Expanding Lore Through Original Characters
Modern fighting games are evolving beyond simple adaptations of existing media. We are seeing a shift where developers use the medium to actively expand a franchise’s universe. A prime example is the introduction of Ella Mental in Invincible VS.
Rather than relying solely on established comic book heroes, the game introduces original characters born from the creative minds of co-creators Robert Kirkman and Cory Walker. This strategy allows franchises to test new character archetypes and storylines in an interactive environment before potentially migrating them to other media, such as backup stories in comic issues.
This trend of integrating “Original Characters” (OCs) ensures that the game feels like a fresh experience for longtime fans while providing a unique entry point for newcomers who aren’t as familiar with the source material.
The Shift Toward Narrative-Driven Combat
The fighting game genre is moving away from the traditional “arcade ladder” approach, placing a heavier emphasis on deep, narrative-driven story modes. The approach taken by developer Quarter Up for Invincible VS highlights this evolution.
Instead of simply retelling the plot of the television series or comics, the industry is leaning into “What If” scenarios. By exploring alternative timelines—such as a world where Nolan never changed and led the Viltrumite invasion of Earth—developers can create high-stakes conflict without contradicting the established canon of the main series.
This narrative depth transforms the fighting game from a competitive tool into a storytelling medium, allowing players to experience different versions of their favorite characters in conflict.
The Evolution of Hybrid Voice Casting
As gaming budgets grow and celebrity involvement increases, a “hybrid” approach to voice acting is becoming more common. This involves splitting the role of a character between a high-profile actor for narrative sequences and a specialized voice actor for gameplay.
In Invincible VS, we see this with Rex Splode, who is voiced by Jason Mantzoukas in the campaign but played by Ryan Goldsher during actual gameplay. This isn’t an isolated incident; similar practices have been seen in titles like Mortal Kombat 1 and early Iron Man games, where physical noises and combat grunts are handled by different performers than the cinematic dialogue.
This trend allows developers to maintain the “star power” of a television or movie cast for the story’s emotional beats while ensuring that the repetitive, high-energy sounds of combat are handled by actors experienced in the technical demands of fighting game audio.
The Power of In-House Studio Synergy
The collaboration between Skybound Entertainment and its in-house studio, Quarter Up, represents a growing trend of “vertical integration” in gaming. By keeping development internal, the creators of the IP have direct oversight over how their world is translated into a game.
This synergy ensures that the game’s tone, art direction, and characterization remain consistent with the original vision. When the Narrative Director and Art Director work hand-in-hand with the original writers, the result is a product that feels like a natural extension of the brand rather than a licensed afterthought.
For players, this means a higher level of authenticity, from the voice acting of returning stars like J.K. Simmons and Gillian Jacobs to the specific fighting styles of the roster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ella Mental is an original African American superhero created for Invincible VS. She is a humble heiress who uses an ancient totem to control earth, water, fire, and air.
The story mode is an original idea from the series’ creators that explores an alternative timeline where Nolan leads the Viltrumite invasion of Earth.
The game is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
What do you think about the addition of original characters to established universes? Does it enhance the experience or distract from the source material? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more deep dives into the future of gaming!
