We have new details for you from Batman: Arkham Knight. This pertains to the Arkham Knight himself. Particularly, we learn how Rocksteady designed his costume.
The mask serves several functions. First, it covers every trace of the Arkham Knight’s identity. Second, it gives him a heads-up display, so that he can track down the actions of his private army, as they take over Gotham. This information is actually streamed inside his visor, and Rocksteady emphasizes that this gives the illusion that his eyes turn an inhuman red. Rocksteady words this description in such a way that they make it clear that he is a man, and that he is not a robot or android of any sort.
Arkham Knight’s plate armor has also been deliberately designed for Batman. The A-shape of the armor is intended to be reminiscent of the logo of Arkham Asylum. Taking it one step closer, however, it has been made in such a way that it deflects the Batclaw. It seems that the Knight knows what happened to Bruce duringArkham Knight and Arkham City, and is using that information to his advantage. Our source, CabooseXBL, predicts Arkham Knight will be revealed as Azrael, based on this information.
The gauntlet’s design was influenced by fighter aircraft. These are highly resistant, unable to reflect images, and very potent. The gauntlets themselves are armored, and will repel with the small blades on its surface while providing a defensive role.
Even the Knight’s red camouflage pattern gets an explanation. This camo makes him easy to identify to his own soldiers. Beyond that, the combination of greys and reds means he can hide himself easily in plain sight in Gotham itself. The material used to cover his biceps and triceps themselves are made of reflective material and add to the camouflage effect.
The Knight’s utility belt, like everything mentioned above, was designed around Batman, as both a reflection of Bruce’s abilities, as well as an answer to them. This belt is worn low slung, to reflect the Knight’s confidence against Batman, and has the same capabilities as Batman’s belt. These hints imply at a younger Arkham Knight.
Ultimately, as a centerpiece villain for the game, the Knight is a dark counterpart to Batman. He knows everything about Batman, including his tactics, gadgets, and weaknesses. His overall identity is intended to both mock Bruce, and rally the Knight’s army, with confidence in his cause and abilities.
Lastly, the Arkham Knight bat-ears are actually transmitters that relay his commands to his army. However, they are also intended to attack Batman psychologically, as a way of mocking Batman’s image.
Batman: Arkham Knight is coming in 2015 to Windows, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. You can watch CabooseXBL’s video on the topic below.