Exploring the world of superheroes is made possible through video games that grant players complete control over their favorite spandex-clad crime fighters in expansive open worlds. These games empower players to step into the shoes of their beloved superheroes, experiencing the thrill of possessing extraordinary abilities, from flight and super strength to mystical powers and beyond.
From agile, web-slinging heroes to intimidating vigilantes, the following open-world games provide players with a compelling taste of wielding such incredible power.
10 Lego Marvel Super Heroes 2
Metacritic Rating: 73
LEGO Marvel Super Heroes 2 continues the delightful and whimsical escapades of renowned Marvel characters such as Spider-Man, the Avengers, and the Guardians of the Galaxy as they traverse various Marvel Universes across space and time to thwart Kang's plans of obliterating all realities.
The semi-open world of the game presents vast and vibrant universes with diverse puzzle sections for up to four players to explore and solve. For those seeking competitive thrills, a four-player Super Hero battle mode offers an exhilarating free-for-all brawl with friends.
9 Prototype
Metacritic Rating: 78
In Prototype, players assume the role of Alex Mercer, an amnesiac endowed with shapeshifting abilities, allowing him to create lethal constructs such as blades, claws, spikes, and tendrils to eliminate targets. Additionally, he can assimilate individuals to replenish his health and assume their identities to infiltrate bases before unleashing chaos and destruction.
The narrative revolves around Alex's quest to uncover his past while combating the outbreak of the Blacklight virus to prevent its spread among the populace. Amidst this, Alex must contend with two factions: the US Marine Corps and Blackwatch, both viewing Alex as a peril to be contained or eradicated.
8 Infamous: Second Son
Metacritic Rating: 80
The Infamous series introduced a unique mechanic in superhero games by incorporating a morality system that influences the main characters' powers and predisposition towards good or evil, based on players’ decisions. Infamous: Second Son puts players in charge of Delsin Rowe, a graffiti artist who also happens to be a Conduit possessing the ability to absorb the powers of fellow Conduits he comes into contact with.
Delsin confronts the Department of Unified Protection, which deems Conduits as bioterrorists. The game offers two distinct endings, dependent on whether Delsin's karma leans towards good or evil, allowing players to witness their version of Delsin evolving into a hero or a villain.