Over the years, Marvel has dabbled in a vast array of genres and gameplay styles, offering everything from immersive open-world adventures to strategic turn-based games with a mystical edge. They’ve also ventured into the realm of co-op live services and even explored the realms of virtual reality. This diverse offering caters to an equally diverse audience.
Reflecting on Marvel’s video game catalog from the past decade or so, you’ll likely notice a pattern. Most titles are third-person action games rated for a Teen audience or younger. While these games can explore deeper themes and deliver dramatic moments, they generally maintain an upbeat tone, aligning with the essence of Marvel’s brand. However, there seems to be an untapped potential – exploring darker, more mature themes. Imagine Marvel delving into the horror genre; that could be a refreshing change, perhaps even as soon as next year.
One intriguing possibility lies with the Marvel Zombies concept, which might pave the way for a gaming experience entirely new to Marvel’s portfolio.
Back in November 2005, the “Crossover” arc in the Ultimate Fantastic Four introduced readers to a parallel universe. Here, Reed Richards finds himself in a world teeming with zombified versions of Marvel’s iconic heroes and villains. This universe set the stage for the Marvel Zombies storyline that debuted a month later.
Originally, Marvel Zombies was a limited series that ran from December 2005 to April 2007. Crafted by the talented Robert Kirkman, known for The Walking Dead, and artistically brought to life by Sean Phillips, the series threw readers into the alternate Earth-2149. Here, a virus transformed Earth’s Mightiest Heroes and villains into ravenous zombies. The twist? These zombies retained their intelligence and powers. The series delved into the chilling depths of what beloved characters might do to quell their insatiable hunger.
The Marvel Zombies theme became so popular that it spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs, growing into a full-fledged series. The latest addition, Marvel Zombies: Dawn of Decay, began in September and will conclude this December.
Marvel’s incursion into the world of zombies isn’t confined to comics. In 2021, Marvel launched the What If…? animated series on Disney+, and one episode, What If…Zombies?, drew directly from the Marvel Zombies comics. This storyline took a twist, with the zombies originating from an infection via the Quantum Realm. The episode follows survivors, including the Wasp and Spider-Man, in their quest for a cure. Building on this, a continuation titled Marvel Zombies is set to debut in October 2025 with a four-episode arc.
The potential for a Marvel Zombies video game is tantalizing. The upcoming Disney+ series offers Marvel a unique opportunity to push the envelope and venture into more mature game development. Envision a Left 4 Dead-inspired experience where players can join forces in co-op modes, navigating iconic Marvel settings while battling hordes of the undead.
Imagine squaring off against zombified versions of beloved Marvel characters at the end of a level. This game could let players face heroes they wouldn’t usually fight, like Spider-Man or Captain America. With Marvel Zombies, the potential for a touch more intensity and horror is compelling, inviting players to explore a side of Marvel that is rarely seen in gaming.
Marvel, a powerhouse in superhero comics, film, TV, and merchandise, continues to own the hearts of fans worldwide. With characters like The Avengers, Black Panther, and Deadpool under its belt, the company is well-positioned to captivate audiences with innovative storytelling and fresh gaming experiences.
