Why EA's Iron Man Game Should Explore a Fresh Setting Inspired by the 'Superior' Storyline

Discover how the controversial Superior Iron Man run can influence EA's exciting new Iron Man game.
Why EA's Iron Man Game Should Explore a Fresh Setting Inspired by the 'Superior' Storyline

Highlights

  • Iron Man's Superior Iron Man storyline is known for its morally complex narrative and evil protagonist.
  • EA's Iron Man game could benefit from setting the game in San Francisco, drawing inspiration from the Superior comic run.
  • With New York already mastered by Insomniac's Spider-Man, EA's Iron Man game should seek a different, engaging setting like San Francisco.

Marvel has seen its fair share of eyebrow-raising comic series over the years, with some leaving a lasting impact due to their bold storytelling. While Spider-Man has been at the center of some of Marvel's most infamous controversies, Iron Man has also navigated through some rough patches.

Not as widely debated as his 'Demon in a Bottle' arc, the 'Superior Iron Man' storyline stands out as one of Iron Man's most polarizing tales in recent history. Following a moral corruption triggered by Scarlet Witch during the 'Axis' arc, Iron Man adopts an evil persona driven by greed and power. This shift led to Tony Stark committing morally questionable acts, such as temporarily restoring Daredevil's sight as a reminder of his capabilities. While EA Motive's upcoming Iron Man game may steer clear of this dark narrative, incorporating a subtle element from it could be beneficial.

EA's Iron Man Game Should Draw Inspiration from Superior Iron Man's Setting

Insomniac's Spider-Man Has Nailed New York

Having Iron Man as the game's protagonist offers EA Motive the freedom to choose any setting, considering Iron Man's vast resources to establish multiple operational hubs. However, with New York being closely associated with Tony Stark due to Stark Industries and Avengers Tower, EA's Iron Man game might want to avoid this iconic backdrop, especially since Insomniac's Spider-Man series has already depicted New York City in three impressive iterations.

From intricately mapping out New York's layout and boroughs to seamlessly integrating iconic landmarks and Marvel-themed structures, 'Marvel's Spider-Man 2' arguably presents the best video game portrayal of the city. Therefore, recreating New York in EA's Iron Man game might feel redundant, particularly if the two Marvel projects remain unrelated in the grand scheme.

Superior Iron Man's San Francisco Setting Could Elevate EA's Iron Man Game

Set against the darker side of Silicon Valley, 'Superior Iron Man' unfolds primarily in San Francisco, where the once-heroic figure exploits the city for personal gain. While EA's Iron Man game doesn't need to replicate this narrative, adopting the San Francisco setting from 'Superior Iron Man' could be a game-changer. Apart from 'Marvel's Avengers' opening mission, San Francisco has yet to be fully explored in an open-world Marvel game, presenting a thrilling opportunity for EA's Iron Man.

As a bustling urban hub, San Francisco offers a blend of visual appeal akin to New York City but with unique characteristics that differentiate it. While not as densely populated with Marvel heroes as New York, San Francisco provides ample space for Iron Man to incorporate Marvel universe references within its buildings and skyscrapers, similar to how Spider-Man does in his adventures.