Marvel’s Avengers Won’t Change Its Character Designs Despite Criticism

Undoubtedly one of the biggest reveals to come out of this year’s E3 was Marvel’s Avengers. As we had all hoped, Crystal Dynamics wowed onlookers with a stunning presentation and the promise of a grand adventure, but not all were happy with what was shown. In terms of visual fidelity, it’s irrefutable that Marvel’s illustrious franchise looks gorgeous in video game form, at least from the pre-alpha cinematic shown, but as far as character designs go, opinions start taking a turn for the worse.

In wake of the world’s first look at Captain America, Iron Man, Hulk and the rest of the gang, initial reactions to their facial and outfit designs have ranged from mixed to outright scornful. The blanket of negativity doesn’t quite cover every member, though. Hulk, for example, looks more or less identical to his previous incarnations. But the rest? Not so much.

While Crystal has clearly intended to put their own spin on each hero while also retaining familiarities from the films, the end result is strange, to say the least. Steve Rogers’s design, in particular, has received a right hammering on social media, with one fan likening his visage to that of a Call of Duty character. We’re not sure about that, but Mr. Rogers certainly does look a little iffy. If you were hoping for the outrage to prompt a series of redesigns, however, don’t hold your breath.

Speaking to IGN, Crystal Dynamics’ creative director Shaun Escayg told the site that while “We are always listening to, and welcome feedback from our community,” there are currently “no plans to change our character designs.” Ouch.

That’s not to say that what we saw at E3 and what we’ll get with the final product next year will be identical, though. “The trailer is showing pre-alpha gameplay footage,” Escayg continues, meaning the “level of detail and overall polish of the character models will absolutely continue to improve as we get close to launch.”

Tell us, what’s your take on all this? Do you see nothing wrong with Marvel’s Avengers current character designs, or are you one such individual campaigning for change? Let us know in the comments below.