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 featuring darker levels and more spectacular bosses. Published by Sunsoft, released in Japan in 1992. Batman with new acrobatic moves and weapons in enriched nocturnal Gotham levels. Japanese version of Sunsoft's Batman Return of the Joker on Famicom.
Dynamite Batman 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.
Japanese title for the Famicom version of Sunsoft's Batman Return of the Joker, regarded as one of the most impressive technical showcases on the 8-bit. Sunsoft pushes large sprites, parallax and palette to a level rarely reached on Famicom in 1991. Its collecting interest rests on this end-of-generation feat and on the title distinct from the Western release, sought by fans of Sunsoft and of technical demonstrations on the machine.
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 Dynamite Batman 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.
