I’ve played fighting games for 35 years — and Marvel Tōkon is now one of my all-time favorites

Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls is a 4v4 tag fighting game released on August 7, 2026, for PS5 and PC. The game features a roster of 20 Marvel Comics heroes and villains. Created by Arc System Works, the developers behind notable titles like Guilty Gear: Strive and Dragon Ball FighterZ, Tōkon aims to deliver a satisfying fighting game experience for both fighting game enthusiasts and fans of Marvel Comics characters.

The gameplay revolves around the concept of team formation, with each player controlling a single character and an assist character. These characters share a single health bar, which requires coordination and strategy to manage effectively. The game offers a variety of assist types, including Shooter, Vertical, and Assault, each with their unique abilities and attack styles. Players can unlock additional characters by triggering stage transitions, wall breaks, or connecting specific auto combos.

Marvel Tōkon's story mode introduces five main teams, each with its own set of characters and narrative arcs. The story mode serves as an introduction to the characters for newcomers, while providing a fresh perspective for longtime Marvel fans. The narrative is written by comic book writer Kieron Gillen, who brings the characters to life with their unique personalities and motivations.

The game's mechanics are a blend of traditional fighting game controls and simplified options for newer players. This includes Quick Skill options and easy chain/auto combos, allowing players of all skill levels to compete effectively. The Assemble Gauge and Skill Gauge play crucial roles in team play, enabling players to unleash powerful team super moves known as Tōkon Assemble. These high-stakes moves can turn the tide of a match, making for intense and memorable gameplay moments.