The Marvel Cinematic Universe has recently faced some challenges, but the company's video game division is about to receive a wave of thrilling new content. Insomniac is preparing to release Marvel's Spider-Man 2 later this year, followed closely by Marvel's Wolverine, hoping to make a big impact. Marvel Snap continues to thrive as a mobile sensation, while EA Motive is working on an Iron Man game. However, Marvel is not done yet and has just announced a new Black Panther game.
Published by EA and developed by the brand new studio Cliffhanger Games, this newly revealed Black Panther game promises to provide a captivating single-player experience set in the hero's homeland of Wakanda. But Black Panther is not limited to just one game in development. Skydance is also actively working on a Marvel video game, which features Black Panther as one of the primary playable characters. These two games may be released in close proximity to each other, but there are certain aspects that can make each game stand out.
How EA's Black Panther Game Can Separate Itself From Skydance's Marvel Game
Skydance's Marvel game, which was first revealed at the D23 Expo last September, still remains a mystery. However, the debut trailer offers some hints regarding the game's storyline. Taking place during World War 2, the main enemy force appears to be Hydra. Players will have the opportunity to control four different characters throughout the game, including Captain America, Black Panther, Gabriel Jones of the Howling Commandos, and Nanali of the Wakandan Spy Network. Led by Amy Hennig, the creator of Uncharted, it is expected that this game will have a strong focus on storytelling and will be a single-player action-adventure experience.
On the other hand, EA and Cliffhanger Games' recently announced Black Panther game has even less information available. The initial press release stated that it will also be a single-player game, placing a significant emphasis on narrative. Despite these shared qualities between EA and Skydance's Black Panther games, there are already noticeable differences that set them apart.
The key distinctions between Skydance and EA's Marvel games are evident in their selection of playable characters. While EA's Black Panther game will focus solely on the titular hero, Skydance's game offers the option to switch between four characters throughout the gameplay. The two games also differ significantly in terms of setting. EA's Black Panther game will predominantly take place in Wakanda, potentially allowing players to explore an open-world sandbox environment. Conversely, Skydance's Marvel game will take players on a global journey, commencing in Wakanda before venturing into other parts of the world. Another notable contrast lies in the portrayal of Black Panther. Skydance's game features Azzuri, T'Challa's grandfather, as Black Panther, while the identity of the Black Panther in EA's game, most likely T'Challa or potentially Shuri, remains unconfirmed.
To distinguish themselves, these games only need to emphasize the elements that set them apart. Skydance should prioritize the multiple playable characters and the distinctive World War 2 backdrop in its Marvel game. On the other hand, EA and Cliffhanger games should concentrate on showcasing Black Panther's individual motivations and abilities, along with the expansive open-world setting of Wakanda. By accomplishing this, the two Black Panther games will have a distinct look and feel.
Currently, the development of Cliffhanger Games' Black Panther is underway.