From Page To (Video Game) Screen: Comic Book-to-Video-Game Crossovers That You Should Be Playing
As immersive as the worlds within the bounds of a comic book may be, sometimes you want something a bit more interactive. There’s nothing quite like having a controller in your hands and becoming the master of your own pixelated fate. Luckily for fans of both page and screen, there are tons of games based on our favorite comic book series. Here are 5 of our favorites.
1) The Wolf Among Us. Based on the long-running series by Bill Willingham, The Wolf Among Us drops players square in the middle of Fabletown. Players will assume the role of Bigby Wolf, sheriff of Fabletown and current alias of the Big Bad Wolf, as he investigates the murder of a woman. Gathering clues, building or breaking relationships, and exploring the Manhattan home of some of the best-known storybook characters will be the secret to solving the case. Play it now on the PC, PS3, PS4, PS Vita, Wii U, Xbox 360, and Xbox One.
2) The Walking Dead. There’s no doubt that Telltale Games are the masters of comic book translation. That’s why they’re getting a second entry on our list. Now in its 4th season, The Walking Dead series never fails to disappoint. It’s set in the same universe as the Skybound comic series (and the AMC TV show), but the storylines and character are unique. This makes it an ideal play for both those who have read every line of the comics and those who are brand-new to the world of the undead. The game is available now for all next-gen consoles.
3) Injustice & Injustice 2. Set in an alternate DC Universe, these fighting-style games follow Superman as he rises to power as an evil dictator following his accidental destruction of Metropolis. Players will compete in one-on-one battles, paring heroes and villains from all DC series against one another to put an end to Superman’s tyrannical rule. The sequel, Injustice 2, delivers more of the same action as Superman’s followers try to clear his name and re-establish his rule. While based in the comic book world, this game has the unique distinction of spawning its own limited run of prequel stories. The first Injustice is also one of the few on our list that can be found for the Wii U. Injustice 2 is available for all next-gen consoles.
4) Lego Marvel’s Avengers. While having its roots in the Marvel comic book universe, this 2nd installment in the Lego Marvel video games borrows the majority of its characters and plot points from the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Individual levels incorporate parts of Captain America: The First Avenger, Iron Man 3, Thor: The Dark World, and Captain America: The Winter Soldier. Players take on the role of various Avengers and use their powers to solve puzzles and achieve victory in boss battles. Expect all of the usual block-based humor and quirks found in a Lego game, but combined with enough superhero action to keep gamers of all ages engaged. Pick it up for the PC, PS3, PS4, PS Vita, Wii U, Xbox 360, and Xbox One.
5) Deadpool. For those looking for a more adult gameplay experience, 2013’s Deadpool may hit the spot. The game follows Deadpool as he coerces High Moon Studios (the actual developers of the game) into making him into a video game hero. He dives into the scripted tale of Deadpool vs Mr Sinister, but frequently smashes through the 4th wall as he encounters unfinished areas of the game and has to beg for more money from the studio to finish them. Predating the movie by about 5 years, don’t expect to see any Ryan Reynolds cameos in here. However, the game was written by a former Deadpool comic writer, so do expect all the M-rate jokes, comments, and actions that our favorite red-suited anti-hero is known for. It is available now for Windows PC, PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, and Xbox One.
That’s it for our list. Did we hit your favorites, or have we missed out on a hidden gem? Sound off in the comments below and let us know what gets you to pick up the controller after you put down the comic book.
Kade is often described as, “here just a minute ago” and can often be found just around the corner from where you’d expect. Approaching is not encouraged, unless you come with a strong wifi connection and a nice charcuterie board with gluten-free breads.
