Since the inception of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, superheroes have taken over pop culture. Movie theaters have been flooded with gripping adventures, streaming platforms are brimming with superhero content, and the world of video games is not far behind. Despite a potential slowing of their popularity, these brands continue to expand their reach across various mediums, and one of their prime targets is the video game industry.
Currently, there are several superhero games in development. Marvel is working on titles such as Marvel's Blade, Marvel's Wolverine, and Marvel's Iron Man, while DC has Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League and Wonder Woman in the pipeline. Both studios have previously released successful titles and are expected to continue this trend. However, their strategies for entering the industry are markedly different.
Marvel and DC's Divergent Paths in Gaming
DC's Safe Play in the Gaming Realm
For years, DC has predominantly played it safe in the video game sphere. Since the release of the critically acclaimed Batman: Arkham Asylum, the studio has primarily focused on delivering Batman-centric experiences. While there have been exceptions like The Wolf Among Us, the majority of DC's games have revolved around Batman or included him in some capacity.
Not only has DC centered its games around Gotham City, but they have also largely been developed by the same set of studios. Most titles have hailed from a Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment subsidiary, with studios like Rocksteady and WB Games Montreal taking the lead. Additionally, the majority of these games have followed the action-adventure genre, with only a few straying from this formula. Although this approach has yielded great games over the years, some fans are seeking more variety. The upcoming The Wolf Among Us 2 and Wonder Woman may provide just that.
Marvel's Embrace of Radical Experimentation
While DC has opted for a cautious approach in the gaming industry, Marvel appears to be experimenting with an array of games to see what resonates. While the company continues to create Spider-Man-centric titles, it has also showcased a diverse range of heroes. The Avengers, the Guardians of the Galaxy, and even the Midnight Suns have all taken center stage. These games have varied significantly in quality, but the opportunity to explore different heroes has delighted fans.
One of the most significant differences in Marvel's gaming approach is its willingness to collaborate with diverse developers for its multitude of characters. Unlike DC, Marvel allows numerous developers to explore its universe. Studios such as Firaxis Games, Insomniac Games, Crystal Dynamics, and Eidos-Montreal have all had the opportunity to delve into the Marvel universe. In the future, Skydance, Motive, and Arkane Lyon will also join this endeavor.
Marvel's approach may result in varying quality levels, but it also ensures a broad catalog of titles. Its games feature different characters and span various genres. While Warner Bros. Interactive has produced outstanding games within the DC brand, they appear to have more limitations. The same level of experimentation seen in Marvel's approach seems absent for DC. Nevertheless, there is always the possibility of change in the future.