Marvel Contest of Champions

Marvel Contest of Champions, a fighting game set in the Marvel Universe, hit iOS and Android on December 10, 2014. Developed and published by Kabam, it draws heavily from the limited comic book series of the same name. An arcade version, built by Raw Thrills, launched in 2019 exclusively at Dave & Buster's locations. A Windows port was announced for Steam, but as of the established canon, no release has occurred.

Players control the Summoner, who the Collector tasks with assembling a team of Marvel heroes and villains for combat. The 3D arenas restrict movement to a 2D plane, similar to *Injustice: Gods Among Us* and *Mortal Kombat X*. Newcomers start with two 1-star characters and can unlock others at star levels from two to seven. The roster of playable Marvel Comics characters is constantly expanding with updates, each upgradable with distinct classes, movements, traits, abilities, and special moves—though many share animations.

An energy system limits quest-based battles; it recharges automatically or can be refilled manually. Higher player levels increase the energy cap. Items like crystals appear at quest endpoints. In "Multiverse Arena" mode, users fight A.I.-controlled opponents in one-on-one or three-on-three matches, not real-time player battles. A persistent internet connection is required for both single and multiplayer.

Touch controls handle light, medium, and heavy attacks, plus block and dodge. Characters can shuffle back or sprint forward. Each hero has three special attacks (unlocked by rank and star level), unique abilities, and a signature ability gained by collecting a duplicate. Synergy bonuses boost stats when related characters team up—for instance, Doctor Doom and Mister Fantastic together grant a 6% attack increase. A power meter fills as damage is dealt, enabling special moves; leveling up unlocks more powerful but costlier attacks.

Battles occur in Marvel-inspired locations like Asgard, Hell's Kitchen, Knowhere, Oscorp, Savage Land, Stark Tower, Wakanda, and a S.H.I.E.L.D. Helicarrier. Characters level up using ISO-8 and Gold, and rank up with Catalysts earned from Story Quests, events, and arenas. Class-specific ISO-8 gives bonus experience. Completing quests yields XP and unlocks up to five heroes for a questing team. Players can chat globally or join Alliances, which enable cooperative Alliance Quests and Wars.