MARVEL GOES ALL IN WITH NEW GAMES

The heroes of the Marvel universe have broken free of their comic book origins, spreading to television and movies in recent years to become some of the best-known characters in pop culture. Now their powers continue to grow as Spider-Man, The Hulk, Wolverine, Captain America and the rest of the gang begin their dominance over the world of video games. They are popping up everywhere from mobile and Internet-based offerings to console and PC games, as well as guest spots in games like "Zen Pinball 2," "LittleBigPlanet" and more.

Tackling games of every genre, these titles may seem similar to games like Bejeweled or hidden object games, only adding in the power-packed element of your favorite comic book characters. Here's a rundown of some of the hottest games bursting at the seams with the world's mightiest heroes.


Marvel Heroes

If you're looking to clobber baddies online with friends with literally dozens of the most popular characters from the Marvel universe, then you need look no further than "Marvel Heroes." An online action-based MMORPG, "Marvel Heroes" is a romp with an epic story arc as your favorite spandex-wearing do-gooders complete hundreds of quests and find loot with all of the super powers you could ever ask for. Each character can be progressed through their own skill trees and they can even be easily swapped out on the fly, meaning you're never more than a few clicks away from playing as your favorite characters.

Marvel Puzzle Quest

"Marvel Puzzle Quest" offers a unique spin on an old favorite. Being from the Puzzle Quest family of games, this mix of RPG and gem-busting goodness has players swapping gems around in order to create chains, dish out damage and unleash devastating super powers. There's a lengthy story mode to plow through and a ridiculous number of gem-based puzzles that serve as a unique combat system between your favorite heroes and the forces of darkness. If you enjoy games like "Bejeweled" and "Candy Crush Saga," then "Marvel Puzzle Quest" is exactly what the doctor ordered.

Marvel Avengers Alliance

For fans of more straightforward role-playing games with classic, turn-based combat, "Marvel Avengers Alliance" might be more your speed. The galaxy is in turmoil following a catastrophic event known as “The Pulse,” and now it's up to S.H.I.E.L.D. operatives and their fellow heroes from the Marvel universe to step in and save the day. Take on quests, battle evil and dish out the damage with characters like Storm, Cyclops, Nick Fury and more.

Marvel War of Heroes

Just to prove that Marvel heroes can be plugged into just about any type of game, there's even a card battle offering for gamers on the go called "Marvel War of Heroes." Collect cards featuring your favorite Marvel characters, build teams of complementary powers and send them into battle to see which deck will reign supreme in this free-to-play, regularly updated card battler. You can even team up with online friends to take on the fiercest of enemies, making this an ideal experience for mobile gamers looking to start their own hometown group of gaming Avengers.