DC Games Could Beat Marvel to the Punch With a Magical Action Game

DC Games Could Beat Marvel to the Punch With a Magical Action Game

As a lifelong fan of DC Comics and someone who has spent countless hours immersed in the rich tapestry of their magical characters, I can confidently say that it’s high time for a magic-focused action game from DC. The mystical side of the DC universe is as deep and diverse as the cosmic realms Marvel boasts, if not more so.


Games featuring characters from Marvel and DC Comics have multiplied significantly in the 21st century. Ranging from the highly praised Batman: Arkham series to the upcoming Marvel Rivals hero shooter, both comic book franchises have been extensively transformed into video games. However, many aspects of these universes, particularly their mystical elements, haven’t been fully depicted in video game adaptations. Given DC Comics’ rich magic lore, thanks to teams like Justice League Dark and series such as the Sandman Universe, it could be that DC will be the first to launch an action game centered around magical characters.

DC Comics’ Magic Explained

In the comics since the 1930s Golden Era, magic has consistently played a significant role within the DC universe, featuring characters like The Spectre and Alan Scott’s Green Lantern who possess magical abilities. Although the origins of their powers weren’t delved into deeply at first, they would later be explored in depth over many years through intricate narratives and new character introductions. It’s worth noting that not every magic-wielding DC character draws their power from a single source. For instance, Shazam derives his powers from five Greek gods and one mortal king, whereas Swamp Thing embodies the potent force of The Green, the all-encompassing life energy found on Earth.

Magic-focused Marvel characters often center around Ghost Rider, the Scarlet Witch, and Doctor Strange, whereas DC boasts a diverse array of magic-oriented heroes and antagonists. Among them are figures such as:

  • Zatanna
  • Raven
  • Doctor Fate
  • Shazam
  • Constantine
  • Alan Scott
  • Swamp Thing
  • Trigon
  • Black Adam
  • Enchantress
  • Deadman
  • The Spectre
  • The demon Etrigan

Many of these characters usually operate independently but sometimes collaborate with teams within the DC universe, like the Justice Society, Justice League, Teen Titans, the Legion of Doom, and the group focused on magic, Justice League Dark. Magic isn’t just a power that characters can use; it also serves as the foundation for places and other realms, such as the Rock of Eternity and the Dreaming.

In the follow-up to “Watchmen,” titled “Doomsday Clock,” Doctor Manhattan posits that the magical elements within the DC universe are remnants or fragments of creation from a different universe.

The Potential of a Magic-Focused DC Action Game

In the realm of video games based on DC and Marvel comics, magical characters have often been secondary or additional characters rather than main protagonists. For instance, Zatanna was featured in Injustice: Gods Among Us, while Doctor Fate made an appearance in Injustice 2. However, these magic-wielding characters were not the central figures in either game’s campaign. Similarly, games like LEGO Batman and LEGO DC Super-Villains included magical characters, but they didn’t play pivotal roles.

As a passionate gamer, I’ve always imagined diving into a magical realm within the DC universe, much like the captivating gameplay of Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy. Picture this: a Justice League Dark game where Zatanna takes center stage, leading a team that includes Wonder Woman, Swamp Thing, Detective Chimp, and Man-Bat. This game could draw heavily from James Tynion IV’s gripping run on the title, offering an immersive experience that resonates with fans.

The Gameplay of a Magic-Focused DC Game

In a hypothetical DC game with a magic theme, the playstyle could significantly change depending on which characters are the main characters. For instance, if Zatanna is the protagonist, the game might be played from a first-person perspective since her spells typically don’t need tools like wands. This would make her gameplay resemble that of Skyrim’s magic and shouts in first-person. On the other hand, if Doctor Fate or Swamp Thing are the leads, the game could be played from a third-person viewpoint. Doctor Fate can fly and cast intricate spells, while Swamp Thing can manipulate his tendrils and the surrounding environment to his advantage. Although it may take some time for magical DC Comics characters to return to the big screen, they can have their moment in standalone games.

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2024-09-14 00:04