Injustice: Gods Among Us

Depending on your perspective, the plot for Injustice: Gods Among Us is either inspired or daft. As a contrivance to have superheroes switch allegiances, it works fine. But for logical, nuanced storytelling, don't look for it in this superhero beat-'em-up.

The game’s outrageous story feels like an interactive Saturday morning cartoon. Superman, brainwashed and manipulated by the Joker, has become a troubled, angry dictator, much to the chagrin of former friends, including Batman. There’s some hokum about parallel worlds, superheroes forming bonds with supervillains, and former super-pals duking it out.

This makes for a barmy but pleasing collaboration between Warner Bros (makers of Arkham City ) and the developers of Mortal Kombat : entertaining, boisterous exposition, followed by duels between iconic characters. Each chapter in the tangled narrative is told from a different superhero's perspective, which gives you the chance to play as a number of characters. The roster includes The Flash, Green Lantern, Wonder Woman, Bane, Catwoman and many more.

The combat is speedy, traditional 2D beat-’em-up. Take the time to learn the moves and you’re rewarded for well-timed blocks and blows and for using your environment to pummel enemies. Eventually you clock up amusing “super moves”, such as the Joker’s custard pie-related carnage, the Batmobile appearing out of nowhere for a hit and run, or (my favourite) Aquaman’s tidal wave that includes an angry shark.

You can play the single-player campaign or local or online multiplayer matches. This writer would have preferred it as an open world brawler (à la InFamous or Prototype ), but overall this is decadent, lively stuff.