Many Marvel video games have been released throughout the years, but only a few have wowed fans and critics enough to achieve a high Metacritic rating. From the conventional beat 'em ups to fast-paced fighting games, Earth's mightiest heroes have repeatedly transitioned from comic books to gaming consoles and PCs. Marvel Comics has been creating memorable and famous characters for more than 80 years ago, and it will continue to deliver excellent material for all generations.
Continue for a look at some of the best video games that feature Marvel Comics characters.
Spider-Man: Shattered Dimensions (2010)
Shattered Dimensions is the game responsible for bringing the Spider-Man multiverse to life. Instead of playing as a single Spidey, you could web-sling as both the Amazing Spider-Man and Ultimate versions, as well as 2099 and Spider-Man Noir. This gives it both diverse tones and circumstances that previous Spider-Man games lacked. Additionally, this game inspired the Spider-Verse comic books, which were then transformed into the heavy-hitting blockbuster film Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.
Photography: Activision
Midnight Suns
Midnight Suns was a delightful surprise towards the end of 2022, and the card-based SRPG rapidly became a favorite that year because of its outstanding storytelling and enjoyable gameplay. This tactical, strategy-focused game has an extended plot and plenty of lore to keep Marvel fans glued to their screens for hours. Players can also explore different environments for hidden loot.
Photography: 2K Games
Spiderman 2 (2004)
Spidey's web-swinging became so common in the various Spider-Man games released by Activision over the 2000s that it's easy to forget this gem. Spider-Man 2 on PlayStation 2 was the first game to let players sling webs through a realistic portrayal of New York City. Subsequent renditions of the character would improve on practically every aspect of this component, but the original earned a special place in fans' hearts by finally nailing the experience of being Spider-Man.
Photography: Activision
Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3
Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 was the pinnacle of appealing 2D fighting games. This game was so popular that the depth and unique fighting mechanics became a favorite of high-level tournament competitors. Furthermore, it has one of the most impressive transitions from pixel art to 3D visuals. It features a diverse cast of characters assembled from each media universe, including new characters and classic favorites.
Photography: Capcom
LEGO Marvel Super Heroes
The LEGO franchise of games has allowed fans to explore their favorite fandoms in innovative settings. LEGO Marvel Super Heroes was a thrilling and action-packed adventure that successfully combined Marvel with LEGO comedy. It offers a massive Marvel universe for comic lovers and gamers to enjoy and repeat, and it is widely regarded as one of the finest LEGO video games ever to hit the shelf.
Photography: Warner Bros. Games
Marvel Ultimate Alliance (2006)
Years before the MCU began assembling action figures, Marvel Ultimate Alliance let you build your desired squad of heroes. Marvel Ultimate Alliance and its successor, MUA2, are famous for their unique, isometric gameplay, allowing players to construct a team and switch between favorites. They even featured some less well-known characters, such as Black Panther, long before he became a household figure. Creating teams with comic favorites like Spider-Man, Wolverine, Daredevil, and Captain America was the pinnacle of its creative gameplay.
Photography: Activision
Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy (2021)
Guardians of the Galaxy from Eidos-Montreal had its own world and an original tale inspired by comic books. This version of the Guardians had a fantastic plot with a lot of heart that follows the family of space rejects as they dealt with a monstrous cult creeping throughout the galaxy. The battle puts players in the shoes of the group's commander, Peter Quill, nicknamed Star-Lord, who leads the guardians. The excellent soundtrack aided the dynamic plot, and the challenging gameplay had players returning for more.
Photography: Square Enix
Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales (2020)
Insomniac's Spider-Man teased the introduction of fan-favorite, Miles Morales. This spin-off game gave Miles his journey and a slew of sleek, new costumes. Morales' Spider-Man had a full-fledged plot, where he had to learn the ropes of being a Spider-Man while Peter Parker was away. It also takes place in the winter, giving the whole game a lovely seasonal feel.
Photography: Sony Interactive Entertainment