Outside of developers and publishers, the video game industry has been influenced by a number of wonderful icons. One such example is Stan Lee. Best known for creating characters like Spider-Man and the Avengers, the comic book legend passed away at the age of 95 on Monday.
Stan Lee will be forever tied with the Marvel mythos. While most fans will no doubt remember him for the stories he wrote, or the movies he appeared in, Lee also played a role in a number of games released on Nintendo systems. At times, he served as a consultant for developers (X-Men Legends), though he most frequently served as a narrator (N64’s Spider-Man), providing fans with a familiar and friendly voice. Over the last few years, Lee even started to appear as a playable character in some titles (Amazing Spider-Man, Lego Marvel Super Heroes), mimicking the abilities of some of his greatest co-creations.
A number of major actors and celebrities have done video game voice work, but not all of them manage to carry over the same trademark charisma they’re known for. Stan Lee was certainly an exception; the comic book creator had a natural gift, and his presence in each game was always a welcome one. Going forward, Marvel games will just feel slightly emptier without him. We wish his family and loved ones our deepest sympathies.