DC Games Takes a Leap Forward by Embracing One Marvel Game's Winning Formula

Highlights

DC should explore new genres, like tactical RPGs, to add a refreshing and surprising twist to its gaming collection. Introducing the Justice League, Teen Titans, or other DC characters in a tactical RPG would offer players the chance to immerse themselves in the company of multiple characters and engage in a strategic mental challenge that appeals to certain gamers.

In order to survive and maintain a strong position in the gaming industry, DC must embrace diversity instead of sticking to the traditional third-person action/adventure format that dominates superhero games. Achieving consistent success in the gaming world is challenging, even for the largest creative companies. While the Marvel Cinematic Universe continues to thrive and the DCU under James Gunn's direction is gaining momentum, both comic giants have struggled to find the same level of success in gaming. For many years, film tie-ins were the usual approach for Marvel and DC, but recently, superheroes are finally being given a fair opportunity.

Tactics RPGs can Help DC Take the Fight to Marvel

: Expanding DC's range of games is crucial to its success. While there have been setbacks like the delay of the Suicide Squad game and underwhelming performance of Gotham Knights, there is hope for improvement. Wonder Woman has the potential to steer things in a positive direction, but there are additional avenues for DC to explore. Diversifying into different genres could be a bold and effective strategy, with one particular format standing out: a DC game inspired by Marvel's Midnight Suns.

The tactical RPG genre, once obscure, has seen a resurgence in recent years with titles like Fire Emblem: Three Houses, XCOM: Enemy Unknown, and Triangle Strategy. These games offer players the opportunity to immerse themselves in a diverse cast of characters and provide a strategic experience, appealing to gamers who prefer a mental challenge over action-based gameplay. Marvel's Midnight Suns follows this successful formula, utilizing the same philosophy to create a unique gaming experience. Although it may not have the same level of recognition as Insomniac's Spider-Man, it has garnered a dedicated following of players who have truly embraced its captivating offerings.

Using the cast of Young Justice for a tactical RPG would bring multiple characters to the forefront and offer players an alternative to the usual AAA releases they are accustomed to. While Marvel has already recognized the advantages of this approach, DC is still striving to find success in the most popular genres, as evidenced by the delayed release of Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League. Incorporating elements of the DC universe into a tactical RPG would provide a refreshing and unexpected change of pace.

DC Needs Variety to Survive

Superhero-centric games like Spider-Man, Batman: Arkham, and Guardians of the Galaxy have established a following with their third-person action/adventure format. However, considering the vast array of characters that DC has, it would be a shame not to showcase them in a fresh way in the gaming world. Marvel's Midnight Suns takes a different approach by introducing a turn-based, tactical gameplay loop that brings together many beloved personalities in one title. This not only caters to a different audience but also demonstrates the versatility of Marvel in the gaming industry. Similarly, Marvel Snap explores an entirely new genre and achieves success as if it were inevitable.

DC's current approach to gaming, with titles like Batman: Arkham, Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, and Monolith's Wonder Woman, exclusively adopting the third-person perspective, may limit their creativity in the gaming industry. To sustain their ongoing success, DC should consider introducing fresh ideas. Given the abundance of captivating storylines in their comics and the camaraderie between their characters, a tactical RPG could hold immense potential.