For years, DC Comics has often been known to carry a darker tone compared to its rival, Marvel. This perception largely stems from the gritty Dark Knight trilogy and the intense atmosphere of Zack Snyder’s cinematic universe. However, that reputation only tells part of the story; DC’s universe is also filled with vibrant characters and classic superheroes who champion ideals like truth, justice, and a brighter future. Yet, if you dive into NetherRealm’s Injustice series, you’ll notice it leans heavily into the shadowy aspects of this universe.
The storyline for Injustice is set in an alternate reality where Superman, after a tragic accident where he accidentally kills Lois Lane, decides to establish a regime of super-powered rulers, showcasing some incredibly dark themes. True to NetherRealm’s style, these games deliver plenty of shocking and unexpected deaths. Now, if NetherRealm were to turn its attention to crafting a Marvel fighting game, the result could potentially be just as intense, if not more so.
Marvel’s collection of villains is nothing short of chilling. Although Batman’s foes are some of the most notorious in comic history, with The Joker often cited as one of the darkest villains out there, Marvel’s baddies don’t lag far behind. Villains like Red Skull, a sinister protégé of Hitler who leads Hydra, and Baron Zemo, responsible for forming the Masters of Evil and killing Captain America’s son, showcase the depth of malevolence within Marvel. Characters like Ultron, who dreams of wiping out humanity, and Doctor Doom, who once ascended to godhood and devastated Reed Richards’ family, elevate the Marvel villain game stakes significantly. Even more recent figures like The Maker, an evil version of Reed Richards who once tried to create a universe devoid of superheroes, demonstrate just how deep the well of Marvel’s antagonists goes. NetherRealm would have a wealth of compelling villains to choose from to craft a gripping narrative.
Suppose a Marvel game from NetherRealm came to fruition. In that case, it might not only feature these formidable villains but also explore the darker sides of Marvel’s heroes—something that would definitely intrigue fans. With the MCU occasionally hinting at the edgier tactics employed by heroes, a compelling transformation could lie ahead. The Punisher, Wolverine, Daredevil, and even Spider-Man, especially when he’s not holding back, are known for leaving their foes battered. A Marvel fighting game could openly display these characters’ brutal sides, delving into a narrative as shadowy as the Injustice saga.
Although any game would still need to align with a T-Rating—since neither NetherRealm nor Marvel would likely allow it to exceed such constraints—it could still deliver a level of action and storyline depth that matches Injustice’s bold approach. Such a project would surely bring a fresh and engaging perspective to superhero video games, intriguing both Marvel enthusiasts and fighting game fans.
