COMIC BOOK VIDEO GAMES: WHERE ART THOU?

I will admit that I don't know what goes into the whole decision process in regards as to what gets made into a video game. I am sure that there is a lot that I am completely unaware of, but like many, I can have ideas of what I would want to see come to fruition. I am mainly a comic book and wrestling nerd, and since WWE has the wrestling under control with their 2K series, I'll focus on the comic book stuff I would like to see in video game form.
Batman is tops for me, and the Batman: Arkham series was definitely something myself and others yearned for. A great comic book video game in basically all aspects. After four installments we are left wondering if there will be another Batman game, or even better, other comic book games. From the Marvel side of things, Spider-Man was doing well until Amazing Spider-Man 2 (which lacked substance for me). We know that there is another Spider-Man game in the works, but what about other Marvel characters? I thought the success of Batman and Spidey would translate into other superheroes getting at least a shot. Now, I am not talking about the various movie adaptations, I mean completely unique story like they did in the Batman: Arkham universe. We are still in the middle of a comic book movie boom, so they can still use the success of that to promote interest in the games, which again would not be movie adaptations. Skins only via DLC haha

Here are who I would like to see on the shelves one day, next to both the new and old Batman and Spider-Man video games...

Justice League

Again, not a movie adaptation, but a unique universe. If anything, they can connect it with the Batman: Arkham video game universe. This allows for more heroes and villains to make their way into the game. Both as regular game play selections and via DLC. I would somehow break the heroes down into categories, perhaps something like Human, Meta Human, Alien type of thing. This way they can say swap playing as Batman with Green Arrow, or Superman for Supergirl, etc. In summary, I basically want variety with the same style of story and game play as Batman: Arkham games.

X-Men

It would be done like it would with "Justice League". Especially the non-movie adap situation. There are enough characters within the X-Men to be separate from a Marvel Universe gathering. Can again break them into categories, as to swap people around.  The title may be X-Men, but of course X-Factor, X-Force, etc will be in there. The DLC's would be high in the costume departments of course. There would even be a bone claw version of Wolverine, even though they would never seem to break or if they did healed super quick.

Marvel Universe

I would just call it "The Avengers", but this would include basically all of the Marvel Universe. Perhaps break them down into teams as well as categories. The Avengers, X-Men, Fantastic 4, etc. The story could either cover the massive crossover stories from the comic books with their own spin on them. The Infinity Gauntlet, Civil War, etc. Since it isn't a fighting game I would perhaps avoid "Secret Wars", although that would make for a good combat game perhaps.

Spawn

Sure, he is neither DC Comics nor Marvel Comics, but I think this one has potential to be an amazing game. Visually alone would be quite the sight to see, although I am sure a suitable story would be there via creator Todd Mcfarlane.

Superman

Sure, I mentioned the Justice League in the beginning but I think Supes needs to be mastered via consoles and pc worldwide. I thought for sure that there would be a game based on the Kryptonian after the success of Batman with the Arkham series. Even with Superman leading the way in the DC Comics movieverse with "Man Of Steel" and "Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice", nothing. Is it another case of the original superhero being "too perfect"? It is hard to have him appear weak on a steady basis, but adding citizens in peril and side missions could help make things challenging.

There are others that I would like to see, such as something lightly based on DC Comics television universe via The CW. But, baby steps. In all honesty, I would settle for another Batman game. It wouldn't have to be a part of the Arkham series, but  matches or surpasses it in caliber.

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ROCKSTEADY, AND THE GODDAMN BATMAN

While Rocksteady continues to develop and release more and more DLC (downloadable content) for "Batman: Arkham Knight", it is hard not to wonder what will be the next game. Or more aptly, will the be another installment in the "Batman: Arkham" franchise. Warning for those who have yet to play "Batman: Arkham Knight" as there is some possible spoilers coming up.

With the success of the franchise, why would one wonder if there will be future installments? Honestly, the only reasons have to do with how Arkham Knight concluded story wise and how poorly "Batman: Arkham Origins" was done (although by a different studio). Is that still Bruce Wayne as Batman at the end of Arkham Knight? Or was it someone else stepping into the mantle? Regardless, does this mean that the story (and game) will continue on, or was it just a way to end things while showing that "Batman" lives on regardless of who is under the cowl? All good things usually come to an end, but we're only four games deep. Look at Final Fantasy and other game franchises. There is room for more Batman. It wouldn't be unheard of to perhaps "forget" and forge a new origin installment.
Better yet, there are the other options that come to mind. First, with the brief moments in story mode, as well as via the DLC, it would be nice to see characters like Catwoman, Nightwing, etc play an even bigger part of things. Not a fan of being "forced" to play as other characters, but the option would be nice. Something similar yet bigger than what Catwoman did in "Batman: Arkham City", where we were at least able to use her openly "after" the game ended. Of course there would be an abundant on DLC with just the character skins alone, but imagine being able to play as your favorite version of Batgirl or Robin. The second option is along the same line, except with Villains playing a bigger part. Surem we've got a taste of what it is like to play as The Joker and others, but it would be nice for them to be at par with Batman in the main game.
Will we instead see a new franchise emerge from the ashes of "Batman: Arkham"? A brand new story, and new direction. With The Joker dead, roasted, and gone it would make sense. Not saying Mr. J needs to be at the forefront, but in the mix simply to simply bring in his fans.

There is also the chance that Rocksteady would begin to create other comic book character game franchises. They "saved" Batman in the video game world, perhaps it is time to save Superman. Or perhaps bring other characters to the world of gaming. Wonder Woman comes to mind, but also with the success of television shows like "Arrow" and "The Flash" hard to not want to see them get a shot too. Guess we'll have to wait and see....as with the movies and were doing with the new seasons to television shows.

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WHAT IF...WE ALSO HAD MARVEL COMICS UNIVERSE ONLINE?

Immediately there will be those who disagree, and feel that the Big 2 comic companies stop imitating each other. Understandable. However, they are going to generally do it anyway, and let's face it, there are moments where imitation lead to something bigger, and better things. An example of this would be Deadpool. The Merc With A Mouth is a massive success, and although has become his own character, Wade Wilson is a rip-off of DC Comics Deathstroke aka Slade Wilson.

So, why doesn't Marvel try their hand at online gaming in a style similar to DC Universe Online? Similar. It wouldn't have to be a direct rip-off, as they could even listen to the audience (which contain both DC and Marvel fans) and improve off of it. Everyone would have their own list of ideas, for both game play and stories. Even having the "real" heroes and villains be more involved than they do in DCUO, where they are involved but not on a level that matters really.
Perhaps take from Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic, and have the paths that gamers choose be decision based through out the game. Or at the very least an option to turn and continue on with the character you already have instead of having to build a new character.
Story wise break the initial options down to "Mutant", "Alien", "Experimental", and "Human". Experimental would cover characters like Captain America, but also "accidentals" like Spider-Man and Daredevil.
Visually it would be nice to have costumes, powers, etc be more Marvel based, with some things similar to that of the DC characters. Which seems to be needed based on the number of Marvel characters that are running around the worlds of DC Universe Online.

Of course this may or may never happen. One can dream and hope. There must be others out there who also want this. Even as a mainly DC Comics fan, find myself wanting this to happen.

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THE ICEMAN COMETH!

We got our first look at the upcoming story based DLC for the video game "Batman: Arkham Origins" today via DC All Access. And as everyone predicted, the story is focused on the frosty member of Batman's rogues gallery, Mr. Freeze.

You can check out the video below, which has the "trailer" as well as a brief discussion on what else we can expect to find in the "Cold, Cold Heart" story based DLC, which is luckily in game, and not just another challenge map like the initial DLC's were. We learn that there will be a new suit for Batman helping him to battle the cryogenic weapons of Freeze and his comrades. As well as some new gadgets.

I am sure there will be on this before it is ready for download on April 22nd, 2014, but until then or until more is revealed, here is the first glance at "Cold, Cold Heart" DLC content coming for "Batman: Arkham Origins":

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WHERE'S MY GAME?

With the "Batman: Arkham" series being so successful, it is a wonder why there hasn't been more superhero games, especially DC Comics characters being given their own game. Of course, there is the argument of not wanting to milk off of Batman, but they do it all the time anyways, why not in this aspect also? Who knows, it could actually lead to a boost in popularity for some of them, or in some case expand off their current fame.

Whether it be an expansion of the Arkham universe, or a totally separate world that is all theirs. I should add I am talking more "rpg" than "fighting" games, with Injustice and others having brought us some heroes and villains from the comic book world. Here is a list of DC Comics characters who should get a solo shot at computer and console fame...

Superman

Not asking for a "Man Of Steel (2013)" version, as in some cases those games can suck, and are limited. But, the world of "Batman: Arkham" or something similar would be great. For the landscapes of course Metropolis connected via video sequence to Smallville. I'd add the Fortress Of Solitude perhaps if it wouldn't be "too much". but if all goes well I would literally shoot for the moon in the sequel. Villains are endless really, throw in some kryptonite at times for a challenge to hinder things like using the x-ray vision like we've all done at times in the Arkham series and Batman's "detective vision". All in all I think Superman could thrive in the video game world.

Green Arrow

He's somewhat reference in Batman: Arkham Origins (look closely), and the CW television series "Arrow" being popular, it may be time for Oliver Queen to bring his bow and arrow to the video game realm. The similarities between Batman and Green Arrow mean it wouldn't be hard to do. Perhaps add some first-person-view aspects for some sniper work from the shadows, and some quick fire actions for close combat, as the Emerald Archer uses more than just the contents of his quiver to fight, so again, it wouldn't be difficult I am sure. Even add Arsenal in his Speedy days, or Black Canary (a la Catwoman in "Batman: Arkham City") for support.

Wonder Woman

This may not be at the top of the priority list for the character having only really had a hit television show way back in the late 1970's. The Amazonian Princess is, however, making her big screen debut (finally) in the upcoming sequel to "The Man Of Steel" (2013). I am not sure what direction they are taking the character in the upcoming films, but in a video game scenario, I would take it possibly back to origin. Which would basically translate a Xena-like world for Wonder Woman. Perhaps even have Lucy Lawless voice the character (always thought she should've been back in the 90's). Like Superman, the challenge is to have this character "weakened" at times to add a challenge to the game, otherwise even the most difficult modes will be a walk in the park. I would save the Steve Trevor and us humans for the sequel if all goes as planned.

The Flash

Yes, another of DC Comics "big" names, but with only Batman being the lone video game hero from them, may be best to start with them. Add that he has a new series coming out soon (if you watch "Arrow" you saw the seeds be planted). Plus, with The Flash, there is the coolness of a driving game but on foot. The Flash can run as fast as he wants too, but if he isn't in control, he is going to crash. Just like driving. There has been three main speedsters, the original Jay Garrick, Barry Allen, and Wally West. The glory of this is that the only real difference between them all is appearance and character traits. Meaning they could include all three of them in one story/game to appeal to everyone who is a fan of the Scarlet Speedster. "Black Flash" and/or "Black Lantern Flash" skins are a total must for this nerd.

Green Lantern Hal Jordan

He has fallen under the "needs redemption" list, with "Green Lantern" (2011) not fairing too well in theaters. Also, there is a heavy rumor that Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson could play Green Lantern John Stewart in either the "Man Of Steel" (2013) sequel(s), or in a solo film. The video game "Green Lantern: Rise Of The Manhunters" didn't seem to get good reviews either, leaving this as Hal Jordan's shot to reclaim his spot as "top" Green Lantern...outside of the comic books of course. Also, similar to The Flash, the other Green Lanterns of Sector 2814 could be a part of the game as well. Of course, Guy Gardner would require a skin of his current Red Lantern look in my opinion. Nathan Fillion with the Hal Jordan voice work of course.

Villains

We get a taste of villainy in "DC Universe Online" and online play in "Batman: Arkham Origins", but it isn't enough. With not just the popularity of the "Batman: Arkham" series, but the massive popularity of the "Grand Theft Auto" series, it isn't hard to imagine a villains game happening. Add the fact that some villains would fit perfectly in a GTA-styled game. More aptly fitting characters would be ones like The Joker, Two-Face, Deathstroke, basically the "human" bad guys. However, with some tweeks others could work well also, but definitely Batman's rogues gallery.



There's an endless list of character who could use a successful video game to boost their popularity or in some cases general existence. And of course, other publications could use some more and/or better video game franchises. They ever make a "Spawn" game yet? Looking forward to one day playing Deadpool's as well as "X-Men: Destiny" as it has a "Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic" for X-Box kind of vibe to it.

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