Insomniac Games is opting for a more focused, linear experience with Marvel's Wolverine, steering clear of the open-world design employed in its Spider-Man titles. The upcoming PlayStation 5 game is described as a story-driven adventure that will guide players from point A to point B, though detours for additional content will be available.
Players will have opportunities to engage with Wolverine beyond the main narrative. A core gameplay loop involves hunting for resources, which can be used to craft new suits, a mechanic similar to that found in Marvel's Spider-Man 2. Materials will be found in crates scattered throughout the game's levels. Additionally, players can seek out hidden bottles of whiskey. Collecting these alcoholic beverages will provide Logan with power-ups. Insomniac noted that Wolverine's regenerative healing factor allows him to consume large quantities of alcohol without becoming inebriated, as his body quickly metabolizes the toxins.
The game will also feature "Nightmare Doors," an activity that delves into Wolverine's psyche. These challenges represent "manifestations of the horrible things" within his mind, each presenting unique trials for the character to overcome. This concept draws parallels to the Mysterio challenges seen in Marvel's Spider-Man 2.
Upon completing the game, players will be able to experience a New Game Plus mode. This feature will allow them to carry over their entire loadout and progression into a subsequent playthrough. Insomniac has stated that New Game Plus will introduce "some fun things" and will feature areas that are either more challenging or allow players to utilize Logan's full suite of upgrades.
Insomniac's approach to Wolverine "is clearly doing more than just fitting a typical story of the character in it," according to GameSpot's preview. The game is slated for release on PS5 on September 15. In anticipation of the launch, Sony has also announced a limited-edition PS5 bundle, console covers, and a new DualSense controller themed after Marvel's Wolverine.