Your Complete Guide to Unlocking Every Playable Character in Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight
Introduction
Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight trims the fat from previous Lego games, offering a leaner roster of just seven fully playable characters (not counting brief one-off appearances like Alfred in specific levels). These characters are unlocked through story missions, and each comes with unique abilities and costumes that open up new activities in the open world. This guide walks you through the unlock order with minimal spoilers, so you can plan your heroic journey from the Batcave to the final showdown.
What You Need
- A copy of Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight (any platform)
- A save file with story progression (characters unlock automatically as you complete missions)
- Patience – you cannot skip ahead; characters are tied to specific story milestones
- (Optional) A guide to the game’s open-world puzzles – but this guide covers the essential unlocks
Step-by-Step Unlock Guide
Step 1: Complete the Prologue – Batman and Robin
Start the game and play through the prologue mission. This introductory level automatically unlocks Batman and Robin as your first two playable characters. They’re the core duo for most of the early game. Batman brings his utility belt and grapple gun, while Robin offers acrobatics and hacking skills. Once unlocked, you can use them in the open world to access certain areas and challenges.
Step 2: Finish Chapter 1 – Alfred Pennyworth (One-Off)
After the prologue, the first chapter introduces a brief segment where you control Alfred. This is a one-off playable moment – he is not added to your permanent roster. You only need to complete this level to progress. No new permanent character here, but the story advances.
Step 3: Complete Chapter 2 – Batgirl
Chapter 2’s story mission unlocks Batgirl as the third permanent character. She brings her own unique skills, such as advanced stealth and the ability to override certain security systems. Use her in the open world to solve puzzles that require her specific abilities.
Step 4: Finish Chapter 3 – Nightwing
By completing the third chapter, you earn Nightwing. He is the fourth playable character and excels in combat and acrobatics. Nightwing’s special escrima sticks allow him to interact with certain electrical panels. This unlocks new open-world activities tied to his skill set.
Step 5: Clear Chapter 4 – Catwoman
Chapter 4 introduces Catwoman as a temporary playable character during the mission, but she becomes a permanent addition after the chapter concludes. She is the fifth character, with her signature whip and cat-like agility. Catwoman can climb special surfaces and unlock areas that require her stealth and thievery talents.
Step 6: Beat Chapter 5 – The Joker
The fifth story mission unlocks The Joker as the sixth playable character. Yes, you get to play as the Clown Prince of Crime. The Joker brings chaos with his laughing gas and trick weapons. His abilities are crucial for certain open-world challenges that villains can access. After unlocking him, you can switch between heroes and villains freely.
Step 7: Complete Chapter 6 – Harley Quinn
Harley Quinn is unlocked as the seventh and final permanent character after finishing chapter 6. She is the last addition to your roster. Harley uses a giant mallet and acrobatic moves, and her special skills include acrobatics and explosive expertise. With all seven characters, you can access every open-world activity and secret.
Tips for Efficient Unlocking
- Don’t rush the story: Characters unlock in a fixed order. Focus on completing each chapter fully to unlock the next character.
- Explore with each new character: As soon as you unlock a new hero or villain, revisit the open world to find collectibles and solve puzzles that were previously inaccessible.
- Remember Alfred is temporary: Don’t expect to use him afterward – his section is a storytelling device, not a permanent addition.
- No grinding required: Unlike some Lego games, this title doesn’t require extra purchases or free play grinding to unlock the main roster. All seven are story rewards.
- Check your character select screen: After each chapter, open the menu to confirm you’ve unlocked the new character. If you missed one, restart the last checkpoint of that chapter.
Now you’re ready to unleash the full power of Batman’s allies and enemies. With all seven characters in hand, the open world is your playground. Happy gaming!