The NES Batman sequel, even more visually spectacular. Bosses are imposing and levels are varied. One of the most graphically beautiful NES games. Essential for Dark Knight fans.
Your verdict
Category
Action Adventure1 player7+
Description
Batman sequel with the Joker returning to face Batman in new levels. Published by Sunsoft, released in Europe in 1992. Batman with new acrobatic moves and weapons in darker more difficult levels and spectacular bosses. Second Sunsoft Batman on NES.
Batman - Return of the Joker review
4/5
Art direction
★★★★★
"Striking"
MAX
Music
★★★★★
"Legendary"
2/5
Story
★★★★★
"Classic"
An astonishing technical feat, Naoki Kodaka's soundtrack pushes the limits of the NES with staggering basses and arrangements worthy of a rock record. Each theme, rich and punchy, far transcends the framework of the era's video game. This sonic triumph is often cited among the finest on the console.
Gameplay
"Excellent"
Fun
"From the very first minutes"
Addictiveness
"Engaging"
Difficulty
"Difficult"
Lifespan
"Short"
Technical info
💾0,2 MB📅01/01/1992
Published by Sunsoft
Batman - Return of the Joker (NES) price, value & rarity
The PAL version of this Sunsoft sequel is markedly rarer than the US one, as its high rarity rating reflects. Released in Europe in 1992 in a reduced run, Return of the Joker carries Sunsoft's technical reputation, whose graphics engine and soundtrack ranked among the most advanced on the late-generation NES. The scarcity of complete European-boxed copies explains the price gap with the earlier North American release.
An underrated gem
Sunsoft polished this sequel down to the last pixel: richly detailed backdrops, graphical effects that astound on the NES, and a thunderous soundtrack. The stiffer, somewhat short gameplay earned it a lukewarm reception. But for anyone curious how far the console could be pushed technically, this dark ride remains a stunning showcase.
Is Batman - Return of the Joker still worth playing in 2026?
A sequel to Sunsoft's Batman, Return of the Joker pits the vigilante against his arch enemy again in an action platformer of dazzling technical production, among the most impressive on NES, with huge sprites and remarkable graphical effects. The gameplay, focused on shooting and mobility, gains variety, even if it loses a little of the first's gothic aura. The difficulty stays demanding. For a retro action fan, a Batman fan or someone curious about 8 bit technical showcases, the title keeps a definite visual brilliance and action pleasure.
