Marvel's Midnight Suns is a strategy RPG that blends tactical combat with character-driven progression in the Marvel universe. Players take on the role of the Hunter, a customizable original hero, while leading teams of superheroes against supernatural threats led by Lilith and the elder god Chthon.
Gameplay
The core loop alternates between mission-based combat and time spent at the Abbey, the team's headquarters. In combat, players select three heroes for turn-based encounters on small battlefields. Actions rely on a deck of cards that represent hero abilities, environmental interactions, and movement. Positioning matters for lining up attacks or combos, and the system emphasizes planning around card draws rather than random hit chances. Between fights, the Hunter explores the Abbey grounds in third-person view to uncover items, complete research projects at facilities like the Forge and Yard, and build relationships through conversations and activities with heroes from groups such as the Avengers and X-Men. These bonds unlock new cards, bonuses, and story moments while advancing the campaign against demonic forces.
Game Modes
The experience centers on a single-player campaign structured around main story missions chosen at the Mirror Table in the War Room. These missions advance the narrative and introduce new heroes. Additional Hero Ops provide optional side content that yields resources and ability cards. Exploration and upgrades at the Abbey tie directly into mission preparation, with no separate competitive or multiplayer structures present.
Combat and Progression Systems
Combat rewards creative use of the card system alongside environmental elements and hero synergies. Players manage a hand of cards each turn, with options to redraw or reposition before executing abilities. Progression comes from upgrading cards, researching Abbey improvements, and earning Intel through missions to send heroes on Hero Ops. The Hunter's customization options affect appearance and dialogue choices, influencing how relationships develop with the roster of Marvel characters.
Story and Setting
The narrative unfolds in the darker corners of the Marvel universe, focusing on the fight against Lilith's demonic invasion. Time at the Abbey allows players to learn more about each hero through personal interactions that go beyond typical comic or film portrayals. Secrets scattered around the grounds, including those unlocked via Words of Power, add layers to the base management and exploration.
Is It Worth Playing?
Marvel's Midnight Suns appeals to players who enjoy turn-based tactical strategy combined with RPG elements like relationship building and base upgrades. Reviews highlight the depth of the card-driven combat and the quality of character interactions as standout features. The game launched in 2022 and stands as a complete single-player title without ongoing seasonal content. Those drawn to Marvel heroes and deliberate, planning-focused gameplay will find the systems rewarding, while players seeking fast-paced action or multiplayer options may prefer other titles. Availability on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S makes it accessible for fans of the genre on those platforms.
