PGC NEWS

The Marvel brand has exploded in popularity over the past decade, largely thanks to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). This success has naturally extended to video games, with the Marvel Ultimate Alliance series offering a unique blend of action and RPG elements. Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3: The Black Order, a Nintendo Switch exclusive, aims to capitalize on this popularity. Does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive in.

A Galactic Gathering of Heroes

True to its name, Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3 boasts a vast roster of iconic Marvel characters. Unlike its predecessors, which drew inspiration from comic book designs, Ultimate Alliance 3 embraces the MCU aesthetic. From Captain America to Iron Man, characters look and feel like their on-screen counterparts, complete with signature moves and quips. This familiarity adds a layer of immersion for fans of the films.

The game’s narrative revolves around the Infinity Stones and Thanos’ Black Order, mirroring the events of Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame. The story kicks off with the Guardians of the Galaxy stumbling upon a Kree warship containing a plan to thwart Thanos. Chaos ensues, the Stones are scattered across Earth, and our heroes must retrieve them before the Black Order can seize them. This setup provides a compelling backdrop for exploring various Marvel locations, from Stark Tower to Wakanda, and encountering a diverse cast of heroes and villains. The game encourages exploration and experimentation with different team compositions, offering players the chance to assemble their dream team of Marvel powerhouses.

Guardians of the Galaxy in Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3

Explosive Combat and Synergy

The MCU is known for its spectacular action sequences, and Ultimate Alliance 3 delivers in spades. The combat system is a satisfying blend of action and RPG elements, with a focus on flashy abilities and team synergy. Players can unleash a barrage of light and heavy attacks, building up energy for powerful special moves. Each hero has four unique abilities that unlock as they level up, further customizable with skill points. What sets Ultimate Alliance 3 apart is its emphasis on synergistic attacks. Certain abilities can be combined for devastating effects, encouraging strategic team building and coordination. With a four-person team, the possibilities for dynamic and visually impressive combat are endless.

Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3 combat screenshot

Balancing Act: Where the Game Falters

While the vast roster of heroes is a major draw, it also leads to some balancing issues. Certain characters, like Scarlet Witch and Doctor Strange, are hindered by their limited healing capabilities. Others, like Captain America, struggle to fulfill their tanking role due to the game’s targeting mechanics. The Alliance Enhancement System, designed to boost all heroes, requires a significant grind to unlock meaningful upgrades. Similarly, the Infinity Stone system, while offering stat boosts and abilities, feels somewhat superfluous in the late game, with higher-tier stones quickly outclassing earlier ones.

Infinity Stone system in Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3

The Verdict: A Fun, Flawed Superhero Fest

Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3: The Black Order delivers on its promise of a thrilling superhero experience. The vast roster, engaging combat, and MCU-inspired presentation are sure to delight fans. However, balancing issues and a somewhat grindy progression system hold it back from true greatness. Despite its flaws, Ultimate Alliance 3 offers a fun and chaotic romp through the Marvel universe, perfect for fans looking for a cooperative superhero adventure.

Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3 gameplay screenshot

Game Information

• Developer: Team Ninja
• Publisher: Nintendo
• Genre: Action RPG
• Release Date: July 19, 2019
• Platform: Nintendo Switch