Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls Phoenix Cyclops DLC, My Thoughts

Since last June on this here blog, I looked at the various trailers of the Arc System Works-developed and Sony-released Marvel fighting game Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls. The game uses a unique mechanic of starting with one character, plus an assist, then unlock other characters through satisfying certain conditions. As part of this mechanic, the game has five "teams" of four characters: the Unbreakable X-Men, the Amazing Guardians, the Fighting Avengers, the Knights of Doom, and the Samurai Outriders.

All in all, that means this game has twenty characters you can choose to play as. However, that doesn't mean that there isn't any room for more characters to join the party! Especially considering that the Marvel Universe has been around for over 80 years, and has seen hundreds of characters, both famous and obscure. ASW and Sony seem to agree on this idea, as we now have the trailer for the first DLC character: Cyclops! Let's take a look!

In case you're wondering, Ray Chase voices Cyclops in X-Men '97, the sequel to the classic 1990s X-Men cartoon. He took over as Scott Summers's voice as Norm Spencer, Cyclops's VA in the original cartoon, had died in 2020. Chase's Cyclops voice is pretty darn good.

Cyclops has had a bit of a renaissance in recent years. His portrayal in X-Men '97, his being a playable character in Marvel Cosmic Invasion, and James Marsden will be reprising him in Avengers: Doomsday after portraying him in the Fox X-Men films.

I find it interesting that we're not getting standard Cyclops, but Phoenix Cyclops from the 2012 crossover storyline Avengers vs. X-Men. In that story, Cyclops (alongside Emma Frost, Colossus, Magik, and Namor the Sub-Mariner) got bonded to fragments of the Phoenix Force.

He looks really good, like he stepped right out of the comic books.

Art from Avengers vs. X-Men #5 (June 2012) by John Romita, Jr.

The dialogue seems to imply that instead of having a piece of the Force like he did in the comics, this version of Cyclops has the whole Force in him. Which...can be worse than just having a piece. I mean, the Phoenix itself posed as Jean Grey to understand humanity, and well...we all saw what came of that.

I'm just saying. Power corrupts, and all that. Although some would also say that power reveals, and considering that Cyclops got drunk on Phoenix Force not long before the X-Men got all ethnosupremacist cult in the Krakoa Era...yeah. We're seeing a far less human Cyclops than normal.

I think there is a reason why they're introducing this version of Cyke. Presumably, they can do more with the Phoenix Force than just his standard optic blasts, and I think it also allows them to be a little different from other games that used the character, like Cosmic Invasion. 

Well, I hope people really enjoy using Cyclops and he turns out to be a fun character to play as. I'm going to go enjoy him in Cosmic Invasion myself. Thanks for reading this blog entry! If you liked it, show it off! Take care of yourselves and each other! If you liked it, show it off! Take care of yourselves and each other! If you like what I write and want to give this blog some additional support, please make a donation to my Ko-Fi! See you next time!

Nintendo Classics July 2026 Update, My Thoughts

Four more games have come to the Nintendo Switch Online service! A platformer, a puzzle/fighter, an RPG, and a puzzle compilation! Not big in number, but hopefully big in quality! Let's look at the trailer!

Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3 - Developed and published by Nintendo, released in 1993. The third game in the Super Mario Land trilogy (although it's not about Mario), you play as the "Bad Mario" himself, as he travels an island seeking treasure so he can have a castle of his own. This was the first game in which Wario was the protagonist (his debut in the last Mario Land game was as a villain). This game was praised for its graphics and length but was given more mixed reception for its difficulty.

I have played the first two Mario Land games and enjoyed the heck out of them, although admittedly, I liked the second one more. I have never played this one, and I don't know why. Maybe because it didn't seem like a Mario Land game to me. I mean, it wasn't even about Mario! Of course, nowadays, I know they gave it the subtitle for the purpose of marketing. It clearly worked, as the game sold five million copies and Wario got his own series of games out of it. I loved Wario World.

Fortified Zone - Developed and published by Jalico. Released in Japan in February 1991 and America in September 1991. In this game, you play as a pair of mercenaries named Masato and Mizuki as you fight through various environments to penetrate a military fortress/stronghold. The game was given mixed reviews on release. It was praised for its mix of action and puzzle elements but got criticism for its short length and difficulty curve. It would get a sequel for the Game Boy in 1992 that was not released in Japan.

I personally think this game will be an interesting playing experience. It seems like a game whose big strength is its concept.

And of course they have to deal with giant enemy crabs!

The Sword of Hope II - Developed and published by Kemco. Released in Japan in 1992, North America in 1996. The sequel to the 1989 game The Sword of Hope, you play as Prince Theo of the kingdom of Riccar. As Theo, you must retrieve the titular weapon from the evil menace known as Zakdos. The game was given mixed reviews, mainly for slow battles that made the game a chore. It was still seen as a good enough game for those who wanted an RPG on the go.

Heh heh. Blop. That's a funny name for a monster. I'm guessing Blops are kind of like Slimes in the Dragon Quest games, the easy enemies that you beat to learn how to play.

Dr. Mario and Puzzle League - Released in 1995. A port of the 1990 Nintendo-developed NES game Dr. Mario bundled with the Intelligent Systems-developed Puzzle League, a pair of puzzle games. In the former, you play as the titular doctor, who uses multi-colored vitamins to destroy viruses. In the latter, you must form rows or columns of three identical blocks to keep them from filling up a well. What reviews I did find heaped praise on this compilation. 

One of the first games I remember playing a lot was Tetris back in the day. And I think I did play a little bit of the original Dr. Mario back in the day. I remember doing so, but not exactly when. If you like puzzle games, these are a fun option. 

Out of these four, I think I'm most excited to play Wario Land and Dr. Mario/Puzzle League. Those sound like the best games in the batch. I do enjoy a good RPG, so I may also give Sword of Hope a shot as well. It's nice that these games are being brought here not just for the people who played them in the past, but that these games can get new fans. And I hope they do. Thanks for reading this blog entry! If you liked it, show it off! Take care of yourselves and each other! If you like what I write and want to give my blog some additional support, please make a donation to my Ko-fi! See you next time!

Kung Fu Soccer Teaser, My Thoughts

In 2001, the Hong Kong film Shaolin Soccer was released. Starring, co-written, and directed by Stephen Chow, the film told the tale of a group of Shaolin monks who must bring their kung fu skills to the soccer pitch. The film was Stephen Chow's international breakout, and it has been regarded as a cult classic. I myself have seen the film, and it's pretty darn good. And now after over 25 years, we're getting the spiritual sequel: Kung Fu Soccer! This film tells the tale of a women's soccer team as they fight to win a tournament! Let's look at the trailer!

Whoa, she kicked that ball so hard, it got people singing!

That lady nearly killed that bird!

Whoever kicked that ball needs more practice! They nearly knocked a whole passenger plane out of the sky! You want that on your conscience, pal?!

Well, I can safely say that I will enjoy this movie. I really liked Shaolin Soccer, so I can see this one being just as enjoyable. Considering it's Stephen Chow, I'm expecting some hilarity and heart! Thanks for reading this blog entry! If you liked it, show it off! Take care of yourselves and each other! If you like what I write and want to give this blog some additional support, please make a donation to my Ko-fi! See you next time!

Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls - Samurai Outriders Trailer, My Thoughts

Way back in...June 2025...wow, one year ago, I took a look at the trailer for an upcoming fighting game called Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls. Developed by Japanese company Arc System Works and released by Sony, this fighting game would have a unique tag-team systemin which you start with one character and an assist character, then unlock others by satisfying certain conditions. Over time, other trailers would reveal several of the fighting "teams" that can be used in the game: The Unbreakable X-Men, the Amazing Guardians, the Fighting Avengers, and the Knights of Doom. But there was still one last team to be revealed. A team that employs some of the...darker-edged characters from the Marvel Universe...and one goofy merc with a dirty mouth, so keep that in mind when watching this. This is the introduction of the fifth team of Tokon: the Samurai Outriders! I do want to warn you, there is some slight NSFW language in this trailer. You'll see why. Now then, let's look at the trailer!

Man, the Promoter really loves her job. Which makes sense. After all, she is an Elder of the Universe. And many of them have a thing they love doing. Can't be an Elder of the Universe if you do not love what you do.

Peni Parker: So, we're just supposed to...stand here and look cool?
Ms. Marvel: Yup. You're the newest character here. You'll get used to it.

Man, Robbie is beating Magik like he owes her money!

I wouldn't be surprised if Magik does owe him money but just refuses to pay up. The X-Men can be jerks.

Hey, Blade! That's cool that he's here! I don't think he's even been in a Marvel fighting game! 

I am somewhat not surprised to see Loki amongst this bunch here. The character has been pushed in a more anti-hero direction in recent years, both in the comics and the MCU. 

Have you though, Loki? Really?

I mean, even when he's on the good guys' side...yeah. He's called the God of Lies for a reason.

Loki's been wanting to do that since Hulk smashed him into Avengers Tower back in 2012.

Yup, that's how Deadpool would show up, alright?

...did he just punch the Incredible Hulk in the nards?

Wade, buddy! Put your butt away! For the love of everything! 

And Wade with another Mortal Kombat reference! 

Moon Knight is going to eviscerate Wade when he finds out that the Mouthy Merc stole his line. That was why I warned about the NSFW language. 

And he broke the TV! Nice work, Wade!

And the Deadpool Corps! These game-makers know ball, as the kids say. 

Samurai Outriders is a cool name. 

Well, this looks like another really cool team. I really think this game is going to be a blast. Worth getting a PS5 for! I like this team. It's surprisingly unique with its mix of characters. I hope people have a lot of fun with this group! Thanks for reading this blog entry! If you liked, show it off! Take care of yourselves and each other! If you like what I write and want to give this blog some additional support, please make a donation to my Ko-fi! See you next time!

Spider-Man: Brand New Day Trailer #2, My Thoughts

The Mighty Marvel Cinematic Universe marches on! Back in March, I took a look at the first trailer for the upcoming film Spider-Man: Brand New Day. The 38th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Tom Holland reprises his role as Peter Parker/Spider-Man, struggling with his life after the events of No Way Home. It's also the first series of Spider-Man films to get a fourth entry. Let's look at the new trailer!

Alright, about time we saw the Scorpion!

As I said before, Peter's likely dealing with his version of The Other here.

I like to think that somehow in some unconscious way, Ned and MJ are still aware of Peter. 

Organic webs. Yup, like in The Other. And also as a nod to Tobey Maguire's Spider-Man. 

I think Banner had that apparatus in She-Hulk: Attorney at Law as well. I'll have to rewatch it to check. That was a fun show. My favorite episode is "The Retreat". 

That's an interesting point Bruce makes? For all we know, Peter's powers are naturally evolving. He's unique in this universe. There's no one else with powers like him, and he's growing older, so who knows what this could lead to?

Heh heh. Smile through the pain, Pete. 

I know that there's a popular fan theory that Sadie Sink is playing Jean Grey (mainly because she's a redhead), but that theory makes no sense to me. Why would they introduce her in a Spider-Man movie, especially since we're going to see members of the Fox X-Men in Avengers: Doomsday? 

I've had a couple theories myself on who she's playing. Personally, I think she's playing Miss Arrow. I mean, that would make sense. This film is clearly drawing from the Other storyline, and it would make some sense. Or she's likely playing Ana Soria, the Spider-Queen. She was the main antagonist of the "Spider-Island" storyline, and it would explain how she was able to mess with so many people's heads. And again, the dialogue here implies that Peter is the only one who can sense her. He's not a telepath, so presumably he can sense her through his Spider-Sense. 

Also, another reason I don't believe this is Jean Grey? What's the motive? Why would Jean Grey be after Spider-Man? Makes no sense.

"Yeah, Ned! Because having a load of articles about Spider-Man pinned on a wall is totally a sign of a sane healthy mind!" 

Ooooh, the awkward levels are sky high right now.

Again, I am hoping to God that's Paul Rabin, because the meltdowns from Spider-Twitter will be glorious.

Ohhhhh, dear. Bruce's apparatus is broken.

I think The Other is behind this. Would make sense. The Hulk isn't exactly a starter boss, to use video game terms. When angry, he's outright invincible. 

I wonder how this Hand relates to the Hand in the Netflix Defenders stuff. 

God, that web effect was so cool!

Stretching before your workouts is always a good thing. Don't want to accidentally pull something.

Well, I have to say, I am excited. I've really enjoyed all three of the MCU Spider-Man movies so far, so I think number four is going to be just as good. I am curious as to the Hand's involvement here. Maybe they're patsies? Who knows? I'm excited to find out! Thanks for reading this blog entry! If you liked it, show it off! Take care of yourselves and each other! If you like what I write and want to give this blog some additional support, please make a donation to my Ko-fi! See you next time!

Tales of Eternia Remastered Announcement Trailer, My Thoughts

Back in 2000, Namco developed and released the game Tales of Eternia for the original PlayStation...in Japan. It would come to North America a year later. The third main entry in the Tales series, it told the, well...tale of young hunter Reid Herschel, a young man who has to prevent a massive cataclysmic event known as the Great Fall. Basically, he has to stop two planets from colliding. Good luck with that, kiddo. And now, it's coming to the Switch 2! Let's look at the trailer!

Now, I know you're thinking "Wait, 20 years?! Wasn't this game released in 2000?" Well, yes. But it was released for the PlayStation Portable in 2005 in Japan, 2006 in Australasia and Europe. This will not only be the first official re-release in America, but the first time this game was officially released on a non-Sony console.

"Here I am! ROCK YOU LIKE A HURRICANE!"

Man, they really could use He-Man's help right now.

Did somebody throw Skittles at them? That gives a whole new meaning to the phrase "Taste the Rainbow!"

I have to agree with Big Eyes there. I'd rather try and fail than not try at all.

Well, looks like we got quite an eclectic cast of characters here. That's always good to have in an RPG. 

Quality of life improvements are always good. It shows that they want to make the game more fun and enjoyable. After, this game is 25 years old. There's going to be some things that don't age well.

Oh, those effects RULE! They are so cool!

Well, this looks like another potential add to my Nintendo Switch library. You can tell I love RPGs, right? I've never played a Tales game before, so I hope this one is really good and is a lot of fun. Man, I really got to catch up on my other ones. Thanks for reading this blog entry! If you liked it, show it off! Take care of yourselves and each other! If you like what I write and want to give this blog some additional support, please make a donation to my Ko-fi! See you next time!

Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee Remastered Trailer, My Thoughts

In 2002, the game Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee was released for the Nintendo GameCube and the original X-Box in 2003. Developed by WayForward Technologies and Pipeworks Software, the game was a fighter starring the various monsters from the history of the Godzilla films up to that point. In the game's single-player adventure mode, the various monsters are made into slaves of the alien race known as the Vortaak (an alien race created for the game), except for the monster you choose to play as in a plot to conquer the Earth. 

The game had several modes, including Destruction Mode (in which you destroy as much of a city as you can for points), and Melee Mode (two to four players can fight as particular monsters). The game received mixed to positive reviews, praised for its many game modes, but criticized for its gameplay. 

It has been announced that a remastered version of the game will be coming to the Nintendo Switch 2, X-Box Series X, and for the first time, Microsoft Windows and PlayStation 5. The game isn't a simple porting, as Pipeworks rebuilt the game with Unreal Engine 5. Hey, rebuilding a game from the ground up? This is an opportunity! Maybe make some much-needed improvements? Bring the graphics up to par with modern games? Maybe add some new quality of life features to help make the game more fun and address issues of the past version. Who knows? Let's look at the trailer!

You ever have one of those days when you just want to throw someone you hate at a building? Godzilla's entire life is like that. And he can throw people into buildings. And he does throw his fellow monsters into buildings. Basically, he throws people at buildings all the time. I mean, who's going to stop him: Michael McDoesn'tExist?

And if he's in the mood, he'll throw a building at a monster! Changing it up every now and then is a good thing.

I've got to admit, all the cities look really good. I do think the color scheme is a bit washed out and dull, though. 

Yes, you can fight your friends online! That seems to be a requirement of fighting games these days, huh?

Sometimes, you just want to break things. Good thing this game has a mode for that. 

Yeah, this needs context. You see, the GameCube and Game Boy Advance versions of this game would be released in 2002. A year later, it was ported to the original X-Box. The X-Box version had enhanced graphics, a couple new levels, the Destruction Mode for single-players, and an additional monster: The incarnation of MechaGodzilla from the 2002 film Godzilla Against MechaGodzilla (as the film was released in Japan after the GameCube version came out)...yet the footage is of the first version of MechaGodzilla from the 1974 film Godzilla vs. MechaGodzilla. Yeah, for context, this is what the 2002 MechaGodzilla looked like:

Yup. That's an oopsie.

I admit, I've never played the original version of this game, but I do want to give this remaster a try. It looks like it'll be a lot of fun. Nothing more enjoyable sometimes that playing as a monster throwing buildings at another monster sometimes...or throwing other monsters at buildings. Thanks for reading this blog entry! If you liked it, show it off! Take care of yourselves and each other! If you like what I write and want to give this blog some additional support, please make a donation to my Ko-Fi! See you next time!  

Marvel Tokon: Knights of Doom Trailer, My Thoughts

That's right, folks! We got a new trailer for the newest Marvel fighting game: Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls. As we've seen before, you can form "teams" from the playable roster. We've looked at each of the previously announced teams beforehand: The Unbreakable X-Men, the Amazing Guardians, and the Fighting Avengers.

First of all, I have to say this. I love the name of the group. It sounds like a metal band. The Knights of Doom. And it does fit the mad Latverian monarch. After all, he is a king, and kings are protected by knights.

We get the first real look at the game's version of the main antagonist of this game: the Champion of the Universe. I get they wanted to update his look, but I personally don't think it fits him. Especially the face. You see, the Champion's whole thing is that he desires to be the very best hand-to-hand fighter in the universe. I think he looks too much like a pretty boy here. I think he should look more pugnacious. Have some scars, a sign that his nose was broken. I do not doubt that there are people who do professionally fight that are handsome, I just think that a pretty boy face doesn't fit the Champion.

Yeah, that is very in character for Doom. Doom would say that to the Champion. He would claim he is Earth's greatest champion. I mean, if you all read my reviews of the 1984 Secret Wars maxiseries all the way back in 2019, then you'd all know much brass he has. 

We all know about the rivalry between Doom and the Fantastic Four (Reed Richards in particular), but Doom and Iron Man have crossed paths in the comics a couple times. Kudos to them shouting that out. 

Magneto is an interesting choice for the team. I can see Doom...somewhat sympathizing? with Magneto over being part of a minority that has been historically persecuted (Doom is Roma in the comics, and Magneto is Jewish). Still, I wonder why Mags would make a deal with a non-mutant like Doom. 

Thing is, Doom likes to say he is a man of his word, so I can imagine him keeping his word to Magneto, even out of the practical desire to avoid crossing him. 

Ah, the Green Goblin. Arguably Spider-Man's worst foe. He's never been in a fighting game before. 

Same with Carnage. Although he was an antagonist in a beat-em-up in the past. Make a nice change from Venom at least. 

I can't help but wonder how this bunch would work together. I can imagine Magneto thinking Norman and Cletus are little more than rabid animals. And I can also imagine Doom would have insurance policies against the others just in case. 

I have to admit, the Knights of Doom is one of the more unique teams in Tokon. I would have personally changed out Green Goblin for another villain, though. Yeah, the Goblin is one of Spider-Man's major villains, but so is Carnage. But otherwise that, this is a neat team. Thanks for reading this blog entry! if you like it, show it off! Take care of yourselves and each other! If you like what I write and want to give this blog some additional support, please make a donation to my Ko-fi! See you next time!

X-Men '97 Season 2 Trailer, My Thoughts

In November 2021, it was announced that the 1990s X-Men animated series would get a revival/continuation: X-Men '97! Created by Beau DeMayo, the series would see some voice actors reprise their roles from the original series, like Cal Dodd as Wolverine, Lenore Zann as Rogue, and George Buza as Beast. It continued on the adventures of the X-Men as they had to deal with new changes, and a new threat. 

The series premiered in March 2024 with the first two episodes together, and the rest of the ten episodes released weekly. The series received much critical and fan acclaim. Work began on a second season in July 2022 and was completed in March 2024, set to be released in July 2026. Let's look at the trailer!

Nice detail with the Disney+ logo forming a circle with the hole there. 

I wonder what the hole is in though? It's too small to be a mountain. Is it a hill? What is that thing?

Yeah, poor Rogue is still dealing with what happened to Gambit in Season 1. Stuff like that takes time to get over. 

You know Magneto is trying hard when it comes to resisting the urge to take over that village.

Hey, Rama-Tut! 

Makes sense he'd be here. In the comics, he ruled Ancient Egypt for a while. 

I do find it ironic that the X-Men will seemingly help play a hand in Apocalypse's rise to power and bring him down at his peak. 

So, this show is set right in the 1990s? That...makes sense. The show is very 1990s. 

Hey, Lorna Dane! That means X-Factor will be here as well.

Logan: "Jeez, Morph! Time and place, bub!" 

Jean making psionic versions of Wolverine's claws rules. And I noticed she and Scott wearing the Frank Quitely costumes from Grant Morrison's run. 

The operatic rendition of the theme is cool.

Storm controlling fire?! Okay, I call shenanigans!

Bishop: "We're going to bring them back...in POG form!" 

Wait, Exodus?! And DANGER?! Yeah, the X-Men are screwed.

Cable: 🎵"Doo doo doo, polishin' my gun. Doo doo doo, Gonna be able to see my face in it, doo doo doo..." 🎵

Nice to see we'll get to see Nightcrawler swashbuckling again. And it's also nice to see that he found time to get himself ordained as a priest. Also, him facing Exodus is clever. Nightcrawler is a man of great faith, and Exodus grows stronger the more people have faith in him and the stronger said faith is. 

Heh heh, I love that homage to Wolverine #1 (September 1982). Fun fact, the 1980s Wolverine mini-series was the second mini-series ever done by Marvel. The first was Contest of Champions. Although I do wonder how Wolverine got the adamantium in his claws back. Maybe Apocalypse has something to do with it.

Well, I'm excited for this. I loved the first season, so I am ready to see more adventures of arguably the most iconic version of the X-Men. I cannot wait to watch this! I hope Rogue finds some peace, and it seems like Cable will get to grow up with his parents after all. Awww. I think this season will be exciting and enjoyable to watch! Thanks for reading this blog entry! If you liked it, show it off! Take care of yourselves and each other! If you like what I write and want to give my blog some additional support, please make a donation to my Ko-fi! See you next time!

Marvel Cosmic Invasion Cyclops and The Thing DLC Trailer, My Thoughts

Way back in March of 2025, I took a look at the announcement trailer of a Marvel beat-em-up game that I got excited to play: Marvel Cosmic Invasion. In this game, you play as a variety of Marvel's superheroes against the insectoid army of the Negative Zone-born menace known as Annihilus. In the months since, several trailers revealed the full roster. We started with Spider-Man (Peter Parker), Captain America (Steve Rogers), Nova (Richard Rider), Quasar (Phyla-Vell), Storm, Wolverine (James "Logan" Howlett), and Venom (Eddie Brock). A pretty good mix of characters. But that was not all the playable roster. Over time, a series of trailers revealed the actual full roster: She-Hulk (Jennifer Walters) and Rocket Raccoon, Silver Surfer and Beta Ray Bill, Black Panther (T'Challa) and Cosmic Ghost Rider (Frank Castle), and Iron Man (Tony Stark) and Phoenix (Jean Grey). 

But even then, that was not all. DotEmu and Tribute has some DLC ready for us, increasing the playable roster to seventeen characters: The X-Men's resident master of the optic blasts: Cyclops, and the ever-lovin' blue-eyed idol of millions, the Thing! Let's look at the trailer!

I admit, it's nice to see the Thing in this game. I've read my fair share of 70s comics with Ben, and he is just a fun character. 

I can imagine that bug is going to have one heck of a headache, ha ha. 

Personally, I would have chosen Sue Storm-Richards/The Invisible Woman for the Fantastic Four representation. Or Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic. Sue's forcefields would be handy for blocking blows. And Reed's stretching powers would have allowed a nice nod to Battletoads. Imagine Reed's foot becoming a big spiky boot when he kicks.

I do admit, Sue could do the same with her forcefields. 

I imagine that Cyclops was included because of the popularity the character has gained thanks to X-Men '97. I mean, I get it. As a fan of the show, Cyclops was pretty awesome. 

When you need bugs bulldozed, Ben Grimm is your man.

Is that Ray Chase voicing Cyclops here? It sounds like him. 

There are four X-Men in this game. Can we please have some love for the Inhumans in this game? I mean, the Royal Family's been all but forgotten by Marvel recently. I'd love to play as Medusa tossing around bugs with her hair, or Karnak throwing some martial arts hands and feet around. Heck, Black Bolt and his sonic powers would be cool!

Wait, was that ben in his 80s black singlet?! Nice deep cut!

I like the dialogue between Scott and Jean. 

"It's on sight!" Get it? Because Scott can blast anything he looks at? 

Well, this is cool! I love that this game has DLC. I hope we get lots more characters and maybe even some new levels and stuff like that. The Marvel Universe has a wealth of characters and places that can be used for this game! So much potential! They can keep this game going for years! I doubt they will, but I hope they find a way. Thanks for reading this blog entry! If you liked it, show it off! Take care of yourselves and each other! If you like what I write and want to give this blog some additional support, please make a donation to my Ko-fi! See you next time!

Marvel Tokon: Fighting Avengers Trailer, My Thoughts

All the way back in June 2025, I gave my thoughts on the reveal trailer of the Arc System Works-developed and Sony-published fighting game called Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls. The game works by starting you out with one character (and an assist), and you unlock more characters by satisfying certain conditions. The reveal trailer showed a basic roster, but you can actually form "teams" with even more characters. Two of these teams have been revealed so far: The Unbreakable X-Men and the Amazing Guardians. And now a third team has been revealed: The Fighting Avengers! Let's look at the trailer!

Ah, so we get another hint of the big reason these fights are happening. The Champion is challenging Earth's heroes. Like the Promoter, the Champion is another Elder of the Universe.

Created by writer Tom DeFalco and artist Ron Wilson, Tryco Slatterus first appeared in Marvel Two-in-One Annual #7 (1982). Like his fellow Elders, he has a unique interest/obsession. In his case, it's being the best hand-to-hand combatant in the universe. So, it makes sense he'd be the main antagonist of a fighting game.

So, it's implied that Storm, Spider-Man, Ghost Rider, and Doctor Doom are the leaders of the other teams. Doom is a monarch, so it fits. Same with Storm, she's led the X-Men in the comics. It is funny seeing Peter and Robbie in such roles, but Peter predates a lot of these characters if we're going by publishing order. Peter's seen a lot. 

It's so nice hearing Brian Bloom voicing Captain America again. He voiced the man in the cartoon Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes, and in various video games like Marvel Vs. Capcom 3. I can see why he's often called on to voice the Sentinel of Liberty. His voice is perfect for Cap. 

Again, I love Iron Man's suit in this game. I can imagine he'd create one inspired by Gundam. Nothing against Josh Taylor, but I'd love to hear Eric Loomis voice Iron Man again. I really love Earth's Mightiest Heroes. 

So, the events of Planet Hulk happened in this universe? Maybe a little differently, as Cap was not involved in that original story. Also, loving Hulk's look here. Looks like he's been ruling the Savage Land.

Heh heh, Hulk smacking around Wolverine. People think of the Thing as one of Hulk's big rivals, but don't forget Hulk and Wolverine had their own fair share of tussles over the years. Heck, Wolverine debuted in Hulk's comic! Yes, Hulk and Ben have brawled before then, but Wolverine has his fair share of Hulk brawls. 

Well, this is another surprise. Shuri as the Black Panther. I'm guessing this is a nod to the MCU. The dialogue seems to imply that Shuri and Storm are friends in this universe. That's...actually nice. If there's one big thing I dislike about current X-Men comics, it's that they have seemingly no non-mutant allies and friends anymore. I mean, Jonathan Hickman and Pepe Larraz made Moira MacTaggert into a mutant. I dislike that retcon, as it cut the X-Men further away from humanity. 

And we also get Wakanda as a stage. I'm hoping we get Avengers Mansion as a stage as well. Hey, if the X-Men get to brawl in their home, so do the Avengers. 

Well, this is a cool team. I'm a bit of an Avengers fanboy. Heck, anyone who's read this blog likely knows of my love of the Kurt Busiek/George Perez Avengers run is one of the things that got me into comics as a medium. I have to admit, if I could play this game, I'd be hard-pressed to choose between this team or the Amazing Guardians. Thanks for reading this blog entry! If you liked it, show it off! Take care of yourselves and each other! See you next time!

Coyote vs. Acme Trailer, My Thoughts

In 1949, the short Fast and Furry-ous debuted in theaters. This short debuted the iconic Looney Toons characters known as Wile E. Coyote and the Road Runner. Created by animator Chuck Jones and writer/storyboard artist Michael Maltese, the two would star in nearly 50 shorts, nearly all of them focusing on the ever-hungry Wile E. in the deserts trying to catch the Road Runner so he can have him for dinner. As the dinner, if you didn't get it. Often, the coyote would use devices from the ACME Corporation in his attempts to catch the Road Runner, said devices always backfiring in a humorous manner.

The two were created to parody the likes of Tom and Jerry, but they would become beloved figures in their own right. They would appear in other projects with their fellow Looney Toons, like in movies, comics and video games. In fact, Wile E. and Road Runner crossed over with Lobo, of all characters, in a series of crossover comics with characters from the DC Universe. This was rather easy to pull off because both DC Comics and the Looney Toons are owned by Warner Bros. 

In 2018, it was announced that development had begun on a new live-action animation hybrid film called Coyote vs. Acme. Inspired by the Ian Frazier-penned 1990 New Yorker story of the same name, it tells the tale of Wile E. Coyote suing the ACME Corporation for allegedly selling him faulty products. 

Filmed from March to May 2022 in New Mexico, Warner Bros. had originally shelved the film in November 2023 after completion f6or the purpose of getting a $30 million tax write-off. This announcement resulted in backlash towards the studio from other creatives and fans, forcing WB to shop around for distributors of the film. In 2025, Ketchup Entertainment would get the distribution right, and now we're here.

Directed by Dave Green, the film stars Will Forte as Wile E. Coyote's lawyer in his lawsuit against Acme, John Cena as ACME's lawyer, Lana Condor as the niece of Will Forte's character...as well as a whole bunch of Looney Tunes characters. Let's look at the trailer!

You'd think after all these years, Wile E. would finally get the hint and get stuff from another company. What, is ACME stuff that cheap?

Ooh, that explosion will leave a mark!

To be fair, I can't blame Wile E. for holding the sign up. Even his patience has limits.

Yeah, Wile E. Don't give the prosecution ammunition. 

...how was being hit by a train from a pattern he painted his fault? No seriously, that was in one of the old cartoons. 

He had one payment left on that car! Come on!

I got a chuckle out of John Cena's face while gripping Tweety.

Foghorn Leghorn as the CEO of ACME and John Cena wearing a Stetson. Comedy gold. 

That was likely the closest he has ever gotten to catching the Road Runner.

I will laugh so hard if all of that was just for Bugs to make a short cameo.

As a fan of the Looney Tunes cartoons growing up, this trailer makes me feel like a kid again. I am so happy that this film will get to be seen, and you bet I will be there to watch it! It looks like it will be a great time! Thanks for reading this blog entry! If you liked it, show it off! Take care of yourselves and each other!  If you like what I write and want to give my blog some additional support, please make a donation to my Ko-fi! See you next time!

Street Fighter Trailer, My Thoughts

Some time back, I wrote about the teaser for the upcoming new live-action Street Fighter movie. I thought it looked like some harmless silly fun. So, let's travel back to the wild year of 1993 and look at this trailer!

Yeah, I don't see the point of this whole "Trailer Starts Now" thing. I mean, why is it here? I know it's a tiny little thing, only like, a couple seconds, but I just wonder why they do it. More curious than annoyed, to be honest.

Chun-Li: "LOOK AT MY NICE NEW BOOT!" She's very proud of her nice new boots. Can't wait to kick some butt in them.

I get the impression that Shadaloo here is kind of like Ancient Rome, a beautiful place with a very dark underbelly.

The people love them some Ken Masters. 

I think it would be nice if the trailer used a song from 1993. People were making music then.

I think Chun-Li is working undercover here. She's the one gathering the fighters and is hoping to have them help her take down M. Bison. Would fit her motivation in the games. 

I love that they let Guile have his wild flattop. 👍 

Ooh, El Fuerte did not have a good time in the ring that day.

Ken wasting perfectly good champagne. I mean for other people to enjoy, I'm a teetotaler. I do not drink alcoholic beverages.

Yeah, I'm betting Ken's arc is his rediscovering his fighter roots or something like that. Classic story, nothing wrong with that.

Heh heh, he's beating up a car. Another game reference.

Okay, now we got an actual 90s song here. And even better? "What's Up?" was actually released...in 1993!

Dear goodness, the size of that lad! Where did they find this guy? And what does he eat?!

Heh heh, you can tell Ryu and Ken are bros. Either that, or Ryu really owes Ken some money.

Well, the tournament is being held by M. Bison. Of course it's not going to be on the complete up-and-up.

Again, it would have been so funny if Cody Rhodes screamed "AMERICAAAAAAAAA!" as he gave Vega that Flash Kick.

Chun Li: "Oh yeah? Well, everyone goes crazy over your butt, but I don't see why!" 

Getting pile-driven into a car. That would SUCK.

...yeah, I'll be doing a lot of that during the movie.

Acknowledge Akuma. ☝

BLANKA.

Guile ain't lyin'.

AND WE HAVE A HADOUKEN! I love that it seemingly takes time to charge, like it's something that requires a lot of effort and concentration to pull off. You have to be good to pull off that move. 

Well, I was excited for this movie before, but now I am even more hyped! This film is going to be a fun time at the theater. I can't wait to watch this movie! Thanks for reading this blog entry! If you liked it, show it off! Take care of yourselves and each other! If you enjoy what I write and want to give this blog a little additional support, please make a donation to my Ko-fi! See you next time!

The Punisher: One Last Kill Teaser, My Thoughts

The Mighty Marvel Cinematic Universe marches on! The franchise has touched various forms of media, including, naturally television. And coming soon is another television special starring Marvel's resident lethal vigilante: Frank Castle, the Punisher.

The Punisher: One Last Kill has Jon Bernthal reprise his role as Castle. He's previously appeared in various other Marvel series: Daredevil, Daredevil: Born Again, and will also appear in the film Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Bernthal also co-wrote the special with the director, Reinaldo Marcus Green. This upcoming special will see Frank Castle finally try to live a life of peace, but sadly as it goes into these things, Frankie will have to pick up his guns one final time. This special also will introduce iconic Punisher villainess Ma Gnucci to the MCU. Let's look at the trailer!

Bill, he's busy meditating. Come back later. 

That'll hurt.

I get the feeling Frank's an atheist.

Frank forgot to shut off the tub faucet again!

"OH GOD FIRE HURTS WHY DID I LET MY LEGS GET ABLAZE I NEED WATER!"

Frank loves his new hoodie and he wanted to show it off. I don't blame him. It's a nice hoodie. Seems cozy.

Remember kids, if your assault rifle has no bullets left in it, you can still beat up people with it.

"Man, I can rock a hoodie!" 

The bulletproof vest with the skull painted on it always looks cool. It's always nice to see it in live action.

I think this will be a fun watch. While the Punisher is not exactly my favorite of Marvel's menagerie of mayhem-fighters, I have enjoyed Jon Bernthal's performance as Frank, and I have enjoyed some comic stories with him in it. I also am curious as to how Ma Gnucci will be portrayed here...and if she'll end up mauled by polar bears like in the comics. Thanks for reading this blog entry! If you liked it, show it off! Take care of yourselves and each other! See you next time!