Joe, I like Batman Returns on SegaCD. I think it is definitely one of the stronger titles (that's not saying much, but still).
Then again, I always liked the Bayou Billy gameplay formula (yes, I liked Bayou Billy, even though some beat-em-up segments were tedious). If only Batman Returns had a light gun stage or three! Then I'd be in heaven. No, I'm not joking. But Batman Returns... I like it.
I'd say this one is a good candidate for a future USA Virtual Console title.
I agree, although Hudson should release it before the other Batman games (i.e. NES, Genny) are available.
Unfortunately, I worry that Hudson won't want to pay for the licensing fees that are bound to be associated with this title.
Also, I too have avoided this game and have only recently been swayed by folks who posted rave reviews here on these boards. The funny thing is that first folks were praising the music in the game... and then the discussion broadened to the game itself.