Marvel Cosmic Invasion: The Ultimate Review & Gameplay

Marvel Cosmic Invasion delivers old-school comic action with a modern twist, offering a diverse roster and compelling gameplay that will keep Marvel fans engaged.

Ever since its announcement, Marvel Cosmic Invasion has captivated fans with its promise of an epic crossover event. The sheer variety of characters, including unlikely alliances like Venom and Wolverine fighting side-by-side, is a refreshing change, especially compared to the more predictable MCU offerings.

The game's premise, while familiar (heroes uniting against a cosmic threat, in this case, Annihilus), provides ample opportunity for a wide range of Marvel heroes to join the battle. Spanning across the galaxy, Marvel Cosmic Invasion boasts an impressive roster that draws from various eras and teams within the Marvel universe.

Unlike some media that heavily relies on MCU characters, Marvel Cosmic Invasion offers a more diverse selection. You can team up MCU favorites like Black Panther with classic characters such as Venom, Wolverine, Phoenix, Cosmic Ghost Rider, and Beta Ray Bill. The inclusion of fan-favorites like Beta Ray Bill adds a layer of appreciation for long-time comic readers.

Gameplay and Character Diversity in Marvel Cosmic Invasion

Environments and enemies are equally diverse, drawing from the same extensive pool of Marvel lore. Whether you're an MCU fan or a hardcore comic enthusiast, you'll find something to appreciate in the game's attention to detail. Seeing these characters interact and fight together is a highlight, and while four-player co-op is available, it's not necessary to enjoy the experience.

Marvel Cosmic Invasion uses a tag-team mechanic, even in single-player mode, meaning you always have two heroes at your disposal. This encourages experimentation with different character combinations, such as Spider-Man and Venom or Wolverine and Phoenix, leading to fun and effective combos.

The roster's diversity extends beyond just character selection; it also encompasses different playstyles. Some characters can fly, others can use grabs, and not all can block. This incentivizes players to explore the entire roster and find characters that complement their preferred playstyle. This variety adds significant depth to solo play, ensuring a constantly fresh experience as you switch between characters.

Unlockables and Extras in Marvel Cosmic Invasion

Marvel Cosmic Invasion is packed with extras and unlockables, providing plenty of content for both casual and dedicated players. A roughly four-hour campaign can be completed in a weekend, unlocking new characters along the way.

For those seeking a more structured experience, the game offers a semi-guided way to play through themed levels. Each stage features challenges, often involving specific characters who appear in the level's cutscenes. This adds an extra layer of immersion, although players are free to use any heroes they choose and tackle the challenges later.

Dedicated fans can spend up to 20 hours unlocking everything, including additional costume color palettes, music, and lore notebooks. These unlocks are accessed through the "Cosmic Matrix," a grid where players use in-game currency to purchase extras. The Cosmic Matrix provides a compelling incentive for random playthroughs, alongside the task of leveling up individual heroes and unlocking new abilities. This optional system adds depth without feeling mandatory.

Solo Play vs. Multiplayer

Playing solo can often be a drawback in beat 'em ups, but Marvel Cosmic Invasion avoids this pitfall. The tag-team mechanic works exceptionally well, making all player counts enjoyable. The diverse array of playstyles makes it a more accessible and recommendable title.

Marvel Cosmic Invasion is a blast whether you're playing alone or with friends. The tag-team mechanic shines, allowing you to swap between iconic Marvel characters to defeat memorable villains. The game improves upon previous efforts and delivers a polished and engaging experience.

Marvel Cosmic Invasion is a must-play for Marvel fans and beat 'em up enthusiasts alike. Its diverse roster, engaging gameplay, and wealth of unlockables make it a standout title in the superhero gaming landscape.