As the release date for Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League approaches, Rocksteady Studios has officially revealed that the famed villain Joker will be available as a playable character through post-launch downloadable content. This announcement was made during the third episode of the Suicide Squad Insider developer diary, where the team shared their vision for free seasonal content for players who purchase the game, alongside insights into multiverse concepts and multiplayer features set to be included at launch.
In this episode, titled “Introducing Elseworlds,” the developers showcased their plans for incorporating alternate universes, each featuring distinct DC characters. Starting with the first season of post-launch content in March, players will have the opportunity to unlock the Joker for their squads. Footage from the video presents a younger iteration of the Clown Prince of Crime, set in an alternate universe known as Elseworld. It is important to note that the Joker met his demise in Rocksteady’s earlier Arkham games, specifically in Batman: Arkham City. Johnny Armstrong, the associate design director at Rocksteady, clarified that this version of the Joker belongs to an alternate reality where he serves as a member of the Suicide Squad.
The Elseworld version of the Joker maintains the traditional aesthetics and personality traits associated with the character, including his purple suit, green hair, and chaotic tendencies. However, he must navigate his new surroundings as he adapts to his role in this universe. This younger, less experienced Joker is equipped with unique combat and traversal mechanics, including a rocket-powered umbrella, which allows him to soar through the air and glide seamlessly. Additionally, the umbrella can be utilized for grinding along buildings and for clearing out enemies.
The gameplay footage depicts the Joker effortlessly navigating the environment, employing his umbrella for both traversal and combat against foes using a range of melee weapons and firearms. He will be the first in a series of DC villains that players can unlock as part of the ongoing seasonal content. Rocksteady aims to gradually build a diverse roster of playable DC characters, each offering distinct combat and traversal abilities.
Beyond new characters, the post-launch content is set to introduce fresh environments, challenges, missions, and equipment, all at no additional cost for those who have purchased the main game. Rocksteady also stated that this content will not be confined to a Battle Pass structure and will be integrated into the game alongside the launch of new seasons. In addition to this announcement, the developers elaborated on various multiplayer elements, including squad-based leaderboards and emotes, as well as an outfit customization system for squad members.
While Rocksteady has committed to providing a substantial amount of complimentary content post-launch to enhance player engagement, they have faced some criticism regarding the live-service model of their upcoming title. Fans expressed concerns during the gameplay reveal in February 2023, with particular pushback against elements reflective of the looter shooter genre.
In Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, players will embody four notorious DC supervillains—Captain Boomerang, Deadshot, Harley Quinn, and King Shark—engaging in either solo play or cooperative gameplay with up to four players. The game is scheduled for release on February 2 for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series S/X.
