Injustice 3: The Next Chapter of Heroic Showdowns
Nearly a decade has passed since NetherRealm debuted Injustice 2, the continuation of its acclaimed DC superhero fighting franchise. (And let’s not forget; it all kicked off with 2008’s Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe.) After delivering another gripping Mortal Kombat saga, it appears NetherRealm is set to return to the world of epic superhero clashes. Phil LaMarr, the voice behind Green Lantern and Aquaman, recently hinted at a convention that a third game is in the works.
This news should come as no surprise to those keeping a close eye on NetherRealm. Earlier this year, the studio wrapped up its support for Mortal Kombat 1 with two DLC fighter packs and a story expansion, announcing a shift toward their next major project. Prior to MK1’s big reveal, Injustice 3 felt like a natural progression, especially given NetherRealm’s alternating focus between its flagship franchises. The necessity of two successive Mortal Kombat titles likely stemmed from WB’s potential sale of the studio back in 2020. The return to Injustice was never a matter of “if,” but rather “when,” especially considering the success and lifespan of the second installment, which closed on a note that begged for more adventures.
What remains unclear is the tone that Injustice 3 will adopt. The first two installments hit the market in 2013 and 2017 during a time when DC was experimenting with Superman as a morally ambiguous character, especially against Batman. This was most notably showcased in films like Batman v Superman and the recent game, Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League. However, DC and WB have since pivoted away from that portrayal, gradually emphasizing Superman’s role as a beacon of hope and family values. While Joss Whedon’s Justice League hinted at a more relatable Superman, it wasn’t until James Gunn’s latest film that audiences saw a true return to form for the character.
Fortunately, NetherRealm has the flexibility to tread its own path. Injustice exists within a unique universe where a totalitarian version of Superman can persistently seek to reaffirm his power while teaming up with Batman—and the other Justice League members, assuming they’re still alive. As a prominent representation of the “Evil Superman” archetype—alongside characters like Homelander and Omni-Man—it wouldn’t be surprising for Injustice to delve deeper into Clark’s darker side. After all, the first game already showcased Good Superman triumphing over his Evil counterpart. However, if the developers choose to maintain this direction, can they effectively stand out in a time when a noble, heroic interpretation of Superman is more cherished than ever?
We’ll have to wait and see how NetherRealm navigates this intricate dilemma and what the character lineup will look like as we approach the game’s eventual release in the coming years.
Priyam Gera