Highlights
Marvel's Midnight Suns received positive reviews but underperformed in sales, which may discourage a sequel, but there is untapped potential in the concept for future content.
The DLC packs for Midnight Suns introduced fresh characters and story scenarios, however, they lacked a sense of connectivity to the main game, resulting in unanswered queries and unresolved plotlines.
While the inclusion of Dr. Doom in the conclusion of Midnight Suns hints at a significant antagonist role for a potential sequel, his absence in the DLC feels like a wasted chance. Furthermore, a sequel could incorporate additional Marvel heroes into the roster, thereby enhancing the game with fresh mechanics and greater depth.
Marvel's Midnight Suns was a sleeper hit in 2022, receiving rave reviews from players and critics. However, it fell short in terms of sales. Despite this setback, there is immense potential for a sequel, as the concept of the game still has a lot of unexplored content. The unfinished plot threads and the vast array of Marvel characters that could be incorporated make it clear that a Marvel's Midnight Suns 2 should definitely be considered.
Although Midnight Suns had four waves of DLC, it feels like there is still much more story to be told. These DLC packs introduced exciting new characters such as Deadpool, Venom, Morbius, and Storm, each accompanied by unique story scenarios. However, these missions lacked a strong connection to the main game, leaving many questions unanswered. Furthermore, a Midnight Suns 2 could introduce additional Marvel heroes, adding fresh mechanics to the gameplay experience.
Marvel's Midnight Suns Still Has So Much Potential Left
The main story of Midnight Suns leaves a significant plot thread unresolved regarding the presence of Dr. Doom, which is only briefly hinted at in the DLC. After defeating Lilith and neutralizing the threat of the Darkhold, Dr. Doom emerges and discovers the abandoned tome, dismissing its previous owners as amateurs. This scene introduces Dr. Doom as a potential new adversary for the Midnight Suns, but unfortunately, he does not play a substantial role in the DLC's storyline. This oversight feels like a missed opportunity considering Dr. Doom's status as one of Marvel's most popular villains.
In the DLC, there is a passing mention of Dr. Doom as Deadpool claims to be working for him in search of the Magna Corrigo for a Latverian doctor. However, beyond this brief reference, Dr. Doom does not feature prominently in the DLC. Instead, the story shifts its focus to the antagonists Sin and Dracula. By not giving Dr. Doom a proper appearance in the Midnight Suns DLC, it appears that Firaxis may have intended to save him for a potential sequel, which could be disappointing if a follow-up game never materializes.
Apart from concluding the story, there is ample opportunity to introduce even more Marvel heroes into the lineup for a potential sequel to Midnight Suns, even after including the four DLC characters. Adding Gambit from the X-Men to the roster would be a perfect fit for a sequel, as his kinetic card abilities could bring a unique twist to the game's card-based combat system. Additionally, Moon Knight would be an excellent choice due to his connection with the powers of the Egyptian god Khonshu, aligning well with the game's themes. Furthermore, Spider-Man hints at the possibility of joining the Midnight Suns, adding to the potential for an expanded roster.
It is unfortunate that Midnight Suns did not meet the sales expectations, considering the captivating plot and character development it offered to Marvel fans. The core gameplay of Midnight Suns provided a refreshing take on the strategy RPG genre, with plenty of room for improvement and innovation in a sequel, featuring new heroes with diverse abilities. While everything seems to align for a Midnight Suns 2 to enhance the strengths of its predecessor, the disappointing sales figures may prevent the realization of this vision.
Marvel's Midnight Suns is available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.