Over the past few decades, DC has carved out a niche for itself as the darker of the two comic book titans. Much of this reputation is thanks to the gritty and realistic Dark Knight trilogy as well as the somber tone of the Snyderverse movies. However, it’s important to remember that DC’s universe includes a wide array of vibrant characters, and most of them are the classic type of superheroes, standing for truth, justice, and envisioning a brighter future. That side of DC doesn’t get much spotlight in the NetherRealm’s Injustice series, though.
In this alternate reality, Superman’s tragic mistake of accidentally killing Lois Lane sends him into a spiral, leading him to establish a regime where super-powered beings rule over humanity. The Injustice series dives into dark themes, and true to NetherRealm’s style, it includes a plethora of jaw-dropping fatalities. If NetherRealm ever shifted gears to create a Marvel fighting game, there’s no doubt it could carry an equally dark, if not even more intense, tone.
Marvel’s universe is riddled with its share of truly malevolent villains. Batman’s adversaries are often highlighted for their depravity, with The Joker standing as an emblem of pure chaos. But Marvel’s villains can rival even The Joker’s sinister antics. Characters like the Red Skull, once a protégée to Hitler and head of Hydra, or Baron Zemo, who formed the Masters of Evil and took Captain America’s son’s life, highlight the universe’s dark elements. Ultron’s quest to annihilate humanity and Doctor Doom’s ascent to godhood showcase the wide-ranging evil of Marvel’s villains. One of the newer yet vile faces in Marvel is The Maker, a version of Reed Richards from the Ultimate Universe, aiming to control a world where heroes don’t exist. Such characters could easily fuel the plot of a gripping, dark NetherRealm game.
Additionally, a Marvel game by NetherRealm could offer a glimpse at Marvel’s heroes indulging their darker instincts. Marvel movies have occasionally touched on the edgier side of heroism, but comics often delve deeper. Characters like The Punisher, Wolverine, and Daredevil, not to mention Spider-Man when he doesn’t hold back, are known for their intensely brutal combat styles. A game capturing this aspect would satisfy fans eager for a more mature depiction of their beloved heroes. Of course, even a NetherRealm Marvel game would need to adhere to certain boundaries, likely maintaining a T-Rating to align with Marvel’s standards. Still, the prospect of a game with the same dark narrative depth and action-packed sequences as seen in the Injustice series is tantalizing.
For fans of the Injustice series, the future holds even more promise. James Gunn’s recent comments hint at a possible revival for the franchise, sparking excitement among long-time players eager for another installment. The anticipation is building, and the potential for a fresh, gritty NetherRealm creation—whether from the DC or Marvel stable—is an enticing prospect for the gaming community.
