10 Worst Licensed Video Games Of The Generation (So Far)

Including this one on the list hurts. On paper, this should’ve been an easy win. Crystal Dynamics had just wrapped a successful reboot run of Tomb Raider, and the idea of them bringing that same cinematic flair, satisfying mechanics, and emotional storytelling to Earth’s Mightiest Heroes felt like a match made in heaven.

And to be fair, there are moments when the potential shines through. The campaign opens with a bang, and there’s a decent narrative spine carried by strong performances, particularly Sandra Saad as Kamala Khan. Each Avenger has a unique feel, and there’s a clear thought behind how they control and interact with enemies.

But none of it matters when the whole thing is crushed under the weight of Square Enix’s aggressive live-service model. From the moment you finish a mission, the game bombards you with currencies, grinding loops, pointless gear upgrades, and constant reminders that you should be spending real money in the cosmetics shop.

Worse still, the live-service structure actively undermines the core experience. Loot is dull, progression is a chore, and co-op missions are painfully repetitive. What could’ve been a stellar superhero action game was transformed into a soulless grindfest - a decision that ultimately killed the game’s momentum and led to support being pulled just three years later.

It all ended up with Square selling off the Crystal to Embracer, like an unwanted stepchild. For an IP this big and a studio this talented, Marvel’s Avengers should’ve been a triumph. Instead, it's a black mark.