How fighting games reimagine action comics – and why they should be weirder

Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite

The epic clash between two storied universes returns with Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite. Ultron Sigma has begun the eradication of all biological life. Against all odds, heroes stand together against the ultimate threat, their only hope laying with the all-powerful Infinity Stones.

The marriage between action comics and fighting games is one that transcends mediums: an enthusiastic relationship based on love, mutual respect, and a shared passion for punching people in the face. Some licensed games, like Dragon Ball FighterZ, are played at a professional level in esport tournaments. Others, like My Hero: One’s Justice, are more simple and accessible. Some are team-based, while others are arena brawlers. All are generally good fun.

And yet, sometimes I think parser games would be better suited to adapt this genre to screen.
(more…)