James Gunn, the acclaimed director behind the upcoming film “Superman: Legacy” and a key architect shaping the new lineup of live-action DC films, has hinted at the potential for more Arkhamverse video games following the highly anticipated release of “Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League.” Gunn, known for his contributions to both film and gaming realms, was involved in scripting 2012’s “Lollipop Chainsaw” and expressed admiration for Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy” upon its launch in 2021.
While Gunn rose to superhero film prominence through his work with Marvel’s Guardians in the MCU, he has transitioned to the DC universe following his successful direction of “The Suicide Squad” in 2021. His prominence led to being named co-head of DC Studios, marking a significant shift towards a new cinematic DC universe encompassing films, TV shows, and notably, video games. Notably, the character Peacemaker from Gunn’s “The Suicide Squad” and the associated series will make an appearance as a guest fighter in “Mortal Kombat 1,” reflecting the live-action adaptation.
Gunn, who has previously expressed fondness for Rocksteady’s Batman: Arkham games, responded to a query about the Arkham series’ future after “Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League” debuts in February. In a now-deleted reply, Gunn hinted that, as far as he’s aware, there are no definitive plans for “Suicide Squad” to mark the conclusion of Rocksteady’s gaming continuity. He also expressed enthusiasm for “Suicide Squad” and any potential future games developed by Rocksteady.
Although 2015’s “Batman: Arkham Knight” was initially presented as the conclusion of Rocksteady’s Arkhamverse, the announcement of “Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League” signaled a spin-off. This upcoming game places players in control of a group of villains tasked with neutralizing mind-controlled Earth’s heroes, featuring the return of the Arkhamverse Batman voiced by the late Kevin Conroy. Speculations have emerged about a possible Arkhamverse reboot post-“Suicide Squad,” yet no official confirmation has surfaced.
Gunn’s recent remarks about the Arkham gaming continuity’s future aren’t definitive confirmations of upcoming sequels or spin-offs, prompting fans to approach these statements with cautious optimism. Nonetheless, speculations among fans abound, pondering potential future games centered around heroes, with Superman being a popular choice, especially given Gunn’s involvement in directing the upcoming Superman film. As fans await the release of “Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League” on February 2, the future of the Arkhamverse continues to pique curiosity and anticipation.