Celebrating the Marvel vs. Capcom Legacy: Bengus’ Iconic Artwork and the Future of the Franchise
Marvel Comics is once again tapping into the rich vein of nostalgia and artistic excellence that has defined the Marvel vs. Capcom series for over 25 years. This December, fans will be treated to a new line of variant covers featuring the original character illustrations by the renowned artist Bengus. These covers are not just mere tributes; they are a celebration of a franchise that has captivated gamers and comic book enthusiasts alike with its innovative mechanics, memorable music, and, of course, Bengus’ iconic art style. The Marvel vs. Capcom series has been a cornerstone in the world of crossover fighting games, blending the universes of Marvel and Capcom into a seamless, action-packed experience. Now, Bengus’ artwork will grace the covers of current comic book titles, allowing fans to relive the magic in a new medium.
The variant covers will showcase a diverse array of characters from both the Marvel and Capcom universes. Fans can look forward to seeing characters like Venom, the Avengers, Infinity Watch, Wolverine, and the X-Men depicted in Bengus’ distinctive style. These covers will be available for purchase on specific dates throughout December, starting with All-New Venom #1 and Avengers #21 on December 4th. The Uncanny X-Men #7 cover will follow on December 11th, while Captain America #16 and Fantastic Four #27, along with X-Men #9, will be released on December 18th. Finally, the Amazing Spider-Man #64 and Iron Man #3 covers will hit the shelves on December 25th. Each cover is a testament to Bengus’ talent and the enduring appeal of the Marvel vs. Capcom series.
For those eager to get their hands on these variant covers, preorders are available at local comic shops. Supporting local comic book shops is a great way to ensure the continued success of the industry, and these variant covers provide an excellent opportunity to do so. Additionally, digital copies of the comics can be redeemed using a code found in the print editions, making it easy for fans to enjoy their favorite stories in both physical and digital formats. The Marvel Unlimited app, available on iOS and Android devices, offers access to a vast catalog of over 30,000 comics from Marvel’s history, including those redeemed from print. This app is a treasure trove for any Marvel fan, providing hours of entertainment and a convenient way to read comics on the go.
The Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection, released recently, has reignited interest in the franchise. This collection brings together all six of the iconic games that defined the partnership between Marvel and Capcom. Each game is presented in a way that honors its past while incorporating modern features to make them accessible to new players. The main focus of the collection is the six arcade versions of the games, running as they were intended in the 1990s. This approach highlights which games have aged well and which may not stand up to modern fighting games. Marvel vs. Capcom 2, with its 56-character roster and fast, frenetic gameplay, still holds up as a top game in the collection, offering a nostalgic trip for long-time fans and an exciting experience for newcomers.
X-Men: Children of the Atom, on the other hand, has a slower pace and only 10 characters, making it less popular compared to newer games. However, the other games in the collection still offer enjoyable gameplay, with unique mechanics like the Infinity Stone feature in Marvel Super Heroes and the tag-based fighting system in X-Men vs. Street Fighter. Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter and Marvel vs. Capcom include secret characters that add variety to the collection. The inclusion of these characters, along with the side-scrolling brawler The Punisher from 1993, provides a comprehensive look at the franchise’s evolution. While The Punisher may not add much to the overall collection, its presence is a nod to the franchise’s diverse history.
The Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection also includes modern perks such as a quick-save feature and rollback netcode for online play. The quick-save feature, though limited to only one slot for all seven games, is a welcome addition for players looking to switch between games without losing progress. The rollback netcode improves online play, though its effectiveness may vary based on the player base. Extra features like a museum with concept art and a jukebox for listening to the soundtracks offer a trip down memory lane for fans. Before this collection, the last official release of these games was in 2012, and fans were unsure when they would be available again. The Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection is a great preservation of these classic games and a worthy addition to the modern era.
Capcom’s commitment to preserving the legacy of Marvel vs. Capcom is evident not only in the Fighting Collection but also in their ongoing discussions about the future of the franchise. Capcom producer Shuhei Matsumoto recently shared that the company is hopeful for a new Marvel vs. Capcom game. The last release in the franchise was Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite in 2017, and fans have been eagerly awaiting news of a new installment. Matsumoto revealed that the success of the Fighting Collection could impact future decisions, and he emphasized the importance of fan support in making a new game happen. Working with Marvel has been an exciting experience for Capcom, and they are enthusiastic about the possibility of continuing the collaboration.
The release of the Fighting Collection on current hardware is a positive sign for the future of the franchise. The digital release is set for September 12th, with versions available for PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, and PC. An Xbox version is also in the works for a 2025 release. Fans can sign up to receive updates on their favorite media and never miss a scoop. By signing up, they acknowledge and agree to the terms and conditions, showing their support for their favorite media and confirming their agreement with the terms and conditions. This news gives fans hope for a new Marvel vs. Capcom game, something they haven’t had in years. Even if a new game doesn’t happen soon, older entries in the franchise are now available on current hardware, providing a great way for new players to experience these iconic games.
The Marvel vs. Capcom series has left an indelible mark on the world of fighting games and crossover media. From its early days in arcades to its recent resurgence with the Fighting Collection, the franchise has consistently delivered thrilling gameplay and unforgettable characters. Bengus’ artwork has played a significant role in defining the visual identity of the series, and the new variant covers are a fitting tribute to his contributions. These covers not only celebrate the legacy of Marvel vs. Capcom but also introduce a new generation of fans to the timeless appeal of Bengus’ art. As the franchise continues to evolve, the support of the fan community will be crucial in shaping its future.
In conclusion, the Marvel vs. Capcom variant covers featuring Bengus’ iconic artwork are a must-have for fans of the franchise. These covers, available for preorder at local comic shops, provide an excellent opportunity to support the comic book industry while celebrating a beloved series. The Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection offers a comprehensive look at the franchise’s history, with modern features that make it accessible to new players. Capcom’s commitment to the series and the potential for a new game highlight the enduring appeal of Marvel vs. Capcom. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, there’s never been a better time to dive into the world of Marvel vs. Capcom and experience the magic for yourself.