Square Enix treated superhero fans to their first look at Marvel’s Avengers this past E3. Though Captain America, Iron Man, Thor, Hulk, Black Widow, and Ant-Man were revealed, a lot of other popular crusaders were absent. The following outlines all the superheroes that should join the game’s roster before it releases for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, and Google Stadia on May 15, 2020.
Marvel’s Avengers Roster Wishlist | Hawkeye
Given how most of the superheroes featured in the original Avengers film have a presence in Marvel’s Avengers, it makes sense for Hawkeye to appear at some point. Marvel Games Creator Director Bill Rosemann did indicate on Twitter that fans of the arrow-wielding hero need not to worry, but an official announcement has yet to be made.
When it comes to gameplay, Clint Barton can play the role of a ranged hero, shooting enemies from afar while melee characters like Hulk and Black Widow take care of foes up close. Just like in Endgame, Ant-Man players can latch onto one of Hawkeye’s arrows in order to travel to hard-to-reach places. Crystal Dynamics and Eidos Montreal can throw in different arrow types to mix up the damage players can inflict or allow users to switch to Barton’s alter ego, Ronin, for sword-slinging combat.
Marvel’s Avengers Roster Wishlist | Spider-Man
When asked whether or not last year’s Spider-Man is connected to Marvel’s Avengers, Rosemann stated “the roof would fall” if he answered that question. Because this isn’t an outright denial, there’s a possibility that Insomniac’s version of the web-head will appear in Square Enix’s title next year.
With the 2018 title still fresh in the minds of superhero fans, it’s plain to see the gameplay variety that Peter Parker will be able to bring to the table. Spidey could tie up a group of goons with his web right before they get a chance to escape Hulk’s fearsome smash. Thanks to his agility, the hero can be used to provide quick reconnaissance for multiplayer teams before they dive into battle. If these mechanics were enough to warrant Spider-Man his own game, they’re enough to earn him an appearance in Marvel’s Avengers.
Marvel’s Avengers Roster Wishlist | Wolverine
Judging from the backlash Capcom received after it confirmed the X-Men won’t be appearing in Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite, Square Enix would be wise to include the comic book franchise’s most popular mascot, Wolverine, in Marvel’s Avengers. Logan’s claws could translate to a fast hack and slash gameplay style reminiscent of Ninja Gaiden or Devil May Cry. While players may be more exposed to damage, Wolverine’s healing ability could save them whenever they’re in a bind.
Wolverine could pave the way for more mutants to join the game in the future, especially as Disney inevitably begins developing X-Men films for the Marvel Cinematic Universe, whenever that may be.
Marvel’s Avengers Roster Wishlist | The Fantastic Four
The Fantastic Four have failed to find a lot of success outside of comic books. The group’s last live-action film was received poorly by critics and both of its video game tie-ins, based off the 2005 movie and its sequel, are forgettable. Marvel’s Avengers could give the superhero quartet to chance a shine, serving as a diversion from whatever action may be taking place among the core Avengers team. The Fantastic Four’s ties to some of comic book’s most popular villains, including Doctor Doom, Silver Surfer, and Galactus, could help evolve the game’s plot and force all of Earth’s heroes together for an exciting final battle.
The group could present plenty of gameplay variety too, as few other superheroes can move as fluidly as Mister Fantastic or emit force fields like Invisible Woman. This being said, players need to witness the Thing and Hulk team up to demolish environments together.
Marvel’s Avengers Roster Wishlist | Doctor Strange
After his standalone film and appearance in Infinity War and Endgame, few would argue that Doctor Strange isn’t cool. In Marvel’s Avengers, the Sorcerer Supreme could serve a support role, healing fellow superheroes when their health runs lows or casting status effects on enemies. Of course, Strange could also use magical abilities to teleport foes to different dimensions or manifest weapons out of thin air.
The Time Stone could be factored in too, temporarily freezing goons in place or rewinding them back a few steps. This Master of Mystic Arts has potential to be a fan favorite should Crystal Dynamics and Eidos Montreal faithfully translate his powers into gameplay.
Marvel’s Avengers Roster Wishlist | Black Panther
Black Panther’s inclusion in Marvel’s Avengers is a no-brainer considering how popular he is in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The character could serve as a great stand-in for Captain America after his death, toppling foes up close with hand-to-hand combat. Like the film, T’Challa can meld some of Shuri’s technology with his vibranium suit so he can absorb energy beams and unleash back them back onto opponents. While Black Panther has yet to be announced for Marvel’s Avengers, the King of Wakanda will most likely be introduced sometime before the inevitable release of the second Black Panther film.
Developers Crystal Dynamics and Eidos Montreal have stated that many heroes and locations will be added into Marvel’s Avengers after launch. These could play directly into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, major comic book releases, or other video games going forward. The title has potential to appeal to a wide audience so long as its gameplay and multiplayer features learn from the mistakes of recent live service games. To satisfy superhero fans, Marvel’s Avengers need to be more than another Anthem.
Hopefully, the game will manage to assemble everything we love about Marvel in one fun, convenient package.
