Movie tie-in games don’t have the best reputation. While there are exceptions to every rule, developers are often forced to rush the title to ensure that the game can release around the same time as the film. Fortunately, some franchise-owners have started to realize that bad games can be detrimental to the overall brand. TQ Jefferson, the head of Marvel Comics’ video game division, recently told IGN that Marvel is waiting on making another Avengers video game until the company can find a publisher that’s willing to uphold its standards.
“The Avengers game will come when we have the right partner, that has the right vision, that has the time to develop a strong, competitive triple-A title and wants to do it right,” said Jefferson. “It has to hit our three pillars: Fun and engaging gameplay, true to the characters, compelling story. Without hitting those notes, we shouldn’t do it. Gamers, they know better. They’re not going to flock to something that’s sub-par.”
“I think the fact that there wasn’t an Avengers game turned out in time for the film is indicative of Marvel’s new attitude and the approach to how we find partners and build games. I think in the heyday of the movie licensed game, these games were popping out all the time and most of them sucked.”
While the Avengers film did not receive a tie-in game, the theatrical releases of Captain America: The First Avenger and Thor both did, and the results failed to impress. The latter title received a “C-” score from Nintendojo when it released in 2011. Jefferson claimed that Marvel “got a bloody nose on both of those.” Perhaps lending some credence to Jefferson’s statements is the fact that, while both Captain America and Thor have had theatrical sequels over the last year, neither film received an accompanying tie-in game.
Fans won’t have long to wait to see if Marvel’s future gaming endeavors prove to be more enjoyable. Disney Infinity: Marvel Super Heroes releases later this year. Stay tuned to Nintendojo where we’ll have more information on the title as it draws closer to release.
Source: IGN