How Konami’s X-Men Arcade Game Defied the Odds — And Why a Re-Release Is Needed Now More Than Ever
I swear, Konami made some of the most iconic 90s arcade games out there. They truly did. They knew what magic they could create with their licenses and went to town. Even lesser known games like Bucky O’Hareand Wild West C.O.W.-boys of Moo-Mesa did remarkably well in the arcades they were put in.
But perhaps one that really stands out the most — and continues to be a big draw today — is Marvel’s X-Men. Initially released in 1992, this beat-em-up turned a lot of heads for a number of reasons. It was close to its comic lore; its dialogue was delightfully cheesy (as noted above); its characters were iconic, even when players were “stuck” with the “lesser” Dazzler; and, most importantly, it upped the ante in players that could join the fray.
For the first time, Konami upped the player count from four to six with a deluxe-sized cabinet that we had not seen since the days of Tecmo Bowl and Darius. Two monitors were connected together in a plus-sized unit that barely had room for six sets of controls, but made for a heck of a time with players. Anyone could drop in or out at any time, sticking it to Magneto and his friends as they attempted to take over the world. And, surprise, despite his claims, something could move the Blob.
There were four player cabinets as well, for those that couldn’t afford the deluxe editions (they were pricey). But they were just as popular, even if the view was zoomed in a little bit. No matter — we stomped mini-Sentinels like they were nothing.
The game was a hit for years to come, but, surprisingly enough, it was when Konami surprised everyone with a home release in 2010 that its popularity once again shot through the roof. Marvel’s X-Men found its way to Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, featuring the same iconic six-player play (online this time, as well as local), as well as different viewing and language options. Granted, the dialogue was re-recorded for some reason (we’re guessing rights), but it was still an entertaining romp all the same.
There were also mobile ports of Marvel’s X-Men released, and though not as feature-laden as the console editions, they were fun as well. You just had to get used to touch controls.
Many players snapped it up, but there were still many that mourned its departure from the marketplace, near the end of 2013. It was mainly due to rights, and it left some broken-hearted that they never got the chance to get the game. Still, those that did get it invited their friends over to play; and, of course, the popularity of the arcade game was as huge as ever.
Now we stand on the cusp of an X-Men revival of sorts, as Deadpool 3 is in the works (well, was, before the SAG/AFTRA strike) and the X-Men 97 series still being tinkered with (maybe?).
With that, Arcade1Up was wise to work alongside Marvel to produce an X-Men 3/4 arcade cabinet, featuring the original game, as well as Captain America and the Avengers (a fun game in its own right) and the long-lost beat-em-up Galactic Storm, which could’ve very well served as the inspiration for the Marvel vs. Capcom series with its tag-team play. Like the original release, it was a hit with fans — and I was happy to snag one as well. (It’s a favorite in my home arcade.)
But more is needed — and that’s why I believe Konami should once again work with Marvel to give X-Men Arcade a second chance, this time on contemporary consoles.
Revivals work. All you need to do is take a look at the sales numbers behind Scott Pilgrim vs. the World and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection and it’s plain to see. People still love the simplicity of retro gaming, while also admiring the bonus features and other goodies thrown in to keep a smile on their face.
Of course, with Marvel, I assume the fight to get the rights isn’t that easy — otherwise, we prolyl would’ve had a Marvel vs. Capcom compilation of some kind by now. (Maybe we’ll still get it. Fingers crossed.) But if Arcade1up can do it, I’m sure Konami can too, once again working with the maestros at Digital Eclipse to get the job done and make the game better than ever.
Ball’s in your court, Konami. I’d love to see a re-revival come back again, this time for more players to enjoy. Do it for “WENDIGO!”
Have a great week, all!
