed in pounds (remember, Eurogamer), but it’s safe to say that the cost in U.S. dollars will be $9.99. WBIE also added that the Catwoman content is optional and won’t be necessary to complete the game.
The move itself isn’t surprising, though the secrecy that’s wrapped around the Catwoman-as-online pass material certainly is. Why not just be up front about something as major as that? Sure, you’d get some flak. But you’d also guarantee that many more day one sales. Both still might be the case, but fans are probably going to be much louder with their anger for not knowing the whole truth until days before the game’s release.
