‘We Are Not Leaving Anything Behind’ — How Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight is Balancing Old and New | IGN Fan Fest 2026

IGN

by Simon Cardy

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight aims to strike a balance between honoring the franchise’s roots and introducing fresh, modern elements, according to Jonathan Smith, Head of Development at TT Games. While previous Lego titles were known for consistency and a formulaic approach, this new game seeks to evolve by drawing inspiration from Rocksteady’s Arkham series and building on the innovations seen in *Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga*. The goal is to create deeper, more immersive gameplay while maintaining the accessibility that fans love. One key departure from traditional Lego games is the reduced roster of playable characters—just seven compared to the hundreds seen in previous titles. This allows for greater focus on character development and depth. Each character, including Catwoman, undergoes a journey where they gain new skills and abilities throughout the game. Catwoman, for example, evolves across eras of her screen depictions, from Julie Newmar’s 1960s thief to Zoe Kravitz’s modern antihero. Her toolset includes a versatile whip, a laser pointer that controls a clawed kitten, and hand-to-hand combat rooted in Rocksteady’s signature punch-dodge-parry system. The game also emphasizes character personality and unique abilities, ensuring each member of the Bat family feels distinct and authentic. Smith highlights the importance of creating an “essential version” of each hero and villain, with Catwoman showcasing this approach through her evolving skillset and screen presence. The game’s design aims to make environments more expansive and rewarding while staying true to the Lego brand’s playful spirit. This shift toward character depth and gameplay refinement marks a new chapter for TT Games. By focusing on fewer characters and building out their stories

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Originally published on IGN on 2/25/2026