In an exciting development for gaming enthusiasts, the highly anticipated title, “MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls,” is set for release on the PlayStation 5 in 2026. This forthcoming game is a collaborative effort by Arc System Works, known for their work on the Guilty Gear and Dragon Ball Fighter Z series, along with PlayStation Studios and Marvel Games. This dynamic team-based fighting game promises players a visually captivating experience, drawing inspiration from anime styles, and offering high-speed, explosive combat that keeps the intensity at its peak. With every match promising unpredictable and dramatic showdowns, players can look forward to nonstop action.
This past August, during the prestigious Evolution Championship Series (EVO) and the subsequent closed beta test, players had the opportunity to form teams of four from a selection of six iconic Marvel characters. These included Captain America, Iron Man, Ms. Marvel, Star-Lord, Storm, and Doctor Doom. The game captivated audiences with its vibrant visuals and engaging combat mechanics, leaving fans eager for more.
In a thrilling announcement at the Tokyo Game Show 2025, scheduled from Thursday, September 25 to Sunday, September 28, it was revealed that Spider-Man and Ghost Rider (Robbie Reyes) would be joining the roster. This expansion brings the total number of playable characters to eight, adding even more depth and variety to the game.
### Spider-Man: The Agile Web-Slinger
Spider-Man, one of Marvel’s most beloved characters, enters “MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls” as a fast and agile fighter, armed with a versatile array of web-based attacks. His gameplay focuses heavily on his signature move, the Web Zip. This technique allows Spider-Man to shoot webs from both the ground and the air, propelling himself across the screen at high speeds. With the ability to launch upward for aerial strikes or dive downward for sudden ambushes, Spider-Man’s unpredictable movements are designed to keep opponents on their toes.
#### Web Zip: Unlocking a World of Attacks
Spider-Man’s Web Zip is a central element of his combat style, paving the way for a variety of follow-up attacks. When his webs connect with an opponent, players can execute powerful moves like the Zip Kick, a swift and forceful follow-up strike, or the Web Slam, which crushes foes with webbing. In situations where the Web Slam is blocked or overused, the move transitions into a Web Snare, drawing opponents closer for further engagement. Additionally, Spider-Man can shoot his web upwards to hang mid-air, enticing opponents into anti-air attacks. This dynamic combination of moves maintains pressure on opponents and fuels Spider-Man’s frenetic, high-paced offense.
#### Balancing Melee and Projectiles
Spider-Man’s toolkit is as versatile as it is effective, incorporating elements similar to special moves found in traditional fighting games. His projectile attack, Web Shot, allows him to fire a blob of webbing that can be launched from the air. Players can toggle between medium and heavy versions to fire multiple webs in quick succession. While effective for maintaining distance, it carries risk if opponents anticipate the move and counter by jumping in. His rush skill, Arachnid Assault, transitions into a somersault kick when performed in the air. This skill not only serves as a combo finisher but also provides invincibility frames against other airborne attacks, making it a valuable asset in both offensive and defensive scenarios.
#### Enhancing Attack and Defense
Spider-Man’s arsenal includes the Web Bomb, a lingering explosive that can be disrupted by enemy attacks but proves useful for hindering movement. His counter skill, Spidey-Sense, allows Spider-Man to evade attacks and throws while automatically counterattacking, providing a strategic advantage when recovering from knockdowns or interrupting enemy combos. Additionally, Spider-Man’s unique ability to crouch-walk—though not tested in this preview—may allow him to duck under certain projectiles while advancing. Overall, the combination of his core moves, including projectiles, rush attacks, and counter maneuvers, makes Spider-Man a highly versatile and dynamic character.
### Ghost Rider: The Tactical Vigilante
Ghost Rider, another iconic Marvel character, enters the fray with a distinct tactical approach centered around his unique Vengeance Gauge. This gauge, designed to resemble a car or motorcycle tachometer, plays a crucial role in Ghost Rider’s gameplay. As he uses his skills, the gauge builds, enhancing both his hit count and damage output. However, players must carefully manage this resource, as maxing out the gauge causes Ghost Rider to kneel in exhaustion, leaving him vulnerable during a lengthy recovery period.
#### Powerful Abilities Fueled by the Vengeance Gauge
Ghost Rider’s abilities are further enhanced by the Vengeance Gauge, offering a diverse range of powerful attacks. His Hellfire attack unleashes flames with a short recovery time, making it difficult for enemies to counter while blocking. Ideal for applying pressure or creating combo opportunities, Hellfire is a key component of Ghost Rider’s offensive strategy. Penance Driver, a commanding throw, is highly effective at breaking defenses and can be executed in both light and heavy versions, allowing him to lunge forward and grab foes from a mid-range distance. Judgment Cradle, his ranged chain attack, can branch into various follow-ups, including feints, low attacks, or overhead strikes, providing multiple options for breaking through defenses. Rounding out his arsenal is the Hell Scorcher, which sets the ground ablaze, dealing continuous damage in a designated area.
#### Managing the Vengeance Gauge
To effectively utilize the Vengeance Gauge, players must employ strategic moves, powerful supers, and ultimate skills, or tag in a teammate. The Revelator Chain move involves spinning Ghost Rider’s chain in a flurry of strikes that slowly deplete the gauge with each hit. Holding down the button extends the move, allowing continuous attacks while lowering the gauge. Another option is the Hell Throttle, which engulfs Ghost Rider in flames, damaging nearby foes while significantly reducing the gauge. However, this move leaves him exposed, making timing crucial.
Maintaining a high, but not maxed-out, Vengeance Gauge empowers Ghost Rider’s abilities, granting him a significant advantage. Combos enhanced by these boosted skills can deplete large portions of an opponent’s health bar, providing a satisfying and rewarding experience. However, players must exercise caution, as allowing the gauge to max out will leave Ghost Rider completely vulnerable. Mastering Ghost Rider requires practice and precision, offering a rewarding challenge for dedicated players.
Ghost Rider’s tactical gameplay and unique gauge management make him a thrilling character to both play and watch. His dramatic style, complete with chain whips and flaming attacks, adds a level of excitement and challenge that is sure to captivate players.
### Conclusion
“MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls” offers fans an immersive dive into the Marvel Universe, featuring a roster of iconic heroes and villains, beloved stages, and an intuitive gameplay system. With its anime-inspired visuals and high-speed combat, the game promises a fresh and engaging experience for players of all skill levels. As the release date in 2026 approaches, anticipation continues to build, and the addition of Spider-Man and Ghost Rider only adds to the excitement. Whether you’re a seasoned fighting game veteran or new to the genre, this game is shaping up to be a must-play for Marvel and gaming fans alike.
For more Information, Refer to this article.
