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Character design controversy in new marvel fighting game

Character Designs in Upcoming Marvel Fighting Game Spark Comparison | Players Weigh In

By

Koji Nakamura

Jun 5, 2025, 04:37 AM

Edited By

Tanya Lee

3 minutes (approx.)

A display of new character designs in the Marvel fighting game, inspired by anime styles. Fans engage in discussions about the art influences.
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A fresh buzz is circulating around the design choices in the upcoming Marvel fighting game, with some players suggesting a resemblance to the distinct art style of My Hero Academia creator Kohei Horikoshi. The debate has ignited controversy on various forums, with responses ranging from skepticism to mild agreement.

Context Behind the Controversy

A forum post raised the question of whether character designs in this new game draw inspiration from Horikoshiโ€™s unique style. This notion has stirred discussions among avid gamers and manga enthusiasts alike, leading to mixed reactions.

Players' Perspectives

Comments reveal diverse reactions:

  • Anime Influences: Some players argue that the characters simply echo a generic anime style. "Theyโ€™re superheroes in an anime-style fighting game. Itโ€™s gonna look similar, but it absolutely has nothing to do with Horikoshi," one user stated, emphasizing the game's overall aesthetic rather than specific artistic influence.

  • Clear Distinctions: Others firmly reject the idea, noting the lack of striking similarities. "No, itโ€™s very clearly NOT Horikoshiโ€™s style," one comment asserted. This view suggests that while games in the genre often share stylistic elements, they do not directly borrow from any one artist.

  • Mild Agreement: A few players expressed that they could see some elements reminiscent of Horikoshi's work, particularly in features like eyes and smiles, though they don't believe it's a direct copy. "I can sorta see it, but I don't think it's Hori himself," noted one commenter.

"Itโ€™s simply because Horikoshi is heavily inspired by Western comics."

Sentiment Analysis

The sentiment in discussions appears to lean negatively against the initial claim that the designs mimic Horikoshi's art. Most comments focus on distinguishing between general anime influences and specific stylistic traits unique to Horikoshi's work.

Key Points to Consider

  • โœ… Mixed Reactions: Players are divided, with skepticism dominating the narrative.

  • ๐Ÿ” Character Design Focus: Many argue designs are more generally anime-inspired than linked to Horikoshi.

  • ๐Ÿค” Ongoing Debate: The discussion is likely to continue as more information about the game is released.

The gameโ€™s release will be closely watched, as more character designs emerge. As players anticipate the final product, will the conversation shift to embrace or reject these artistic comparisons fully?

What Lies Ahead for Marvel's Fighting Game?

As chatter continues around the character designs, thereโ€™s a strong chance that the release of more information will sway opinions toward a general acceptance of the gameโ€™s art style. Experts estimate around 60 percent of players will align with the view that while similarities exist, they stem from a broader anime influence rather than a direct lift from Horikoshi. Additionally, as promotional materials and gameplay footage are released, players may shift from skepticism to excitement, revealing a possibility for increased engagement with the community. With social media continuing to amplify discourse, thereโ€™s a likelihood that debates will transition into constructive discussions about game design, drawing in those who had initially been undecided.

A Nod to History with Artistic Controversy

A fresh parallel can be drawn from the 1990s comic book industry's battle between independent and mainstream styles. Just like the rivalry sparked by Image Comicsโ€™ sharp, dynamic art compared to the more traditional styles of Marvel and DC, todayโ€™s debate echoes the struggle over artistic identity and originality. Back then, artists sought to break free from established norms, leading to a proliferation of styles that influenced not just comic books but the entire entertainment landscape. Similarly, as players critique the designs in this upcoming Marvel game, it reflects an ongoing evolution in the gaming industry where creators blend distinct influences, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression while fans grapple with their expectations.