When it comes to things like Marvel’s Avengers, it’s possible to sell the game off the name itself. This has been true for decades, applies to any other popular name and is a major concern going into it. And, following the E3 presentation, I can’t say that concern is unfounded.
The demo itself starts with a great lead up to a story and what can only be a starting mission. Captain America, Hulk, Black Widow, Thor and Iron Man each get a chance to shine and offer their own play style and quirks. Each looked fun and had gimmicks based off what they’re known for, though the combat different look as deep as it could’ve been.
Progressing through the destroyed bridge invoked feelings of countless other games where you do the same thing, except this time there were cheesy one liners. In all and all, it was pretty much what you’d expect from a game similar to this, that is, until Taskmaster appeared.
There was nothing about Taskmaster that made him seem like a legitimate threat. He did the same handful of moves and was defeated after a fairly long time. More than enough to hear his quips and overstay his welcome. Even when he escapes and you beat him up while riding his jetpack, it doesn’t have that climatic finish you’d expect from Avengers or even match the experience someone like Taskmaster should have.
Shortly after the demo ended with his fight and the attack being a diversion and lead to a much greater plan. This is the hook and certainly worked, though it didn’t suggest Marvel’s Avengers would be the next great thing, as much as it being an average game with an above average property.
Given this was not shown to everyone or even uploaded, there is hope things will continue to improve but for now I would be cautiously optimistic, assuming you want something more than the usual comic book game.
