It seems like there are superhero games from both Marvel and DC everywhere these days. Thanks tothe popularity of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, fans of the genre have been treated to a wide variety of games, and there’s no indication that they’ll be slowing down anytime soon. In 2022, Marvel fans may have been treated to one of the most unique yet in the form ofMarvel’s Midnight Suns.And while the game may not have made the impact the studio wanted it to, the concepts should not be left to gather dust.
Unlike most other Marvel games,Marvel’s Midnight Sunsputs more of a focus on the supernatural side of the Marvel universe. If that was not enough, the gameplay blended turn-based combat, deckbuilding, and RPG mechanics for something completely unique. The result was a fantastic experience, the likes of which Marvel games really have not seen before. As of now, it does not seem like the idea will be reprised, but hopefully, some studio is willing to take a stab at the concept at some point down the line, even if it is wholly disconnected from Firaxis' own foray into this universe.
Marvel’s Midnight Suns is Too Unique to Let Die
Marvel’s Midnight Suns' Gameplay Was A Fantastic Ride
Whenplayers first jumped intoMarvel’s Midnight Suns, they had a lot of new idea to familiarize themselves with. Firstly, the game’s main combat system put a new unique spin on the superhero concept. Instead of being just another turn-based or action-adventure experience, this game actually had players build decks of cards filled with powerful abilities. Each hero had their own unique deck, with players unlocking and upgrading new ones as they progressed through the game. While that may sound like a slow, methodical concept, especially when it is mixed with classic turn-based combat, it actually made for a fast-paced and exciting system overall.
Along with that, Firaxis alsofilledMarvel’s Midnight Sunswith RPG and base-building-like features. In-between each mission, players would be able to wander their upgradable base and interact with all of the heroes they have recruited. They could level-up their relationship with them, train them, attend various events with them, complete all sorts of side activities, and so much more. If that was not enough, the Abbey was filled with things to discover and new utilities to unlock, which gave players so much content to delve into.
Future Marvel Games Could Take the Midnight Suns' Concept Even Further
WhileMarvel’s Midnight Suns’blend of genresmay have made for something special, the game ended up being a commercial failure and has not received any new content outside the promised post-launch DLC. However, there is still so much more that could be done with its framework if it was given the chance, so hopefully, Firaxis or another studio is willing to give it that chance.
Firaxis definitely had plans for a follow-up or further adventures, as seen withMarvel’s Midnight Suns' post-credit scene hinting atthe arrival of Doctor Doom. So, it would be fantastic if the studio were able to actually deliver on that story, even if it came in a much smaller package. If it is unable to, then another studio should at least take the concept for a spin. This experience was great, and with the right team, there is no telling how it could evolve.
Of course, there is no shortage of superhero games on the horizon either, and becauseMarvel’s Midnight Sunswas a commercial failure, it is unlikely that Firaxis will ever touch the concept again – at least not in the near future. That being said, someone still really should. Even if it does not happen for a few years, a turn-based deckbuilding RPG with superheroes is just too good to be forgotten.
