Revolutionary Upgrade: Wolverine's Bone Claws Get a New Twist

Little is currently known about Marvel's upcoming Wolverine game, and it may be some time before more information is revealed as Marvel's Spider-Man 2 takes the spotlight. While Insomniac is known for their charming science-fiction adventures in the Ratchet and Clank franchise, they seem to be transitioning to a darker tone for the Wolverine game, likely due to the brutal violence that will be featured. Although the teaser trailer didn't show Wolverine's face, it did reveal that he will have adamantium claws, which will have a significant impact on combat mechanics. While some fans may have been intrigued by the possibility of a distinct combat mechanic with bare bone claws, it seems that the game will be focusing on the use of indestructible metal.

Marvel’s Wolverine Could Have Had Degradable Bone Claw Durability

To avoid players mindlessly killing human enemies in Marvel's Wolverine, Insomniac may opt to hurl robot enemies at them instead. However, with Wolverine's adamantium-laced claws, combat could never be truly subdued, as they would inevitably cause impalement or lop off limbs. Removing the adamantium coating could offer more combat diversity, such as the possibility of Wolverine's long bone claws breaking with each subsequent attack, similar to The Last of Us' approach to melee weapons and their predetermined durability.

The durability of Wolverine's bone claws could have been a strategic element in combat, as players would have to decide whether to use them unsheathed for greater damage or keep them sheathed to avoid breakage. This would require players to weigh the risk and reward of each approach, as engaging in close-quarters combat with Wolverine's fists could offer less damage but greater durability. Additionally, because the bone claws are not protected by adamantium, they would require time to regenerate and regain full strength after being broken, forcing players to rely on bare-knuckle brawling until they fully rematerialize. To conserve their effectiveness in combat, players could choose to sheathe their claws before they break completely.

However, Insomniac's decision to use adamantium-coated claws for Wolverine is a double-edged sword. While it does stay true to the character's signature feature, the effectiveness of the claws will ultimately depend on how they are utilized in combat. If the game fails to deliver on the promise of brutal, visceral combat that showcases the full power of Wolverine's claws, then the balance between sheathed and unsheathed attacks may have been better served with bone claws. This would not only add an extra layer of micromanagement to combat, but also reduce the frequency of graphic violence against human enemies. Marvel's Wolverine is currently in development for PS5.