Essential Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra Character Deserves More than a Simple Cameo

Marvel Games is poised for an exciting year, with several highly anticipated projects on the horizon. EA is slated to release games focused on iconic characters such as Iron Man and Black Panther, while Arkane Lyon is hard at work crafting a new narrative around Marvel’s Blade. Additionally, Insomniac continues to develop Marvel’s Wolverine. However, one notable title, Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra, is set to take the spotlight first, eagerly awaited by fans as it gears up for a 2025 release.

Originally teased as the Skydance Marvel Project in September 2022, Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra has gained momentum with the unveiling of its official title and a captivating story trailer earlier this year. New insights into the game have emerged from an interview with acclaimed writer Amy Hennig, revealing intriguing details, including a significant role for Howard Stark, the father of Iron Man. Unlike typical cameos, Stark’s involvement in the game’s narrative is expected to be substantial.

Howard Stark: A Central Character in Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra

In-game screenshot from Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra

The Legacy of Howard Stark During World War II

Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra is set against the backdrop of World War II, a crucial period in Howard Stark’s extensive comic book narrative. Although most of his tales unfold in the 1950s and beyond, Stark’s involvement in pivotal events during WWII is undeniable. Notably, he played a crucial role in the Captain America project, collaborating closely with scientist Abraham Erskine during Steve Rogers’ transformation into the super soldier.

Various storylines also depict Stark’s work on the Manhattan Project, which leads to tumultuous encounters with Hydra leader, Red Skull. Attempting to coerce Howard into producing atomic weapons, Red Skull captures Stark and his wife, Maria. Thankfully, they are rescued by Captain America and his Howling Commandos.

In another tale from the wartime era, Stark invents a formidable robot named Arsenal. Designed to protect the Allies in the event of defeat, Arsenal remains in storage after the war but has a dormant AI named Mistress that eventually awakens and mistakenly perceives the Avengers as Axis threats.

Giving Howard Stark the Recognition He Deserves

Throughout the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Howard Stark has made several appearances, portrayed by Dominic Cooper in Captain America: The First Avenger and Agent Carter, with John Slattery stepping into the role in films such as Iron Man 2, Ant-Man, Captain America: Civil War, and Avengers: Endgame. Despite these memorable moments, many fans still view Stark as an underdeveloped character.

In Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra, Joel Johnstone, known for his role in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, is set to portray Howard Stark, potentially bringing fresh depth to the character. This game presents a fantastic opportunity to elevate Howard Stark’s profile within the Marvel universe, enhancing his story beyond merely cameo appearances.

By integrating Howard Stark into the game’s core storyline, Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra could allow players to experience his inventive genius firsthand. It would be fitting for Stark to contribute to Captain America’s upgrades during the campaign, showcasing his vital role in the war and in the development of superhero technology.

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