Cataclysm

Cataclysm was a short but important Story Arc/Event that occurred midway through Round 4. The affects of the event had immediate and lasting repercussions which would plague the rest of the round.

Leading up to the Cataclysm
Cataclysm was a completely unexpected event, and the only slight references to its occurrence were statements from Dr. Kirk Langstrom, which only fell on deaf ears. To the vast majority of Gotham, It came completely out of the blue. The first sign of trouble was the sudden appearance of the Joker, who had been missing since the end of round 3.

At 23 minutes to 11:00, on November 11, the Joker attacked Gotham Radio Tower, to deliver his message to Gotham. On live camera, the Joker announced his plan; the destruction of Gotham through the use of multiple bombs planted strategically throughout the city on fault zones; which when detonated would cause a massive earthquake at the center of the city.

The Joker's real intention was to gain the attention of Batman, who unbeknownst to him was at this point thought dead. When Batman failed to arrive, the Joker disappointedly decided to blow up the city anyways, and with a chilling laugh he set the timer and left; leaving Gotham to be destroyed.

Effects of the Cataclysm
The bombs went off at exactly 11:00, on November 11. They ripped through buildings, and destroyed structures. Player bases were removed; though they still kept that territory, which returned to a standard territory. Defender's bases were all also destroyed.

All bridges were destroyed, as well as all train stations, some sewers, Archie Goodwin Airport, and most docks.

However, this did not mean movement was completely restricted. Emergency airports opened, more sewers were discovered and smuggler docks were opened.

The effect of the bombs meant that Gotham reverted back to primitive life. Gotham's future was in tatters; with hero fighting hero, and villain fighting villain. The Joker had won, and had escaped without a trace. And with the disappearance of Batman, it looked like it would never recover again.