{"id":27816,"date":"2011-11-22T17:00:46","date_gmt":"2011-11-22T17:00:46","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/?p=27816"},"modified":"2011-11-22T18:53:28","modified_gmt":"2011-11-22T18:53:28","slug":"batman-arkham-city-preview","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/batman-arkham-city-preview\/","title":{"rendered":"Batman: Arkham City PC Game Preview"},"content":{"rendered":"<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">\/\/ <![CDATA[\n                                 google_ad_client = \"pub-7021221536180758\"; \/* 468x60, created 11\/11\/09 *\/ google_ad_slot = \"1949837292\"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 60;\n\/\/ ]]><\/script><script type=\"text\/javascript\" src=\"http:\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/show_ads.js\"><\/script><br \/>\n<em>Batman: Arkham City<\/em> is still downloading from Steam as ABT&#8217;s review copy was late.\u00a0 However, we still have a preview as ABT&#8217;s web master has completed this game on the XBox 360 and we have also managed to snag some great screen shots for you courtesy of Warner Bros. and Nvidia.\u00a0 <em>Batman: Arkham City<\/em> is the long anticipated follow-up to <em>Batman Arkham Asylum<\/em> and fortunately it is much more of a good thing.<\/p>\n<p><em>Batman: Arkham City<\/em> brings another great chapter of the Batman Saga to life.\u00a0 We will make it a DX11 part of our ABT benching suite immediately to replace <em>Batman: Arkham Asylum<\/em>.\u00a0 Both games feature quality built-in benchmarks that we will also compare to actual framerates that we encounter in-game so as to relate the benchmark to playing the game.\u00a0 And after we complete the game, we will give you a special 3D Vision evaluation of it.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_222_Batman.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-27832\" title=\"BatmanArkhamCity_222_Batman\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_222_Batman.jpg?resize=300%2C168\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_222_Batman.jpg?resize=300%2C168 300w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_222_Batman-1024x576.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><em>Batman: Arkham City<\/em> builds upon the foundation of <em>Batman: Arkham Asylum<\/em> as it sends players into Arkham City, the new maximum security prison for all of Gotham City&#8217;s thugs and insane criminal masterminds.\u00a0\u00a0 Set inside the heavily fortified walls of a large district in Gotham City, the sequel introduces a brand-new story that draws together a cast of classic characters and villains from the Batman universe, as well as new and enhanced gameplay features which include playing as Catwoman.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_264_CWCity.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-27824\" title=\"BatmanArkhamCity_264_CWCity\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_264_CWCity.jpg?resize=300%2C168\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_264_CWCity.jpg?resize=300%2C168 300w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_264_CWCity-1024x576.jpg 1024w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_264_CWCity.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><br \/>\nBatman: Arkham City Features a new cinematic story, writen by five-time Emmy award winner Paul Dini set within an interesting and unique environments that is playable in DirectX 11 with advanced lighting and shadow features as well as tessellation.\u00a0 PhysX and 3D Vision are added features for GeForce owners to add to the immersion of the game and to the overall experience.<\/p>\n<p>According to our web master, the game is absolutely top notch and worth calling in sick from work for.\u00a0 He calls it a perfect mix of story-driven and semi-open world with spectacular fighting combos that can be chained for devastating results.\u00a0 You will need at least a couple of full days off of work to finish this game.\u00a0 Let&#8217;s take a look at the story and the game play before we preview the new DX11 features as well as PhysX and 3D Vision<\/p>\n<p><!--pagetitle: Introduction--><!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<h3><strong>The Story<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><em>Batman: Arkham City<\/em> begins 18 months after the events of <em>Batman: Arkham Asylum<\/em>.\u00a0 Quincy Sharp, the former warden of Arkham Asylum, was elected the Mayor of Gotham City. He clamped down on crime and overhauled Gotham City&#8217;s prison system, closing the Asylum. Mayor Sharp ordered that a derelict district of Gotham City be totally walled off\u00a0 from the rest of the city and heavily fortified. He ordered all of the city&#8217;s criminals and madmen to be transferred into this new, urban mega-prison &#8211; Arkham City.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Untitled-13.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-27836\" title=\"Untitled-1\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Untitled-13.jpg?resize=300%2C168\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Untitled-13.jpg?resize=300%2C168 300w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Untitled-13-1024x575.jpg 1024w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Untitled-13.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a>Batman believes that this is a terrible idea and that Arkham City is about to explode out onto the streets of Gotham.\u00a0 He is right and you have a new massive challenge to undertake.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>The Gameplay<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Batman is not super-human and he cannot take on armed NPCs directly. Even with his custom armor, multiple gunshot wounds will quickly end his crime-fighting career.\u00a0 As Batman, the player will need to adopt tactics depending on which enemies they are facing.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_276_BMPunc.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-27826\" title=\"BatmanArkhamCity_276_BMPunc\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_276_BMPunc.jpg?resize=300%2C168\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_276_BMPunc.jpg?resize=300%2C168 300w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_276_BMPunc-1024x576.jpg 1024w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_276_BMPunc.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a>As in the original game, it is always wise to survey your surroundings and plan out your attack beforehand. Use the rooftops and vantage points to move around silently.\u00a0 As in the Asylum, Batman can drop down behind a thug and perform Takedowns including performing a Knockout Smash as an instant finishing move to clear rooms quickly.<\/p>\n<p>Sometimes it is easier to use the environment to perform the many varieties of takedowns. This can include smashing through floor grates or weak wooden walls and grabbing enemies.\u00a0 You will earn XP bonuses for using a variety of takedowns and you can earn multiple bonuses for taking out enemies in different manners.<\/p>\n<p>Probably one of the most satisfying elements of the game is the ability to chain ten combo attacks together for a devastating way to clean out an entire room.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>SURVEILLANCE<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Batman&#8217;s cowl has an advanced communications system built-into it which allows him to communicate with Alfred or other allies, eavesdrop on phone calls, or enter Detective Mode. One of the most useful features of the cowl is called Local Surveillance.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_222_detect.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-27821\" title=\"BatmanArkhamCity_222_detect\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_222_detect.jpg?resize=300%2C168\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_222_detect.jpg?resize=300%2C168 300w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_222_detect-1024x576.jpg 1024w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_222_detect.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a>The cowl automatically scans the surrounding area for relevant noises or trouble spots. Upon identifying an important conversation, the audio is delivered directly to Batman and displayed on the HUD.\u00a0 Surveillance can be followed up by initiating Detective mode with a further pop-up.\u00a0 Local Surveillance is useful to locate thugs or political prisoners and to stay up on gossip and tips.<\/p>\n<p>Batman&#8217;s entire costume is a mobile arsenal of high-tech gadgets and forensic equipment. A benefit of being fabulously wealthy is that Batman can also upgrade his skills and gadgets after acquiring enough XP.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Side Missions<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>There are 12 main side missions in <em>Batman: Arkham City<\/em>. Some side missions are available early in the campaign, but more unlock as you progress.\u00a0 There are also a variety of Riddler challenges that will prove once and for all who is smarter.\u00a0 There are also political prisoners to save and Challenge Rooms to clear that were also created by the Riddler.<\/p>\n<h3>Playing as Catwoman<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_207_Catwom.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-27819\" title=\"BatmanArkhamCity_207_Catwom\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_207_Catwom.jpg?resize=300%2C168\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_207_Catwom.jpg?resize=300%2C168 300w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_207_Catwom-1024x576.jpg 1024w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_207_Catwom.jpg 1500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>An orphan, Catwoman turned to thievery to survive. She learned martial arts and trained in gymnastics to perfect her skills. She maintains a complicated and competitive relationship with Batman that borders on romantic.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_215_Catwom.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-27820\" title=\"BatmanArkhamCity_215_Catwom\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_215_Catwom.jpg?resize=300%2C168\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_215_Catwom.jpg?resize=300%2C168 300w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_215_Catwom-1024x576.jpg 1024w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_215_Catwom.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a>Catwoman was recently incarcerated inside Arkham City where she may be hunting down Two-Face for her own reasons<strong>.\u00a0 <\/strong>Her style is markedly different than Batman&#8217;s. While Batman uses expensive gadgets and ziplines to get around Arkham City, Catwoman uses her whip to swing from point to point, in addition to using the claws in her gloves for the grip needed to scale buildings.<\/p>\n<p>Catwoman is also a master of stealth and can fix onto any mesh ceiling which gives her the ability to travel above the heads of her foes. Catwoman can even drop down on foes from above and take them out with a Takedown before returning to the ceiling to escape.\u00a0 Every surface may provide a tactical advantage for her and a player can become quite creative.<\/p>\n<div id=\"tiplist\">\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_199_Catwom.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-27818\" title=\"BatmanArkhamCity_199_Catwom\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_199_Catwom.jpg?resize=300%2C168\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_199_Catwom.jpg?resize=300%2C168 300w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_199_Catwom-1024x576.jpg 1024w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_199_Catwom.jpg 1500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a>Catwoman&#8217;s arsenal includes, pouncing, using her trademark whip and bolas.\u00a0 If the mob is too large, she uses<strong><\/strong> caltrops.\u00a0 Caltrops are small spikes that can be used to keep enemies away or to isolate an enemy in combat. They can even be used during combat.<\/p>\n<p>There is a lot of varied gameplay and moves to learn playing as Batman or Catwoman.\u00a0 Let&#8217;s take a look at PhysX, DX11 effects and 3D Vision<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"tiplist\">\n<p><!--pagetitle: The Story &#038; Gameplay--><!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<h3><strong>PhysX in Batman: Arkham City<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Penguin_BMcrouch_PhysXOn_1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-27829\" title=\"Penguin_BMcrouch_PhysXOn_1\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Penguin_BMcrouch_PhysXOn_1.jpg?resize=300%2C168\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Penguin_BMcrouch_PhysXOn_1.jpg?resize=300%2C168 300w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Penguin_BMcrouch_PhysXOn_1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Penguin_BMcrouch_PhysXOn_1.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a>Batman: Arkham City utilizes Nvidia&#8217;s PhysX technology in elements of the game to create a more realistic physics-based experience.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>With PhysX set to \u201cOff,\u201d the player will experience the game much like on the XBox 360 &#8211; without any PhysX effects<\/li>\n<li>With PhysX set to \u201cNormal,\u201d the player will experience exploding particles, fluid smoke and destructible elements.<\/li>\n<li>At the \u201cHigh\u201d PhysX setting, the user experiences real time cloth and paper simulation like leaflets, trash and money.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These settings can be adjusted by adjusting the \u201cHardware Accelerated PhysX\u201d option in the Batman Arkham City launcher options. Each produces a different level of in-game effects and each has increased hardware requirements.<\/p>\n<p>Particle PhysX effects are everywhere in <em>Batman: Arkham City<\/em> to intensify dramatic scenes.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Penguin_FreezeGun_closeup.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-27830\" title=\"Penguin_FreezeGun_closeup\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Penguin_FreezeGun_closeup.jpg?resize=300%2C168\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Penguin_FreezeGun_closeup.jpg?resize=300%2C168 300w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Penguin_FreezeGun_closeup-1024x576.jpg 1024w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Penguin_FreezeGun_closeup.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><br \/>\nExamples of PhysX include ice debris particles that shoot from the Freeze Gun and shattering ice from Freeze Grenades as well as sparks and interactive smoke.\u00a0 Breakable glass is another noticeable feature as are debris and steam &#8211; this all adds to the game&#8217;s atmosphere.<\/p>\n<blockquote><p><a href=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Catwoman_money_distance.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-27827\" title=\"Catwoman_money_distance\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Catwoman_money_distance.jpg?resize=300%2C168\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Catwoman_money_distance.jpg?resize=300%2C168 300w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Catwoman_money_distance-1024x576.jpg 1024w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Catwoman_money_distance.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a>With PhysX enabled and set to \u201cHigh\u201d, the money littering the floor in the vault reacts to character and weapon movement in real-time.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p>We also see realistically moving curtains, museum tickets, posters, and office papers as well as clothing moving more naturally.\u00a0 Without PhysX, clothing is a lot stiffer and it does not move naturally.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Batman_through_glass.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-27817\" title=\"Batman_through_glass\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Batman_through_glass.jpg?resize=300%2C168\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Batman_through_glass.jpg?resize=300%2C168 300w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Batman_through_glass-1024x576.jpg 1024w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Batman_through_glass.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a>Did we mention breaking glass?<\/p>\n<p><strong>FXAA<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>FXAA is a shader based image filter developed by Nvidia which reduces visible aliasing. It is applied along with other post processing steps like motion blur and bloom. For game engines making use of deferred shading, FXAA provides for less of a performance and memory hit over using deferred shading with MSAA. Not only does FXAA cost less in terms of a performance hit, but the visual difference is very clear over not using it at all.<br \/>\n<strong> <\/strong><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Tessellation in Batman: Arkham City<\/strong><br \/>\n<em><\/em><\/h3>\n<p><em>Batman: Arkham City<\/em> offers support for DirectX 11 tessellation which is a good way to increase the level of detail in a scene.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Catwoman_Vine_TessON.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-27828\" title=\"Catwoman_Vine_TessON\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Catwoman_Vine_TessON.jpg?resize=538%2C302\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Catwoman_Vine_TessON.jpg?resize=538%2C302 1920w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Catwoman_Vine_TessON-300x168.jpg 300w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Catwoman_Vine_TessON-1024x576.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 538px) 100vw, 538px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a>Look very carefully at the tessellation on the vine set to &#8220;high&#8221; (no, not <em>there!<\/em> &#8211; at the vine <em>below<\/em>) and compare the three levels of tessellation from left to right: none, normal and high.<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Tess-off-normal-high.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-27837\" title=\"Tess-off-normal-high\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Tess-off-normal-high.jpg?resize=539%2C291\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Tess-off-normal-high.jpg?resize=539%2C291 539w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Tess-off-normal-high-300x161.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 539px) 100vw, 539px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a>Since Epic added support for DX11 tessellation to the Unreal Engine, Rocksteady also used DX11 tessellation in <em>Batman: Arkham City<\/em> for displacement mapping and smoothing on characters and environments.\u00a0 Displacement mapping adds fine geometric detail to a mesh using data sourced from textures. This means the artist can more easily set up complex displacement-mapping effects, such as animations.<\/p>\n<p>Mesh smoothing adds tessellated triangles to break up harsh angular outlines. The technique used in B<em>atman: Arkham City<\/em> is based on a watertight variant of PN triangles and it is applied on objects which should appear sinuous or organic, such as power cables, pipes and trees.<\/p>\n<p>Of course there are many other DX11 tessellation points of interest in <em>Batman: Arkham City<\/em> including, Virtual Dicing, Mip-Mapping, Multi View Soft Shadows (MVSS), and Horizon-Based Ambient Occlusion (HBAO).\u00a0 The visual result is a real-time lighting and shadow placement solution that takes depth in account while being smoothed by a blur kernel which gives the player a realistic effect.<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_272_JKR1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-27825\" title=\"BatmanArkhamCity_272_JKR1\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_272_JKR1.jpg?resize=300%2C168\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_272_JKR1.jpg?resize=300%2C168 300w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_272_JKR1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/BatmanArkhamCity_272_JKR1.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a>Combining all of these features creates an impressive cinematic look to <em>Batman: Arkham City<\/em> and immerses the gamer into Batman&#8217;s dark world.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>3D Vision<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/PopOut-1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/PopOut-1.jpg?resize=300%2C200\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/3d-vision-mega-evaluation-gimmick-or-gamings-future\">3D Vision<\/a> offers a more immersive stereoscopic 3D experience over playing the game in 2D. A combination of high-tech wireless glasses and advanced software, 3D Vision&#8217;s drivers automatically transforms over 500 PC games into full stereoscopic 3D. I n addition, you can watch Blu-ray 3D, view 3D digital photographs, and even stream YouTube 3D videos.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>NVIDIA 3D Vision 2<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/10\/VG278_with-glasses-01.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/10\/VG278_with-glasses-01.jpg?resize=450%2C366\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/nvidia-introduces-3d-vision-2\">3D Vision 2<\/a> is the next generation of Nvidia\u2019s stereoscopic 3D technology and features a number of new innovations.<br \/>\nThe first innovation is new active shutter glasses that have larger lenses and improved materials.\u00a0 The second innovation is LightBoost which delivers brighter 3D screen images and richer color quality than existing display technologies.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Cut-scenes are in 3D<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>All of the elements of Batman: Arkham City are in 3D. This includes everything from the\u00a0 interactive 3D character portraits to every in-game cut-scene. The in-game cut-scenes are rendered in full HD 1080p 3D video for the highest quality cinematics. The characters from the <em>Batman: Arkham City<\/em> universe come alive in stereoscopic 3D Vision.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Penguin_thugs.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-27831\" title=\"Penguin_thugs\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Penguin_thugs.jpg?resize=300%2C168\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Penguin_thugs.jpg?resize=300%2C168 300w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Penguin_thugs-1024x576.jpg 1024w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Penguin_thugs.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Using 3D Depth\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>According to Nvidia, with real time depth information being delivered via 3D Vision, the gamer has an advantage when gauging certain aspects of <em>Batman: Arkham City<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>Nvidia claims that the large environments and sandbox style interaction with the world of Arkham City make the S3D benefits especially noticeable since 3D Vision gives 3D gamers the tools to interact with the environment in a way that 2D gamers cannot.\u00a0 This is something that we will play particular attention to in our 3D Vision evaluation of <em>Batman: Arkham City<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>Of course, there is a performance penalty for playing with 3D Vision.\u00a0 The expected performance when running the built in benchmark with 3D Vision enabled at 1920&#215;1080 resolution, FXAA High, DX11 Disabled, and PhysX High is 33.8 fps for the GTX 560 Ti and 36.5 for the GTX 570.<\/p>\n<p>Let&#8217;s look at the game&#8217;s system requirements as well as the more specific recommendations for playing with GeForce cards and playable settings with PhysX and 3D Vision<br \/>\n<!--pagetitle: DX11, PhysX &#038; 3D Vision--><!--nextpage--><!--pagetitle: HW requirements, Performance &#038; Conclusion--><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Hardware Requirements, Performance &amp; Conclusion<br \/>\n<\/strong><\/h2>\n<h3>Minimum System Requirements<\/h3>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">Operating System: Microsoft Windows XP, Vista or 7<br \/>\nCPU: Dual-Core CPU 2.4 Ghz<br \/>\nRAM: 2GB<br \/>\nGraphics Card: NVIDIA 8800 or ATI 3800 with 512MB of VRAM<br \/>\nSound: Microsoft Windows XP\/Vista or 7 compatible sound card (100% DirectX 9.0c-compatible)<br \/>\nDVD-ROM: Quad-speed (4x) DVD-ROM drive<br \/>\nHard Drive: 17.5GB free disk space<br \/>\nInput Devices: 100% Windows XP\/Vista or 7 compatible mouse and keyboard<\/p>\n<h3>Recommended System Requirements<\/h3>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7<br \/>\nCPU: Dual-Core CPU 2.5 GHz<br \/>\nRAM: 4GB<br \/>\nGraphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 460 or ATI Radeon HD 6850 with 768MB+ of VRAM (DirectX 11 compatible)<br \/>\nSound: Microsoft Windows XP\/Vista or 7 compatible sound card (100% DirectX 9.0c-compatible)<br \/>\nDVD-ROM: Quad-speed (4x) DVD-ROM drive<br \/>\nHard Drive: 17.5 GB free disk space<br \/>\nInput Devices: 100% Windows XP\/Vista or 7 compatible mouse and keyboard or Xbox 360 Controller for Windows<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Performance<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Here is Nvidia&#8217;s chart featuring playable settings of what a gamer can expect with selected GTX 500 series video cards.\u00a0\u00a0 We will test this out of course.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/GPU-Chart1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-27843\" title=\"GPU-Chart\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/GPU-Chart1.jpg?resize=500%2C189\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/GPU-Chart1.jpg?resize=500%2C189 500w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/GPU-Chart1-300x113.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><strong>3D Vision Performance<br \/>\n<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>The expected performance when running the built in benchmark with 3D Vision enabled at 1920&#215;1080 resolution, FXAA High, DX11 Disabled, and PhysX High is 33.8 fps for the GTX 560 Ti and 36.5 for the GTX 570.\u00a0 Of course, we will confirm this after we finish downloading and playing <em>Batman: Arkham City<\/em>. \u00a0 Expect a 3D Vision evaluation and a real conclusion and we will add this game shortly to our benchmarks.<\/p>\n<p>If you decide to upgrade and buy a new video card for the game, note that several of Nvidia&#8217;s partners are offering <em>a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.geforce.com\/GamesandApps\/games\/batman-arkham-city\/Promo\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.geforce.com\/GamesandApps\/games\/batman-arkham-city\/Promo', 'free copy of the game']);\" >free copy of the game<\/a> for a limited time<\/em>.\u00a0 EVGA even has its own <a href=\"http:\/\/www.evga.com\/articles\/00654\/\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.evga.com\/articles\/00654\/', 'Batman: Arkham City-themed GTX 580']);\" >Batman: Arkham City-themed GTX 580<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/www.evga.com\/articles\/00654\/images\/BAC_580_banner.png\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/www.evga.com\/articles\/00654\/images\/BAC_580_banner.png?resize=461%2C138', '']);\" ><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/www.evga.com\/articles\/00654\/images\/BAC_580_banner.png?resize=461%2C138\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>We will be back with a full 3D Evaluation of the game.\u00a0 In the meantime, <em>Batman: Arkham City<\/em> comes highly recommended.\u00a0 Our web master gives this game <strong>a solid 9<\/strong> from the XBox 360 experience &#8211; and that is without PhysX or 3D Vision!\u00a0 He calls it the perfect balance between story-driven and &#8216;open-world&#8217;.\u00a0 Stringing together Batman&#8217;s fighting combinations for devastating results are satisfying and top-notch.<\/p>\n<p>Stay tuned as we have many more reviews and evaluations coming up.\u00a0 Tonight, you can expect a full review of the Thermaltake eSports MEKA compact gaming keyboard.\u00a0 We have learned quite a bit about mechanical keys and keyboards that we would like to share with you.\u00a0 And of course, join us in our ABT forum and speak your mind!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<blockquote><p>Please join us in our <a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/abt\/index.php\" target=\"_blank\">Forums<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Become a Fan on <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/AlienBabelTech\/123268467142\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/AlienBabelTech\/123268467142', 'Facebook']);\" target=\"_blank\">Facebook<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Follow us on <a href=\"http:\/\/twitter.com\/alienbabeltech\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/twitter.com\/alienbabeltech', 'Twitter']);\" target=\"_blank\">Twitter<\/a><\/p>\n<p>For the latest updates from ABT, please <a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/?feed=rss2\" target=\"_blank\">join our RSS News Feed<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Join our Distributed Computing teams<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Folding@Home &#8211; Team AlienBabelTech &#8211; 164304<\/li>\n<li>SETI@Home &#8211; Team AlienBabelTech &#8211; 138705<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/www.worldcommunitygrid.org\/reg\/viewRegister.do?teamID=3P39R3SRV1\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.worldcommunitygrid.org\/reg\/viewRegister.do?teamID=3P39R3SRV1', 'World Community Grid &#8211; Team AlienBabelTech']);\" target=\"_blank\">World Community Grid &#8211; Team AlienBabelTech<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/blockquote>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/?p=27816\"><img decoding=\"async\" align=top title=\"Author: Mark Poppin\" src=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/ImageLink-fin.jpg\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":27849,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2533,7814,5,4453],"tags":[1087,4708,4982,121,4985,539,4983,4984],"class_list":["post-27816","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-abt-news","category-articles","category-gaming","category-software-2","tag-3d-vision","tag-3d-vision-surround","tag-batman-arkham-city","tag-nvidia","tag-pc-game","tag-physx","tag-preview","tag-warner-bros"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27816","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=27816"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27816\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/27849"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=27816"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=27816"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=27816"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}