Since the beginning of the year, I’ve been playing Marvel’s Midnight Suns on and off. Sitting at around 50 hours, it’s absolutely blown me away. I can’t think of a strategy game I’ve enjoyed this much. Combining my loves of XCOM, Marvel and card-based combat in games. It really is one of the best games not only in the genre, but possibly ever.
It’s real shame that it wasn’t commercially successful, because there’s so much going for it. Although I can see why initial impressions might be hard for people to get past. With the famous heroes looking like knock-off versions of the ones you’ve seen on the silver screen. I get it, but what a silly thing to get hung up on and miss out on such a brilliant game.
Midnight Suns
Marvel’s Midnight Suns, developed by Firaxis Games, is a unique blend of tactical RPG gameplay with card-based combat mechanics set in the darker, supernatural corner of the Marvel Universe.
While it initially faced some mixed reception due to its unconventional approach, it’s a game that deserves a closer look. Critical impressions were solid, and now we’re starting to see an almost cult-like following, this is one hell of a game. It’ll be a timeless classic that flew under the radar for sure.
Gameplay
The core gameplay loop revolves around managing your team of heroes, exploring the Abbey (your base of operations), and engaging in turn-based missions.
Each hero has a unique set of abilities represented by cards, and during combat, you strategically play these cards to attack, defend, or buff your team. The card system adds a layer of unpredictability and forces you to adapt your tactics on the fly.
Midnight Suns uses cards like the gameplay of Fights in Tight Spaces or even Sly the Spire and Knock on the Coffin Lid. But the hero-specific attacks and movements are so beyond your average card game.
The Abbey serves as more than just a hub. You can interact with various Marvel heroes, build relationships through conversations and Hangouts, and upgrade facilities. These relationships impact combat through Friendship levels, unlocking powerful combo abilities. The Abbey also offers light resource management and exploration, adding to the depth of the experience.
I’ve dropped-off games in the past where you have to spend so much time managing relationships in-between the good stuff. But in Midnight Suns, it somehow just works. I think it helps that there’s no romance to push on, it’s about understanding characters and that’s it.
Story
The narrative centres around you, The Hunter, a customizable protagonist resurrected to combat Lilith, the Mother of Demons. Delving into themes of family, redemption, and the sacrifices made to protect the world.
While the overall plot is engaging, the pacing can be uneven, with some slower moments in the Abbey contrasting with intense combat sequences. All that time chatting by the pool or in the bar, or book club, can be a little odd when the combat is so engaging and impactful.
The voice acting and character interactions are generally well-done, capturing the essence of each hero. The dialogue is often humorous, balancing the darker themes of the story. If you’re unfamiliar with some of the Midnight Suns themselves, it feels like a great jumping-on point. Plus you have some big-name Avengers to engage with, too.
Visuals and Sound
Midnight Suns looks great, with detailed character models and environments. The Abbey, in particular, is beautifully designed, offering a sense of mystery and intrigue.
The combat is where it really shines. Movement and animation of each hero, tailored. Moves, powers and abilities all perfectly created for the character. There’s fan service, and then there’s attention to detail and loyalty to decades-old characters. Midnight Suns delivers perfectly.
The soundtrack complements the game’s atmosphere, blending orchestral scores with electronic elements. The sound effects during combat are impactful, enhancing the sense of immersion. Largely left to the background, but still fitting and well crafted.
Overall
Marvel’s Midnight Suns is a refreshing take on the superhero genre. While it may not be for everyone due to its card-based combat and slower-paced moments, it rewards those who invest the time. The deep tactical gameplay, engaging story, and well-developed characters make it a worthwhile experience for fans of Marvel and strategy games alike.
Midnight Suns deserves a sequel, based purely on the combat alone. Getting a 50+ hour storyline out of it and making it engaging every step of the way, is an impossible task and Firaxis have smashed it.
One of my top 10 all-time games now, I think. I initially bought it on Epic, but I need to have it permanently accessible, so I’ll be getting it again on Steam to have on the Steam Deck. That’s how good it is.
