Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls set for 2026 release on PS5, Steam, and Epic Games store

4v4 tag team format redefines Marvel fighting games

Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls introduces a new 4v4 tag team format to the genre, offering players a fresh take on competitive gameplay. Arc System Works has focused on allowing players to master a single character while still participating in dynamic team-based combat. Characters can be summoned mid-battle for support or combination attacks, creating a multi-character fighting experience unlike traditional 2v2 or 3v3 systems.

The system supports both traditional and simplified input methods, making the title accessible to newcomers while still offering the depth needed for high-level play. According to game director Kazuto Sekine, the team emphasized a balance between learning ease and gameplay complexity.

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“Performing a variety of actions with either traditional or simple inputs ensures anyone can engage competitively while enjoying the unique energy of multiple characters interacting in real time,” Sekine said.

Iconic characters and anime-inspired visual style

Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls features a playable roster of iconic Marvel characters including Captain America, Iron Man, Spider-Man, Doctor Doom, Storm, Ms. Marvel, Star-Lord, and Ghost Rider (Robbie Reyes). Each character is reimagined with custom visual designs and gameplay mechanics to align with their narrative backgrounds while fitting Arc System Works’ anime-inspired art direction.

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The character selection process prioritized recognizable figures while introducing new faces to the fighting game genre. “We needed characters who represented Marvel’s identity, but also brought diverse fighting styles,” said Arc Producer Takeshi Yamanaka. “We also wanted to include characters never before playable in this genre.”

Arc initially explored a Western comic-book shader style but ultimately shifted toward the studio’s signature Japanese animation look after discussions with Marvel Games. This visual direction brings high-definition, stylized effects to cinematic Ultimate Skills and stage transitions, further enhancing immersion.

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Dynamic stages and strategic transitions

Stages in Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls include layered designs with hidden Marvel easter eggs and multi-zone layouts. Players will battle across shifting environments that feature real-time transitions, offering new tactical opportunities during matches.

Each stage is designed not only for visual impact but for strategic gameplay. Shifts between stage zones can affect combat outcomes, allowing players to gain positional advantage or trigger special environmental effects.

In addition to the visual elements, Arc System Works and Marvel Games plan to expand on gameplay content with more announcements leading up to launch. Further character reveals, stage details, and online features are expected as the release date approaches.