Marvel's Midnight Suns is a new tactical RPG pitting superheroes against demons in a darker version of Marvel's world. Developed by Firaxis Games (the team behind XCOM and Civilization), Marvel fans can expect to participate in turn-based, tactical combat. Midnight Suns introduces a new character known as the Hunter, who appears to be the game's protagonist. Hunter will be teaming up with Marvel's superheroes to protect Earth from demonic forces, though exactly what form the gameplay will take is still something of a mystery.
Marvel has recently expanded its reach into the gaming realm with titles like Marvel's Avengers and Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy. Its recent showcase at Gamescom revealed Marvel's Midnight Suns, and the reveal trailer gave fans a glimpse at the story and characters who will be joining players on their newest adventure. Characters like Wolverine, Captain Marvel, Ghost Rider, Dr. Strange, and more will join the battle to defeat Lillith, the mother of demons. More details about the story and gameplay have yet to be revealed, though Midnight Suns plans to release its gameplay trailer on September 1. Despite the limited information revealed in the initial trailer, Firaxis offered a relatively clear picture of what kind of game Marvel's Midnight Suns will be.
Equipped with unique abilities between a roster of superpowered characters, Hunter and her team will traverse different levels of enemies to save the world. The reveal trailer showcased some details about how Midnight Suns' team will support one another in combat. Iron Man and Captain America can be seen combining their skills to unleash a devastating attack on their opponent, meaning synergy between team compositions will likely play a significant role in battle.
Marvel's Midnight Suns Brings A Superhero Twist To Tactical RPGs
Though Marvel's Midnight Suns will feature turn-based combat similar to XCOM, Firaxis didn't reveal too many details in its interview with IGN, though seemed to indicate it wouldn't be exactly like the XCOM games. XCOM is a sci-fi tactics game that has sparked one of the most successful franchises of its genre. Despite its success, Marvel's many settings, characters, and stories could pose competition to the franchise. Midnight Suns' trailer showed off several potential levels already, including a desert biome and urban environment.
Outside of combat, players will be able to explore an area where they will be able to interact with heroes. Marvel's Midnight Suns won't allow players to romance their superhero teammates, though they will be able to develop friendships with them. It is currently unknown what else this area will offer. The design of this free-roam area is slightly reminiscent of Fire Emblem: Three Houses' monastery mechanic, meaning Midnight Suns could offer more RPG content beyond its combat levels and cutscenes.
Marvel has braved the tactical RPG genre before with its mobile Marvel Strike Force game, but Midnight Suns could improve this gameplay formula. Many details about Marvel's Midnight Suns have yet to be revealed, though more news is sure to come with its upcoming March 2022 release date. Initial impressions of the game have piqued interest, and Firaxis Games' reputation with XCOM and Civilization give fans reason to be optimistic. With luck, Marvel's Midnight Suns will be another Firaxis success in its long legacy of turn-based titles.
Marvel's Midnight Suns is coming to PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC sometime in March 2022.
Source: IGN