Coinciding with the blockbuster release of Marvel Studios’ “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” the nation of Wakanda is joining forces in “MARVEL Strike Force.” With the latest Black Panther-themed content, a new roster of Wakandans fight alongside the most powerful and iconic Marvel Super Heroes and villains to safeguard their nation - and the world - from lingering threats in the multiverse.
In celebration of this epic addition to “MARVEL Strike Force,” we sat down with the creative team at Boundless Entertainment, a Scopely Studio, to learn more about the process of bringing Wakanda to life in a beloved mobile game, and how players can go deeper into the world of Wakanda with this new update.
What excites you most about bringing Wakandan characters to “MARVEL Strike Force?”
Drew Fletcher, Associate Game Designer: The exciting thing about bringing Wakandans to the game is having a piece of the culture in “MARVEL Strike Force.” It is an amazing feeling having a team dedicated to the wonderful kingdom ruled by T'Challa. Everything from their moves to their victory poses gives the player a taste of Wakanda. The most important part is being able to show strong Black men and women of Wakanda in our game. Wakanda Forever!
What are some of the key considerations in translating these beloved superheroes from the silver screen to a mobile game experience?
Sean Dugan, Creative Director: When we bring a Marvel character into the game, it's incredibly important that we consider who the character is and what makes them special so that we meet the expectations of Marvel fans. A character's look needs to be recognizable but we also want their moves and abilities to evoke the character's iconic moments from comics, movies and shows. It's crucial that the game abilities of a character reflect their powers.
You expect Black Panther to build up to a vibranium-enhanced shockwave attack against all his foes which is different from how Shuri uses her tech to protect and keep her team going. M'Baku challenges his enemies and shrugs off the hits while Okoye steps in and fights alongside her allies. Finally, we always want to bring a character's personality to life through the touches like how they idle in combat or celebrate their victories. Black Panther (1MM) and Nakia both celebrate a Wakandan victory - but each in their own unique way.
What can “MARVEL Strike Force” players and Black Panther fans expect from this new release?
Elizabeth De La O, Animation Artist: Our players will not only be able to see their favorite Wakandans again, but they’ll have the chance to interact with them and create their own storylines for characters like Nakia and Black Panther. Players can expect exciting battles among Wakandans, and will appreciate the amazing artwork and animations that the studio is known for. Players will also have a unique opportunity to recruit the first panther, Black Panther 1MM BC, and witness his powers alongside Nakia!
What do newcomers like Black Panther (1MM) and Nakia add to the “MARVEL Strike Force” experience?
Matt Danuser-Grant, Principal Game Designer: Black Panther (1MM) and Nakia are joined by three existing Wakandan characters (Black Panther, Okoye, and Shuri) to form the new War Dogs team. The War Dogs are one of the most powerful teams in the game, especially while attacking in Alliance War! They are fast and fun to use, constantly gaining speed bar and taking additional turns if used strategically. But that's just their game mechanics - they also have some of the most jaw-dropping visuals I've ever seen! Notably, Black Panther (1MM)'s Ultimate ability may be the first time a game has given us a glimpse into the Ancestral Plane.
How does the team honor the amazing source material of “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” while delivering something new to players?
Stefano Terry, Associate Game Designer: “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” is a beautiful meditation on grief, the anger that comes with loss, and healing, but is also a celebration of life, the impact one person can have on others, and purpose. The MSF team has really worked hard to try and capture that celebration with the new Wakandan War Dog's team, in particular new additions Nakia and Black Panther 1MM BC. These two powerful characters highlight both the pride, skill, and history of Wakanda that hopefully players enjoy!
Jump into “MARVEL Strike Force” today to explore and interact with the World of Wakanda!