The Tokyo Game Show 2025 show floor is buzzing, and a major source of that energy is emanating from the booth for the highly anticipated fighter, MARVEL Tokon: Fighting Souls. We got hands-on time with the latest build, which features two newly confirmed and playable characters: the amazing Spider-Man and the spirit of vengeance, Ghost Rider. Fresh footage from the playable demo showcases the distinct fighting styles of these iconic heroes, offering a tantalizing glimpse into what could be one of the next great Marvel fighting games.
While the gameplay consists of a montage of moments rather than full, uninterrupted matches, the clips provide a fantastic look at each character's core mechanics, special moves, and overall feel. From the acrobatic, web-slinging finesse of Peter Parker to the hellfire-infused brutality of Johnny Blaze, the contrast in their approaches highlights the developer's commitment to creating a diverse and faithful roster.
Web-Slinger's Agility on Full Display
As expected, Spider-Man is a whirlwind of motion. His gameplay appears to be heavily focused on aerial mobility and high-speed mix-ups. The footage shows him effortlessly zip-lining across the screen with his webs, using walls to launch devastating new attack vectors, and trapping opponents in intricate web-based combos. His classic move set seems to be intact but re-imagined for Tokon's unique engine. We saw glimpses of a Web Ball projectile, a diving Web Swing kick, and an evasive maneuver that looked suspiciously like his signature Spider-Sense in action, allowing him to dodge an incoming attack and immediately counter.
The animation work is fluid, capturing the character's lithe and almost clumsy-looking, yet perfectly controlled, acrobatic style. Every flip, punch, and web-shot is imbued with the personality fans have come to love. It’s clear that he will be a character who rewards players with high mechanical skill and spatial awareness, dominating the screen with his unparalleled agility. He looks to be the quintessential rushdown character, designed to overwhelm opponents before they even have a chance to mount an offense.
The Spirit of Vengeance Unleashed
In stark and fiery contrast to Spider-Man's nimble grace is the raw, supernatural power of Ghost Rider. Where Spidey is fast and evasive, Ghost Rider is a deliberate and imposing force. His movements are heavier, more grounded, but each attack carries immense weight. The gameplay montage highlights his iconic chain whip, which he uses to control space, pull enemies in, and deliver brutal, wide-arcing strikes. The range on these chain attacks seems significant, suggesting he will be a formidable mid-range fighter, capable of punishing opponents from a safe distance.
Of course, it wouldn't be Ghost Rider without hellfire. Searing orange flames erupt from his special moves, creating a stunning visual spectacle. We witnessed a wave of fire sent across the ground, an explosive burst around his body, and what appeared to be a command grab where he sears his foe with his fiery gaze. While we didn't see a confirmed "Penance Stare" super move, the groundwork is clearly laid for some truly cinematic and devastating abilities. He feels like a powerhouse brawler, designed to intimidate and dominate the battlefield through sheer force and punishing special attacks.
A Glimpse into Tokon's Roster Philosophy
The choice to showcase these two specific characters is telling. Spider-Man represents the classic, street-level Marvel hero, while Ghost Rider brings in the dark, supernatural corner of the universe. This pairing suggests that the developers are aiming for a wide-ranging roster that celebrates the incredible diversity of Marvel Comics. It's not just about the Avengers or the X-Men; it's about creating a true clash of worlds.
The playable demo at TGS 2025 has solidified MARVEL Tokon: Fighting Souls as a title to watch closely. The core gameplay feels impactful, the visuals are crisp, and the commitment to character authenticity is palpable even in these short bursts of action. Seeing these two beloved characters brought to life with such care has only increased our anticipation. We're eager to see who else will be joining the fight and to finally witness a full, uninterrupted match to better understand the game's combo systems and meta. For now, this first look is more than enough to stoke the flames of excitement.