DC needs to strike at a Superman game while the iron is hot

With an upcoming film set to redefine the DC Universe through the cinematic medium alongside a growing legacy of well-received shows launched in recent years, the Superman the franchise is poised to become an even more important pillar of Warner Bros.' future. Despite this newfound momentum, Batman remains a much more important figure in the gaming industry after many successful adaptations, and a new Superman video game is conspicuously absent. There's been no word of an upcoming project, and failing to capitalize on Superman's growing status in the current climate of DC's revitalization would be a missed opportunity.

Rocksteady's success Arkham titles have granted Batman a rare level of commercial success for superheroes in games. In stark contrast, the few Superman games have historically struggled to achieve the same mainstream longevity, with the Metropolis setting taking a backseat to Gotham City. After the news from Warner Bros.' subsequent financial losses Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League AND MultiVersusboth featuring limited roles, it may finally be the right time for a game about Kal-El to find the success the company needs more than ever.

The next Superman film is set to define DC's legacy moving forward

The center of a new attempt at a cinematic universe

Under the direction of James Gunn, the next Superman the film will mean a complete reset for DC as it moves beyond the DCEU into a new era for future films. This reboot centers Superman as the protagonist of the universe's pantheon of heroes and will presumably more closely match the lighter tone of his comics. This will certainly spark more interest in the character, bringing his adventures to life in a format that will reach millions of viewers and make him truly culturally relevant again.

Other media are preparing for a film

In recent years, Superman it has also more quietly gained exposure through TV series that have re-established its appeal with modern audiences. Superman and Lois on The CW found success by distinguishing itself from the Arrowverse and humanizing the character's double life. In the meantime, My Adventures with Supermanan anime-style series, reinvented the story of Clark Kent in a youth format, further demonstrating the character's appeal across mediums and demographics.

There's never been a better time for a new Superman game

Overcoming the difficulties of adapting Superman to the game

Historically, it's been a struggle to bring Superman into a compelling gaming experience due to his immense level of canon power. Past attempts, how Superman 64it infamously relied on artificial constraints like the infamous flying circle challenges instead of meaningful encounters with its villains. Unlike how Batman thrives in ground, street-level combat, Superman's near-invincibility presents obstacles that contradict traditional game design. In keeping with his ethos, however, a title focused on the everyday heroism of saving lives while managing the expectations of a double life as Clark Kent could truly be in line with the character.

Modern technology can push the limits of the fantasy of superhero power

It's been hard to imagine a title that captures the full scope of having been the protector of Metropolis in the past, but precedents have since been set for massive cities populated by the likes of GTA AND Cyberpunk 2077. If a future Superman video game essentially takes the direction of a crime simulator, it might be able to find its place as a highly successful open-world title that can stand up to the darker tone of the Arkham titles. A game of this magnitude, if timed with the raised profile of the Superman movie release, could solidify its place in gaming as Batman's equal.