Who is your Batman?
Is your Batman 'you'? Or is he who you strive to be? Or does he simply represent an ideal to you? Or a little from each column?
I tried browsing through for a similar discussion, but I didn't see this question posed directly. Now that Episode 3 is looming, I think it'd be interesting to hear who your Bruce/Batmans are, and what overarching philosophies are driving them.
Does he care more about justice, or vengeance? Does he see violence as a useful tool, or does he abhor it completely? Does he believe ends justify the means? And of course, does he prefer to live as Bruce and thus align more with Harvey, or does he prefer the night with Selina (bow chicka)? Stuffing or potatoes? Do you share any or all of these feelings and beliefs?
I think inevitably, a little bit of ourselves will show up in 'our' Batmans regardless. However, I am trying to make choices based not on necessarily what would I do, but rather what I think Batman would do. Yes, WWBD. I interpret that as choosing restraint whenever possible. Means are not justified by the ends. I intend to use force only when necessary, using the Bat only when absolutely necessary, being the 'knight', etc. For me, that is Batman. Bruce doesn't care if his image is messy and politically toxic, so long as Batman can do right.
Oh, and potatoes.
(And sorry if I'm blind and this has been posted/discussed ad nauseam before.)
Comments
well my batman is kind of the ends justify the means kind of guy he's much more darker and brutal than other batman's and struggles with crossing the line often when it comes to criminals.
I impaled Falcone and broke the shooters arm , and agreed with Oswald that Falcone deserved to die. I feel that those who are willing to do harm to others shouldn't expect mercy of any kind. my Bruce on the other hand is a jerk ass with a heart of gold and is somewhat anti social and would rather be beating up bad guys than being a billionaire, his relationship with cat woman is complicated while he does desire companionship he feels it interferes to much with him being batman, plus Selina is still somewhat of a criminal so its a little hard for my Bruce to trust her. My Bruce does care about the people of Gotham though Alfred, Harvey, Gordon, Selina, Vikki , he just has a hard time of showing it.
My Batman is kind of like me? I'd say that he exhibits both my flaws and ideals, at least to the extent at which the game allows. I don't influence his person entirely, but his character is heavily shaped by mine. A lot of times I guess I do or say what Batman would, but I'm not consciously inquiring and acting on WWBD.
My Batman is heavily concerned with justice, and because of my nonviolent nature, is not vengeful in the slightest. You better count your blessings here, Falcone and Mr. dock shooter. Still, he will resort to more violent actions if neccessary, despite how much he doesn't want to.
He can be somewhat of a people-pleaser, and tries his best to get on others' good side, as long as doing so won't sacrifice what he believes in. (Will he give Falcone's hand a good 'Ole shaking and play nice? Yerp. Will he imply that he approves of Falcone's methods or agree to any shady terms to get on his good side? Hell no!) He'll try to give someone a hand in times of need, despite whatever feelings he harbors towards this particular person. In a way, his altruism can lead to a few selfish actions. If a more immoral act could lead to a brighter future, he would possibly forgo it to stick to his morals.
While he may be wary of entrusting anyone with personal information, including friends, he puts great stock into his relationships, and will do anything in his power to help and support his close-ones. He even may consider doing something he wouldn't do typically if advised by someone he deeply trusts. He warms up to others easily, but at the same time it takes a while to earn his trust.
I'd say that my Batman is concerned with both of his reputations, but he is willing to sacrifice his rep for the greater good. (ie. visiting Mayor Hill as Batman because I can't smooth talk my way out of a paper-bag)
I could go on with more specifics, but I guess I could say that he's more Bruce than Batman, even while in the suit, if that makes sense. Pretty typical, in all honesty, but I don't mind. If this entire post is unreadable, I apologize. I am currently falling asleep.
This is probably the nicest Ive ever played a Telltale game sense Lee. Im as non violent as possible, try to keep Batman in a positive light. Nice to criminals, became best buds with Frank, ect.
My Batman would be as nonviolent as possible, to counter his parents' murder.
When I play TellTale Games' games I try to play it as what would I do in the given situation. So my characters usually end up being the nicest characters hahaha!!
Cool, and that makes sense. Like, to your Batman, a shattered bone or two is peanuts compared to the damage organized crime does to other innocent lives. It makes even more sense when the people he personally cares about are in the back of his mind.
And a good point about Bruce wanting to do more good as Batman, but understanding that he still has to make the best of his public, daytime persona. And perhaps knowing that Bruce can accomplish things that Batman can't?
Thanks for the reply!
No problemo. You're a lot more coherent than I am when I'm tired. I tend to ramble even when I'm alert, so I can't judge.
This question is meant to be a lot open-ended, too
I love your reasoning for meeting Hill as Batman-- that Batman can take a fall where Bruce can’t afford to. I hadn’t thought of it like that! So cool to hear how people reached their decisions, especially when they’re different than what I picked. I showed up as Bruce to meet with Hill, because of A) wanting to use the Bat only when there’s no other option, and B ) to rehash my point above, I think Bruce represents a different set of tools for solving a problem, even if they aren't pointy and expensive.
I also lean towards nonviolent choices. But I admit, I get pangs of vindictiveness when a character throws a cheeky insult my way. I often enjoy the simple purity of a "fuck off" when it’s a dialogue option. But again, restraint is my goal, and to be the bigger person in whatever situation. So perhaps B-man represents more of an ideal for myself as well.
your welcome, thanks for making this thread, really cant wait for episode 3.
Protects the innocents, kills the guilty.
Kinda play Bats similar to how I played as Bigby, I don't mind being a bit of an ass every once in awhile.
As Bruce, I try to be a nice guy the best I can, though I'm not above making a smart ass comment when tempted and be cunning to get what I need. I also accept all the advice and wisdom Alfred tells me.
As Batman, I try to play the hero and the good cop while showing restraint and mercy at any given opportunity so I don't end up going too far in taking down the bad guys.
I play as how I myself would do or say in the given situation.
I'm glad to hear that you could make out what I was trying to say about the Mayor Hill choice. (And my entire comment in general) I wouldn't be surprised if I accidentally started typing in Russian or something.
And since you brought it up, I agree that sometimes a "fuck off" option can be extremely pleasant. I tend to gravitate towards more subtle insult options though. I can't think of any specific examples, but nothing beats spewing a brutally honest and stinging comment into someone's face while maintaining a cool demeanor. Have there been any options like that though? I know that in other Telltale games, there gets to a point where I just have to use one of those.
I'd say for the most part though, my poor Bruce ends up standing there taking someone's shit. I guess that could make the aforementioned example that much more satisfying. Eh, maybe not entirely.
Still, there is some solace in knowing that when Bruce loses, Batman prevails. His foes may not realize that Bruce technically got the one-up one them, but it still counts. I kind of like that: Bruce the verbal punching-bag, Batman the enforcer. It's almost poetic justice!
And you're right about Bruce having just as valuable as a skill-set as Batman. No piece of equipment is more pointy than a sharp mind!
...And here goes more of me dragging out one sentence into 30 disorganized paragraphs. Rambling for the win!
Yeah! Rambling! Fist bump to that.
Fiona springs to mind here. I can't remember specific lines, but this is pretty much how I responded in every single interaction with Kroger and Finch. And you're right, it is satisfying to wrap a "fuck you" with sharp words and a cool delivery. Deal-with-it sunglasses optional.
And you know? Strategically, it can work to Bruce's advantage to play the oblivious lamb. You never know what people might be apt to spill when they see you as inconsequential.
And then you beat them up later as Batman. Balance is restored.
Well, for Bruce, I play the nice, innocent, unwitting billionaire who can fight for himself sometimes if need be. I have to keep people on their toes, you know?
And my Batman is a slightly harsh vigilante who isn't afraid to turn the knife at times when the situation calls for it. More of the "Break criminal's ribs" kind of Batman. Not too nice (Intimidate) and not too harsh (Hit head), but can easily get pushed over the edge (Impale Falcone) when he needs to prove a point.
Thanks for all the replies so far, this is so interesting. Definitely have some variation as far as whether you guys are playing as yourselves, or playing a little strategically-- and whether your Batman is the true knight, or the crusader.
And it's fun to know how people are also playing Bruce in comparison. Gonna save that idea for a follow-up post down the line.
Overall, I play the game as if I'm in that role without any knowledge of what's bound to happen to certain characters. With that said, as Bruce I typically find myself playing the charismatic charming young billionaire who lost his parents to a horrible murderer. I strive for what's best by supporting Harvey Dent until his tragedy at the debate. With friends, I am less charismatic and more concerned about their well-being. As Batman I am bold, direct, respectful, but doing what's best for everyone no matter how bad I may look. I don't do this for excitement, I don't do this out of some belief that I'm better, I do this because I know that I am more than capable. I make the choices people would hesitate upon because the safety of people are on the line. I am willing to carry the weight of the consequences of my actions as long as it means that more people can go to sleep in my city feeling safer thanks to me. I'll never cross the line by killing someone, nor would I put them in a situation where they could die (wouldn't impale Falcone, and saved Selina since she's there because of me).
But yeah, to be less dramatic with my answer, I have a moral code and a short-temper. I don't like to be lectured by Alfred or Gordon because I know what I'm doing. It may get ugly sometimes, but I won't kill someone. Beating up a corrupt mayor for information may seem extreme, but it's what I believed needed to be done. I do what I think is best even if it makes others fear or hate me.
Don't have much to say except that is awesome. I found myself nodding, especially with how you respond to Alfred & Gordon. Thank you for the thorough response.
Harsh and brutal, but not completely unfair. Bruce Wayne, is a sarcastic douche but he can be serious when the time calls for it.
I portray my Batman as who cares greatly for those who are close to him, whether Harvey or Catwoman, but also as someone who can sometimes let his emotions overcome his judgement. For example; at the docks crime scene, he found the gunman who set off the explosives and in the process got a lot of cops killed. Batman was pissed. He punched the shooter in the face, broke his ribs, and broke his arm. He stayed long enough to tell Gordon and Montoya about the chemicals, but Gordon criticized his interrogation methods, and Alfred was disappointed in Bruce for going too far. He kept the movie tickets to remind himself to never go over the edge again, so when it came to Falcone, Batman was able to restrain himself and arrest him, rather than brutalize him. Of course, after finding out the truth about his parents from Falcone, hearing their crimes listed by Hill, and seeing it with his own eyes in the tape released by the Children of Arkham, it's becoming harder and harder for him to keep himself in check.
After this latest episode, I realized I do prefer playing Bruce as a seemingly harmless lamb. While I'll stand up for myself in some cases (e.g. going off script to deny responsibility for my father's actions) I mostly chose to cooperate with stepping down and handing Wayne Enterprises over to Cobblepot, because I want my enemies think of me as harmless, not only to protect my identity, but to not screw my chances at intelligence opportunities and/or negotiating because everyone thinks I'm an unstable guy with a temper.
But then I got stabbed with crazy juice. What can ya do.
I hope it's not frowned upon for me to necrobump this question now that the season has wrapped up?
I'm really curious to know if anyone changed the way they played/saw their Bruce/Batman at all during the story, or kept it mostly consistent. Or a mix?
Please don't forget to tag spoilers.
Also please don't string me up too high if this is a faux pas. I don't like heights very much
My Bruce is friendly and pretty damn Charming at certain moments. My Batman however is lowkey like Ben Affleck's. My Batman is super violent .
Dick Grayson.
My Batman was just a mask. Bruce is his real face. I've decided that be it as Bruce or Batman, my Bruce no longer has need for friends or love interests besides Alfred and Lucius. He's a distant, cold dark knight/business man that worries only about getting things done.
I stayed consistent with the idea of Bruce being the dominant persona and owning Batman, rather than the other way around. Batman is a symbol, but also a power that needs careful restraint. While it may never materialize, Bruce's dream is to get Gotham to a place where he can retire Batman for good.
I admit, while I personally don't like the idea of militarized police, I went with the option to have Bruce reform and reequip the GCPD for this reason. If it were anyone other than Gordon at the head, I would have chosen Arkham.
My Batman is not a wild animal, granted. I did my best not to be needlessly brutal and insensitive, like with the orphan child at the Vales. The only people I want Batman to terrify are criminals.
Still thinking about this, so more later, prob.
Since I love Batman stories like The Dark Knight Returns for me Batman was his true self but when it comes to the the Telltale game I see it differently.
Ultimately it has been used both ways and I like both equally.
Nice to people I cared about, Alfred, Selina, Gordon and even Harvey. As Harvey betrayed me I didn't want to make him suffer more than he already had. Selina I decided to be nice with, cause sure she played me, but she seemed to still care about Bruce, and I still liked her as a character. Alfred and Gordon is obvious why I cared for them. The ''bad guys'' I gave the cold shoulder, I didn't really care about them that much. To vicki I kinda came down on a personal level. (Spoiler for ending of episode 5) I took of my mask and made the fight more personal. I also said she was right about my father (More to kinda distract her so she wouldn't really hurt Alfred)
TL;DR I was nice to my friends and ignored the so called ''bad guys''
My Batman is a mask that Bruce wears when he can't go out and be a badass and save the day as himself. Given half a chance, he will go as himself. He went to see Hill, Harvey, and Gordon as himself. He so wants to go as himself when he can that he even forgot that actually he didn't give Vicki Montoya's name (seriously, how is "she owes me" not about Batman saving her life at the debate?). He said as much to Vicki at the end although the symbol probably applies, too.
He seems to have some identity confusion with the way he'll refer to Batman and Bruce Wayne in the third person and I headcanon this was what he settled on after confusing himself and Alfred and Lucius by saying "me me" and "Batman me" all the time. It's actually a wonder anyone takes him at all seriously when he threatens them because, as Harvey would have said had I visited him as Batman, he never hurts anyone if he doesn't have to.
Bruce is fairly honest with people and always caved and admitted what was going on (except the Batman thing) and how he was feeling when Harvey or Alfred asked. He was kind to everyone and tried to save them. He is trying to be a hero. He never gave up on Harvey and even found sympathy for Vicki, while Alfred was abducted and clearly being hurt, once he found the torture room. He'd never let anyone else take the hit for him and has a bit of a guilt complex though, despite blaming himself for everything, is sick of getting blamed for what his father did. It's not his fault but it is his responsibility.
He didn't give Oswald the reaction he was looking for in episode three because he felt that if he couldn't stop himself from being ousted he might feel better temporarily by pitching a fit but it wouldn't help any and the best control he could have was depriving everyone of a reaction and being the bigger person. It was really, really hard not to snap at Oswald to pick up the watch but by that point he was committed and Oswald was just waiting for him to freak out on him. He was really disappointed when Bruce didn't and that's part of why Bruce was so vexed about the whole Arkham thing. He was SO good and Oswald is so smug about obviously this is how Bruce really feels because he's terrible as if Oswald hadn't spent two solid days needling him first.
He really liked Selina and under different circumstances definitely would have gone to bed with her. But he met her through Harvey and he and Selina were clearly not on the same page about that. And it wasn't even a case of Harvey just getting the wrong idea. Selina openly admits to toying with him and taunts Bruce about what would Harvey think when they meet up and Bruce asks for help at the bar. He really wishes Selina would have backed him up about it being platonic, not that it would have necessarily helped, instead of insisting it was none of Harvey's business and trying to kick him out. She treated him pretty shoddily but, well, his reaction was Not Okay either. Then he didn't care so much Selina was using him (he liked her alright but he was hardly that far gone) but hearing that everything that had happened with Harvey and the rupture of their friendship and being pushed over the edge was a long con for Selina to get to him...he got the postcard in the end but he really felt it was best for them to have some distance from each other, too.
Following has Episode 5 spoilers
I found myself way more invested in Bruce than Batman during this whole series. Episode 2, 4, and 5 all gave a choice on doing something as Bruce or Batman, and each time I went as Bruce. I also found myself playing Batman is a very pacifist way. Never really hurt anyone, and I made up my mind right away during episode 5's build up to revealing your identity. Basically I would do whatever I could to keep everyone alive and safe.
I honestly dont think Ive ever played a Telltale game like this before. I honestly can say I played Batman nicer than Bruce Wayne. I tried to keep Bruce in a professional, Im just some rich guy mode, but I found myself going with choices that involved violence with Bruce more than Batman (Starting the fight in ep 2, punching Harvey in ep 4)
My Bruce Wayne was an all around nice guy to anyone who was his friends or anyone he felt sympathy for. My Batman on the other hand, was excessively brutal and unforgiving to anyone in his way and did what he felt was necessary to stop Gotham's criminals.