View source for Software:Marvel vs. Capcom

{{short description|Series of crossover fighting games}}
{{Infobox video game series
| title = Marvel vs. Capcom
| image = [[File:Marvel vs Capcom logo.png|250px]]
| caption = ''Marvel vs. Capcom'' logo used since 2010
| creator = 
| composer= 
| platforms = [[Software:Arcade game|Arcade]], [[Engineering:Dreamcast|Dreamcast]], [[Software:IOS|iOS]], [[Software:Microsoft Windows|Microsoft Windows]], [[Engineering:PlayStation (console)|PlayStation]], [[Engineering:PlayStation 2|PlayStation 2]], [[Engineering:PlayStation 3|PlayStation 3]], [[Engineering:PlayStation 4|PlayStation 4]], [[Engineering:PlayStation Vita|PlayStation Vita]], [[Engineering:Sega Saturn|Sega Saturn]], [[Engineering:Xbox (console)|Xbox]], [[Engineering:Xbox 360|Xbox 360]], [[Engineering:Xbox One|Xbox One]]
| developer = [[Company:Capcom|Capcom]]<br>[[Company:Backbone Entertainment|Backbone Entertainment]]{{efn|Backbone Entertainment developed the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 versions of ''Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes''.}}<br>[[Company:Eighting|Eighting]]{{efn|Eighting co-developed ''Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds'' and ''Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3'' with Capcom.}}<br>Iron Galaxy Studios{{efn|Iron Galaxy Studios developed ''Marvel vs. Capcom Origins''.}}
| publisher = Capcom<br>Virgin Interactive Entertainment{{efn|Virgin Interactive Entertainment published the Dreamcast versions of ''Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes'' and ''Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes'' in Europe.}}
| genre = [[Software:Fighting game|Fighting]]
| first release version  = ''[[Software:X-Men vs. Street Fighter|X-Men vs. Street Fighter]]''
| first release date     = 1996
| latest release version = ''[[Software:Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite|Marvel vs. Capcom]]''
| latest release date    = 2017
}}

{{nihongo foot|'''''Marvel vs. Capcom'''''|マーヴル VS. カプコン|Māvuru bāsasu Kapukon|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}} is a series of crossover [[Software:Fighting game|fighting game]]s developed and published by [[Company:Capcom|Capcom]], featuring characters from their own video game franchises and comic book series published by Marvel Comics. The series originated as coin-operated [[Software:Arcade game|arcade game]]s, though later releases would be specifically developed for home consoles, handhelds, and personal computers.

Its gameplay borrows heavily from Capcom's previous Marvel-licensed fighting games ''[[Software:X-Men: Children of the Atom (video game)|X-Men: Children of the Atom]]'' and ''[[Software:Marvel Super Heroes (video game)|Marvel Super Heroes]]''; however, instead of focusing on [[Social:Single combat|single combat]], the games incorporated tag team battles. Players form teams of two or three characters and, controlling one fighter at a time, attempt to damage and knock out their opponents. Players can switch out their characters during the match, allowing team members to replenish their [[Software:Health (gaming)|health]] and prolong their ability to fight. The series' gameplay is also distinguished from other fighting game franchises due to its character assist mechanics and emphasis on aerial combat.

The ''Marvel vs. Capcom'' series has received generally positive reviews from critics, who have praised its fast-paced gameplay, animated visuals, and wealth of playable characters. On the other hand, the games have been criticized for their lack of content, especially more recent installments. The series has enjoyed broad appeal, especially in markets outside of Japan, selling approximately 10 million units as of 2023.<ref>[http://www.capcom.co.jp/ir/english/finance/salesdata.html CAPCOM | Game Series Sales]</ref>

==Games==
{{Video game timeline
| compressempty = yes
| 1996 = ''[[Software:X-Men vs. Street Fighter|X-Men vs. Street Fighter]]''
| 1997 = ''[[Software:Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter|Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter]]''
| 1998 = ''[[Software:Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes|Marvel vs. Capcom]]''
| 2000 = ''Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes''
| 2011a = ''Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds''
| 2011b = ''[[Software:Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3|Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3]]''
| 2012 = ''[[Software:Marvel vs. Capcom Origins|Marvel vs. Capcom Origins]]''
| 2017 = ''[[Software:Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite|Marvel vs. Capcom]]''
}}
*'''''[[Software:X-Men vs. Street Fighter|X-Men vs. Street Fighter]]''''' was initially released as an [[Software:Arcade game|arcade game]] in 1996.<ref name=SFHistory>{{cite web |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2009/02/16/ign-presents-the-history-of-street-fighter?page=7 |title=IGN Presents the History of Street Fighter (Page 7) |last=McLaughlin |first=Rus |website=IGN |date=February 16, 2009 |access-date=January 3, 2016}}</ref> The game was later [[Porting|ported]] to the [[Engineering:Sega Saturn|Sega Saturn]] in 1997 and [[Engineering:PlayStation (console)|PlayStation]] in 1998.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=http://www.gameinformer.com/cgi-bin/review.cgi?sys=sat&path=feb98&doc=xmsf |title=X-Men vs. Street Fighter - Sega Saturn |magazine=Game Informer |issue=58 |date=February 1998 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990921173526/http://www.gameinformer.com/cgi-bin/review.cgi?sys=sat&path=feb98&doc=xmsf |archive-date=September 21, 1999 |url-status=dead |access-date=February 8, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nowgamer.com/x-men-vs-street-fighter-ex/ |title=X-Men vs. Street Fighter EX |website=NowGamer |date=February 26, 1998 |access-date=February 8, 2017}}</ref> It established the series' basic gameplay conventions by combining ''[[Software:Street Fighter|Street Fighter]]''-style combat with tag team features.<ref name=CompleteWorks>{{cite book|title=Marvel vs. Capcom: Official Complete Works|author=UDON Entertainment|year=2012|publisher=Diamond Comics|location=Hong Kong|isbn=9781926778495|page=3}}</ref> ''X-Men vs. Street Fighter'' also borrowed gameplay concepts from Capcom's previous Marvel-licensed fighting games, ''X-Men: Children of the Atom'' and ''Marvel Super Heroes''.<ref name=EuroG>{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/street-fighter-retrospective-article?page=4|date=February 15, 2009|access-date=February 8, 2017|last=Edwards|first=Matt|website=Eurogamer|title=Retrospective: Street Fighter • Page 4}}</ref>
*'''''[[Software:Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter|Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter]]''''' was released in arcades in 1997.<ref name=SFHistory/> It was then ported to the Sega Saturn in 1998 and PlayStation in 1999.<ref name=GSpotSAT>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/marvel-super-heroes-vs-street-fighter-import-revie/1900-2532883/ |title=Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter (Import) Review (Saturn) |last=Gerstmann |first=Jeff |website=GameSpot |date=November 30, 1998 |access-date=February 8, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/1998/10/15/first-look-marvel-super-heroes-vs-street-fighter |title=First Look: Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter |last=Perry |first=Douglass C. |website=IGN |date=October 14, 1998 |access-date=February 8, 2017}}</ref> The game expanded the playable roster to the larger Marvel Universe, introducing characters such as Captain America, Hulk, and Spider-Man.<ref name=CompleteWorks/> It was also responsible for introducing character assist moves to the franchise, a gameplay element which would influence future ''Marvel vs. Capcom'' installments.<ref name=EuroG/>
*'''''[[Software:Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes|Marvel vs. Capcom]]''''' debuted in arcades in 1998.<ref name=SFHistory/> Ports to the [[Engineering:Dreamcast|Dreamcast]] and PlayStation soon followed in 1999.<ref name=IGNReviewDC>{{cite web |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/1999/10/08/marvel-vs-capcom-clash-of-super-heroes-review |title=Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes Review (DC) |last=Dunham |first=Jeremy |website=IGN |date=October 7, 1999 |access-date=February 8, 2017}}</ref> Rather than strictly using ''Street Fighter'' characters, the game included characters from other Capcom video game franchises, such as Mega Man, Morrigan, and Strider Hiryu.<ref name=CompleteWorks/> It removed the character assist feature used in ''Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter'' and implemented its own system, which randomly allocated guest characters to each player.<ref name=History>{{cite web|title=Marvel vs Capcom: a history of the Vs fighting series|website=GamesRadar |last=Elston |first=Brett |date=April 20, 2010|url=http://www.gamesradar.com/marvel-vs-capcom-a-history-of-the-vs-fighting-series/|access-date=February 8, 2017}}</ref>  
*'''''Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes''''' was released in arcades in 2000 and ported to the Dreamcast within the same year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.arcade-museum.com/game_detail.php?game_id=8637|access-date=February 8, 2017|website=[[Software:Killer List of Videogames|Killer List of Videogames]]|title=Marvel Vs. Capcom 2 New Age Of Heroes}}</ref><ref name=Anoop>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2000/06/30/marvel-vs-capcom-2-new-age-of-heroes|date=June 29, 2000|access-date=February 8, 2017|last=Gantayat|first=Anoop|website=IGN|title=Marvel vs Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes}}</ref> The game received ports to the [[Engineering:PlayStation 2|PlayStation 2]] and [[Engineering:Xbox (console)|Xbox]] in 2002.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/marvel-vs-capcom-2-release-dates-set-in-japan/1100-2870446/|date=June 12, 2002|access-date=February 8, 2017|website=GameSpot|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2 release dates set in Japan}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/marvel-vs-capcom-2-xbox-still-on-for-march/1100-2911788/|date=February 27, 2003|access-date=February 8, 2017|last=Gerstmann|first=Jeff|website=GameSpot|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2 Xbox still on for March}}</ref> It was then re-released for the [[Engineering:Xbox 360|Xbox 360]] and [[Engineering:PlayStation 3|PlayStation 3]] through the Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network, respectively, in 2009.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/marvel-vs-capcom-2-psn-dated|date=July 16, 2009|access-date=February 8, 2017|last=Bramwell|first=Tom|work=Eurogamer|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2 PSN dated}}</ref> Lastly, a version for [[Software:IOS|iOS]] devices was released in 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2012/04/20/marvel-vs-capcom-2-begins-a-new-new-age-of-heroes-on-ios/|date=April 20, 2012|access-date=February 8, 2017|last=Fletcher|first=JC|work=Eurogamer|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2 begins a new New Age of Heroes on iOS}}</ref> Featuring a large playable roster, ''Marvel vs. Capcom 2'' reused the assist features from ''Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter'' and changed the series' two-on-two battle system to three-on-three fights.<ref name=Chiappini>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/marvel-vs-capcom-2-review/1900-6227712/|date=September 22, 2009|access-date=February 8, 2017|last=Chiappini|first=Dan|website=GameSpot|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2 Review}}</ref> 
*'''''Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds''''' was released for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 in 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/02/14/marvel-vs-capcom-3-the-basics|date=February 14, 2011|access-date=January 21, 2017|website=IGN|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 3: The Basics}}</ref> The series' traditional [[Sprite (computer graphics)|sprites]] transitioned into 3D character models while retaining the 2D-style combat.<ref name=CompleteWorks/> The game includes various gameplay features designed to make it more accessible to newer players, such as the additions of a comeback mechanic and a more simplified control scheme.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/marvel-vs-capcom-3-fate-of-two-worlds-primer/1100-6298911/|date=February 14, 2011|access-date=February 8, 2017|last=Seid|first=Kurtis|website=GameSpot|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds Primer}}</ref>
*'''''[[Software:Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3|Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3]]''''', a standalone updated edition of the original ''Marvel vs. Capcom 3'', was released for PlayStation 3, [[Engineering:PlayStation Vita|PlayStation Vita]], and Xbox 360 in 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.videogamer.com/news/ultimate-marvel-vs-capcom-3-given-november-release-date|date=July 21, 2011|access-date=February 9, 2017|last=Orry|first=James|website=VideoGamer.com|title=Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3 given November release date}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/events/tgs-2011/story.html?sid=6334311|date=September 13, 2011|access-date=February 9, 2017|last=Parker|first=Laura|website=GameSpot|title=PlayStation Vita launching in Japan December 17}}</ref> The game was also released for the [[Engineering:PlayStation 4|PlayStation 4]] via the PlayStation Network in 2016; releases for the [[Engineering:Xbox One|Xbox One]] via the Xbox Live Arcade and [[Software:Microsoft Windows|Microsoft Windows]] via [[Software:Steam (service)|Steam]] followed in 2017.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/ultimate-marvel-vs-capcom-3-dated-for-xbox-onepc-p/1100-6447079/|date=January 19, 2017|access-date=February 9, 2017|last=Pereira|first=Chris|website=GameSpot|title=Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 Dated for Xbox One/PC, Physical Xbox One/PS4 Versions Coming}}</ref> It features new characters, stages, modes, and other enhancements to improve game balance and online functionality.<ref name=Ultimate>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/07/20/comic-con-ultimate-marvel-vs-capcom-3-announced|date=July 20, 2011|access-date=February 9, 2017|last=Reilly|first=Jim|website=IGN|title=Comic-Con: Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 Announced}}</ref> 
*'''''[[Software:Marvel vs. Capcom Origins|Marvel vs. Capcom Origins]]''''', a compilation game which includes ''Marvel Super Heroes'' and ''Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes'', was released for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 through the PlayStation Network and Xbox Live Arcade, respectively, in 2012.<ref name=Origins>{{cite web|url=http://www.capcom-unity.com/brelston/blog/2012/07/05/marvel_vs_capcom_origins_coming_to_xbla_and_psn_in_september|title=Marvel vs Capcom Origins coming to XBLA and PSN in September|date=July 5, 2012|access-date=February 9, 2017|author=Elston, Brett|website=Capcom-Unity}}</ref> It features high-definition visuals, online multiplayer, dynamic challenges, and unlockables.<ref name=Origins/>
*'''''[[Software:Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite|Marvel vs. Capcom]]''''' was released in 2017 for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Microsoft Windows.<ref name=Infinite1>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/12/03/psx-2016-marvel-vs-capcom-infinite-announced|date=December 3, 2016|access-date=February 9, 2017|last=Goldfarb|first=Andrew|website=IGN|title=PSX 2016: Marvel vs. Capcom Infinite Announced}}</ref><ref name=Infinite2>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/marvel-vs-capcom-infinite-officially-announced/1100-6445942/|date=December 3, 2016|access-date=February 9, 2017|last=Hussain|first=Tamoor|website=GameSpot|title=Marvel Vs. Capcom Infinite Officially Announced}}</ref> It features two-on-two battles, similar to earlier ''Marvel vs. Capcom'' games, and removes traditional assist moves in favor of its own dual-character combo system.<ref name=Infinite2/><ref name=MvCI>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.gameinformer.com/games/marvel_vs_capcom_infinite/b/playstation4/archive/2016/12/03/two-on-two-fights-are-made-more-chaotic-by-infinity-stones.aspx|date=December 3, 2016|access-date=February 9, 2017|last=Vazquez|first=Suriel|magazine=Game Informer|title=Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite - Two-On-Two Fights Are Made More Chaotic By Infinity Stones}}</ref> The game also implements a gameplay mechanic involving the Infinity Stones, which grants players unique abilities and upgrades depending on the type of stone selected.<ref name=MvCI/> It is the first game to feature a cinematic story mode.

===Related media===
In 2011, a series of Minimates based on the playable characters from ''Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds'' were released by Art Asylum.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2011/06/21/a-look-at-art-asylum-39-s-marvel-vs-capcom-3-minimates.aspx?PageIndex=2|date=June 21, 2011|access-date=April 7, 2017|magazine=Game Informer|last=Reiner|first=Andrew|title=A Look At Art Asylum's Marvel Vs. Capcom 3 Minimates}}</ref>

Udon Entertainment published ''Marvel vs. Capcom: Official Complete Works'' art book consisting of promotional artwork, sketches and bonus material from the video game collaborations between Marvel and Capcom, beginning with the 1993 arcade game ''[[Software:The Punisher (1993 video game)|The Punisher]]'' to ''Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3''.<ref name="DigitalSpy">{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.com/gaming/news/a388898/marvel-vs-capcom-art-book-announced/|date=June 21, 2012|access-date=January 20, 2017|website=Digital Spy|last=Langshaw|first=Mark|title=Get Marvel vs. Capcom: Official Complete Works}}</ref><ref name="Crunchyroll">{{cite web|url=http://www.crunchyroll.com/anime-news/2012/06/19-1/udon-to-release-marvel-vs-capcom-official-complete-works-art-book|date=June 19, 2012|access-date=January 20, 2017|website=[[Company:Crunchyroll|Crunchyroll]]|last=Green|first=Scott|title=Udon to Release "Marvel vs. Capcom: Official Complete Works" Art Book}}</ref> It contains contributions from a variety of artists and illustrators, including Akiman, Bengus, Shinkiro, Joe Madureira, Adi Granov, Joe Ng, Long Vo, Chamba, Adam Warren and Takeshi Miyazawa.<ref name="DigitalSpy" /> ''Official Complete Works'' made its international debut at San Diego Comic-Con on July 11, 2012, in an exclusive hardcover edition.<ref name="DigitalSpy" /><ref name="Crunchyroll" /> The hardcover also featured a wrap-around cover designed by Udon Entertainment and Capcom artist Alvin Lee, and digitally-painted by Udon's Genzoman.<ref name="Crunchyroll" /> A standard-format softcover was released in November 2012 by Diamond Comics.<ref name="Crunchyroll" />

Within the Marvel Comics multiverse, the ''Marvel vs. Capcom'' universe is designated as "Earth-30847".<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2015/01/14/the-marvel-vs-capcom-version-of-spider-man-showed-up-in-a-recent-marvel-comic.aspx|date=January 14, 2015|access-date=December 29, 2020|magazine=Game Informer|last=Futter|first=Mike|title=Marvel Vs. Capcom Spidey Gets Knocked Out In Marvel's Spider-Verse #2}}</ref>

==Gameplay==
[[File:MvC3 gameplay.jpg|thumb|left|A screenshot from ''Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds'', featuring Hsien-Ko and Felicia from Capcom's ''Darkstalkers'' series and Iron Man from the Marvel Universe.]]

The basic gameplay of the ''Marvel vs. Capcom'' series was originally derived from ''X-Men: Children of the Atom'' and ''Marvel Super Heroes''.<ref name=EuroG/> Players compete in battle using characters with unique moves and special attacks.<ref name=Manual>{{cite book |url=http://gamesdbase.com/Media/SYSTEM/Sony_Playstation/manual/Formated/X-Men_vs._Street_Fighter_-_1998_-_Capcom_Co.,_Ltd..pdf |title=X-Men vs. Street Fighter - PlayStation (Manual) |publisher=[[Company:Capcom|Capcom]] |access-date=January 20, 2017}}</ref> Using a combination of [[Engineering:Joystick|joystick]] movements and button presses, players must execute various moves to damage their opponent and deplete their life gauge, or alternatively, have the most cumulative health when the timer runs out.<ref name=Manual/><ref name=Manual2>{{cite book |url=http://gamesdbase.com/Media/SYSTEM/Sony_Playstation/manual/Formated/Marvel_Super_Heroes_Vs._Street_Fighter_-_1999_-_Capcom_Co.,_Ltd..pdf |title=Marvel Super Heroes Vs. Street Fighter - Sony Playstation - Manual |publisher=[[Company:Capcom|Capcom]] |access-date=January 20, 2017}}</ref> However, unlike the two aforementioned games, which focus on single combat, the ''Marvel vs. Capcom'' series revolve around tag team-based combat.<ref name=EuroG/> Instead of choosing a single character, players select multiple characters to form teams of two or three.<ref name=EuroG/> Each character on the team is given their own life gauge.<ref name=GIReviewSAT>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.gameinformer.com/cgi-bin/review.cgi?sys=sat&path=feb98&doc=xmsf |access-date=January 20, 2017 |magazine=Game Informer |title=X-Men Vs. Street Fighter - Sega Saturn - Review |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990921173526/http://www.gameinformer.com/cgi-bin/review.cgi?sys=sat&path=feb98&doc=xmsf |archive-date=September 21, 1999 }}</ref><ref name=SSM>{{cite magazine|date=January 1998|title=X-Men vs Street Fighter - Exclusive!|url=http://retrocdn.net/images/b/bd/SSM_UK_27.pdf|magazine=Sega Saturn Magazine|access-date=January 20, 2017|issue=27|pages=52–61}}</ref> Players control one character at a time, while the others await off-screen.<ref name=Manual/> Players are also free to swap between their characters at any point during the match.<ref name=GameSpotReview>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/marvel-vs-capcom-review/1900-2540395/ |title=Marvel vs. Capcom [Clash of Super Heroes] Review (DC) |last=Gerstmann |first=Jeff |website=GameSpot |date=April 2, 1999 |access-date=January 21, 2017}}</ref> As characters take damage, portions of their life gauge will turn red, known as "red health", which represents the amount of health that a character can recover if the player tags them out.<ref name=Hardcore>{{cite web|url=http://www.hardcoregamer.com/2016/12/16/review-ultimate-marvel-vs-capcom-3-ps4/239911/|date=December 16, 2016|access-date=January 20, 2017|last=Shive|first=Chris|website=Hardcore Gamer|title=Review: Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 (PS4)}}</ref> The off-screen, dormant characters will slowly replenish their red health, allowing players to cycle through their team members and prolong their ability to fight.<ref name=Hardcore/> Furthermore, as characters deal and receive damage, a colored meter at the bottom of the screen known as the "Hyper Combo Gauge" will gradually fill.<ref name=Beginner>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamesradar.com/marvel-vs-capcom-3-beginners-guide/|date=February 16, 2011|access-date=January 20, 2017|last=Grimm|first=Michael|website=GamesRadar|title=Marvel vs Capcom 3 Beginner's Guide}}</ref> By expending meter from their Hyper Combo Gauge, players can perform "Hyper Combos" – powerful, cinematic attacks that deal heavy damage to the opponent – in addition to several other special techniques.<ref name=Manual/><ref name=Beginner/> If one character loses all of their health, they are knocked out and the next available fighter will automatically come into play.<ref name=SSM/>

Each successive ''Marvel vs. Capcom'' installment has added, removed, or altered gameplay elements over the course of the series' history.<ref name=EuroG/> ''X-Men vs. Street Fighter'' added two-on-two tag team features.<ref name=History/> ''Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter'' introduced the concept of the "assist" by allowing the player to summon their off-screen partner to perform a special move without switching characters.<ref name=History/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://shoryuken.com/2012/03/16/a-history-of-tag-team-fighting-game-innovations/ |title=A History Of Tag Team Fighting Game Innovations |last=Co |first=Franz |website=Shoryuken |date=March 16, 2012 |access-date=January 20, 2017}}</ref> This feature was replaced in ''Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes'', which instead randomly allocated an unplayable guest character with a preset assist move before each match; in addition, assists were limited to only a few uses per round.<ref name=History/> The assist features from ''Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter'' were re-incorporated into the following sequel, ''Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes'', once again granting players the ability to call in their off-screen characters at any time during the match without constraint.<ref name=MvC2>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2000/05/12/marvel-vs-capcom-2-new-age-of-heroes-2|date=May 11, 2000|access-date=January 20, 2017|last=Dunham|first=Jeremy|website=IGN|title=Marvel vs Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes}}</ref> ''Marvel vs. Capcom 2'' also increased the number of characters per team by one, providing a three-on-three battle format.<ref name=MvC2/> ''Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds'' introduced "X-Factor", a comeback mechanic which offers increased damage, speed, and red health regeneration for a limited time upon activation.<ref name=Beginner/> ''Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite'' reverts to two-on-two partner battles and removes traditional character assists.<ref name=MvCI/> ''Infinite'' also implements the Infinity Stones as a gameplay mechanic, where each of the six stones grants unique abilities and enhancements to the player.<ref name=MvCI/>

Another gameplay element that helps to distinguish the ''Marvel vs. Capcom'' series from other fighting game franchises is its emphasis on aerial combat.<ref>{{cite magazine|date=September 1998|title=X-Men vs. Street Fighter|url=http://i.imgur.com/6mwSmFn.jpg|magazine=Next Generation|issue=45|page=138|access-date=January 20, 2017}}</ref><ref name=GameFan>{{cite magazine|date=February 1998|title=X-Men vs. Street Fighter|url=https://www.flickr.com/photos/45478630@N07/4243211205/in/photolist-7sXyRT-7sXyfe-7sXy4H-7t2wH5-7t2wvm-7t2vYo-7t2oMs-7t2fGy-7t2B4N-7sXeGZ-7sXFDF-7t2zLL-7t2uqW-7sXm6B-7t2BPj-7t2hnW-7sXDUB-7sXv74-7t2rwL-7sXmhV-7t2k8L-7t2ra5-7t2Bmd-7sXkED-7sXKNc-7sXE7K-7sXz3v-7sXren-7t2i5b-7sXnHR-7t2irm-7t2CVG-7sXtk6-7t2mXC-7t2gsS-7t2xSJ-7t2ohu-7sXhma-7sXmFk-7sXAfF-7sXp8D-7sXze8-7sXAUB-7sXutX-7sXsr4-7t2mKA-7sXzBK-7sXqZv-7sXkeV-7t2Aau|magazine=GameFan|volume=6|issue=2|pages=74–79|access-date=January 20, 2017}}</ref> Every character in the ''Marvel vs. Capcom'' series is given a "Launcher" move, which sends the opponent flying up into the air.<ref name=GameFan/> The player can then choose to follow up immediately by using a "Super Jump", which allows a character to jump much higher than normal, in order to continue their [[Software:Combo (video gaming)|combo]]; these airborne combos are called "Air Combos" or "Aerial Raves".<ref name=EuroG/><ref name=Manual2/> ''Marvel vs. Capcom 3'' introduced a gameplay feature known as the "Team Aerial Combo" or "Aerial Exchange", giving players the opportunity to extend their Air Combos further by quickly tagging in their other characters while mid-air.<ref name=Beginner/>

As Capcom's design philosophy for the series has changed to appeal to a wider audience, the control scheme has been repeatedly modified to accommodate people less familiar with the fighting game genre.<ref name=MvCI/><ref>{{cite web|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds First Impressions|website=G4TV |last=Klepek |first=Patrick|date=April 20, 2010|url=http://g4tv.com/articles/70546/Marvel-vs-Capcom-3-Fate-of-Two-Worlds-First-Impressions/|access-date=January 21, 2017}}</ref> The first three installments utilized the same layout of six attack buttons, separated as three pairs of light, medium, and hard punches and kicks.<ref name=MvCI/><ref name=Manual/> In ''Marvel vs. Capcom 2'', in order to make the game more accessible, the layout was tweaked to four attack buttons, consisting of two pairs of light and heavy punches and kicks, and two dedicated assist buttons.<ref name=Chiappini/><ref name=Simplify>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/01/06/simplifying-marvel-vs-capcom-3|date=January 6, 2011|access-date=February 20, 2017|last=George|first=Richard|website=IGN|title=Simplifying Marvel vs. Capcom 3}}</ref> The control scheme was further simplified with the release of ''Marvel vs. Capcom 3'', which included three attack buttons designated to undefined light, medium, and hard attacks, two assist buttons, and an "exchange button" used to perform Launchers and switch between characters during Air Combos.<ref name=Simplify/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/marvel-vs-capcom-3-fate-of-two-worlds-hands-on/1100-6265675/|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds Hands-On |last=Varanini |first=Giancarlo |website=GameSpot|date=June 15, 2010|access-date=January 21, 2017}}</ref> In addition, ''Marvel vs. Capcom 3'' included two different control scheme options: Normal Mode and Simple Mode.<ref name=Simple>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2010/09/16/tgs-marvel-vs-capcom-3-gets-simple|title=TGS: Marvel vs. Capcom 3 Gets Simple |last=Brudvig |first=Erik |website=IGN|date=September 16, 2010|access-date=January 21, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/5661915/the-argument-for-marvel-vs-capcom-3s-super-simple-controls|title=The Argument For Marvel Vs. Capcom 3's Super-Simple Controls |last=Totilo |first=Stephen |website=Kotaku|date=October 12, 2010|access-date=January 21, 2017}}</ref> Simple Mode, designed for casual players, allows players to perform special moves and Hyper Combos with single button presses at the expense of limiting a character's available moveset.<ref name=Simplify/><ref name=Simple/>

==Characters==
''Marvel vs. Capcom'' has featured over 100 playable fighters, primarily drawn from comic book series published by Marvel Comics and video games franchises developed and produced by Capcom. The games have introduced a few original characters, which include Norimaro from ''Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter'', and Amingo, Ruby Heart, and SonSon from ''Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes''.<ref name=History/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamesradar.com/the-56-characters-of-marvel-vs-capcom-2/|date=April 9, 2013|access-date=February 18, 2017|last=Gilbert|first=Henry|website=GamesRadar|title=The 56 characters of Marvel vs Capcom 2}}</ref> In addition to the playable cast, other characters from the Marvel and Capcom universes make appearances in the games in varying capacities. Both ''Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter'' and ''Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes'' include [[Software:Player character#Secret characters|secret characters]] which can be played by inputting specific sequences of joystick movements on the character select screen.<ref name=KLOV>{{cite web |url=http://www.arcade-museum.com/game_detail.php?game_id=8635 |title=Marvel Super Heroes Vs. Street Fighter |website=[[Software:Killer List of Videogames|Killer List of Videogames]] |access-date=January 21, 2017}}</ref><ref name=KLOV2>{{cite web |url=http://www.arcade-museum.com/game_detail.php?game_id=8636 |title=Marvel Vs. Capcom |website=[[Software:Killer List of Videogames|Killer List of Videogames]] |access-date=January 21, 2017}}</ref> These secret characters consist of palette swaps of existing fighters with different moveset properties.<ref name=KLOV/><ref name=KLOV2/> ''Clash of Super Heroes'' also has unplayable summon characters as part of its "Guest Character/Special Partner" assist system.<ref name=GameSpotReview/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/1999/07/29/marvel-vs-capcom-4 |title=Marvel vs. Capcom (Preview) |last=Dunham |first=Jeremy |website=IGN |date=July 28, 1999 |access-date=January 21, 2017}}</ref>

Many ''Marvel vs. Capcom'' installments also allow players to fight as the games' [[Software:Boss (video games)|boss characters]] in special game modes, with the exception of Abyss from ''Marvel vs. Capcom 2''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2010/04/27/marvel-vs-capcom-3-whos-the-boss|date=April 27, 2010|access-date=January 21, 2017|last=Schedeen|first=Jesse|website=IGN|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Who's the Boss}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/10/15/galactus-revealed-as-playable-in-his-own-little-mode-for-ultim/|date=October 15, 2011|access-date=January 21, 2017|last=Gilbert|first=Ben|website=[[Software:Engadget|Engadget]]|title=Galactus revealed as playable in 'his own little mode' for Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3}}</ref> Characters that have not been playable frequently make cameo appearances in the games' cutscenes and stage backgrounds.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamesradar.com/the-43-character-cameos-of-marvel-vs-capcom-3/|date=February 18, 2011|access-date=January 21, 2017|last=Elston|first=Brett|website=GamesRadar|title=The 43 character cameos of Marvel vs Capcom 3}}</ref> Lastly, numerous non-playable Marvel and Capcom characters are featured as "Ability Cards" in the Heroes and Heralds game mode in ''Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/12/17/pick-a-side-in-umvc3s-heroes-and-heralds-mode|date=December 16, 2011|access-date=January 21, 2017|last=Hopper|first=Steven|website=IGN|title=Pick a Side in UMvC3's Heroes and Heralds Mode}}</ref> Out of all the playable characters, Ryu and Chun-Li are the only ones to have appeared in every game released thus far.

{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible"
|+ {{nowrap|List of playable characters}}
|-
! Character
! Company
! style="text-align:center; width:50px;"|''[[Software:X-Men vs. Street Fighter|XvSF]]''
! style="text-align:center; width:50px;"|''[[Software:Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter|MSHvSF]]''
! style="text-align:center; width:50px;"|''[[Software:Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes|MvC]]''
! style="text-align:center; width:50px;"|''MvC2''
! style="text-align:center; width:50px;"|''MvC3''
! style="text-align:center; width:50px;"|''[[Software:Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3|UMvC3]]''
! style="text-align:center; width:50px;"|''[[Software:Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite|MvCI]]''
|-
| Akuma||Capcom
| {{Ya}}||{{Ya}}{{r|ref1|group=Note}}||{{Na}}{{r|ref4|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Albert Wesker||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Amaterasu||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Amingo||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Anakaris||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Apocalypse||Marvel 
| {{Ya}}{{r|ref1|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}{{r|ref1|group=Note}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Arthur||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}{{r|ref5|group=Note}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| B.B. Hood||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Blackheart||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Ya}}{{r|ref2|group=Note}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Black Panther||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}}
|-
| Black Widow||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}}
|-
| Cable||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Cammy White||Capcom
| {{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Captain America||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Ya}}{{r|ref2|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}{{r|ref2|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Captain Commando||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Captain Marvel||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Charlie Nash||Capcom
| {{Ya}}||{{Ya}}{{r|ref2|group=Note}}||{{Na}}{{r|ref2|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Chris Redfield||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Chun-Li||Capcom
| {{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}{{r|ref2|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Colossus||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}{{r|ref5|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Crimson Viper||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Cyclops||Marvel 
| {{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}{{r|ref5|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Dan Hibiki||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Dante||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| [[Social:Deadpool|Deadpool]]||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Dhalsim||Capcom
| {{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Doctor Doom||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Doctor Strange||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Dormammu||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Felicia||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Firebrand||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Frank West||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Galactus||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}{{r|ref1|group=Note}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Gambit||Marvel 
| {{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Gamora||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Ghost Rider||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| [[Social:Guile (Street Fighter)|Guile]]||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Hawkeye||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Hayato Kanzaki||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Hsien-Ko||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Hulk||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}{{r|ref2|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Iceman||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}{{r|ref5|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Iron Fist||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Iron Man||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Jedah Dohma||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| [[Social:Jill Valentine|Jill Valentine]]||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}}||{{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Jin Saotome||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Juggernaut||Marvel 
| {{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}{{r|ref5|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Ken Masters||Capcom
| {{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}{{r|ref4|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Magneto||Marvel 
| {{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}{{r|ref5|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Marrow||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| M. Bison||Capcom
| {{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Mega Man||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Mike Haggar||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| M.O.D.O.K.||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| [[Software:Monster Hunter|Monster Hunter]]||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}}
|-
| Morrigan Aensland||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}{{r|ref2|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Nathan Spencer||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Nemesis||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Norimaro||{{n/a}}
| {{Na}}||{{Ya}}{{r|ref3|group=Note}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Nova||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Omega Red||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Onslaught||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}{{r|ref1|group=Note}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Phoenix||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Phoenix Wright||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Psylocke||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}{{r|ref5|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Rocket Raccoon||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Rogue||Marvel 
| {{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}{{r|ref5|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Roll||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Ruby Heart||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Ryu||Capcom
| {{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Sabretooth||Marvel 
| {{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Sakura Kasugano||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Ya}}{{r|ref2|group=Note}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Sentinel||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}{{r|ref5|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Servbot||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| She-Hulk||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Shuma-Gorath||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}}||{{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Sigma||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}}
|-
| Silver Samurai||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| SonSon||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Spider-Man||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Ya}}{{r|ref2|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Spiral||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Storm||Marvel 
| {{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}{{r|ref5|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Strider Hiryu||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Super-Skrull||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Taskmaster||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Thanos||Marvel 
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Thor Odinson||Marvel
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}{{r|ref5|group=Note}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Trish||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| [[Software:The Misadventures of Tron Bonne|Tron Bonne]]||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Ultron||Marvel
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| Venom||Marvel
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}{{r|ref2|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}}
|-
| Vergil||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Viewtiful Joe||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| War Machine||Marvel
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}{{r|ref2|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Winter Soldier||Marvel
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}}
|-
| Wolverine||Marvel
| {{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}{{r|ref6|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| X||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}
|-
| X-23||Marvel
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Zangief||Capcom
| {{Ya}}||{{Ya}}{{r|ref2|group=Note}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}
|-
| Zero||Capcom
| {{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Na}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}||{{Ya}}
|- class="sortbottom" style="text-align:center;"
! colspan="2"|'''Total'''{{r|ref7|group=Note}}
||'''18'''
||'''20'''
||'''17'''
||'''56'''
||'''38'''
||'''51'''
||'''36'''
|}
;Notes
{{reflist|group=Note|refs=
<ref name=ref1>Players can fight as final boss characters Apocalypse, Cyber Akuma, Galactus, and Onslaught against waves of AI-controlled enemies in their games' respective boss modes.</ref>
<ref name=ref2>Alternate, palette-swapped versions of Blackheart (Mephisto), Captain America (U.S. Agent), Charlie (Shadow), Chun-Li (Shadow Lady), Hulk (Orange Hulk), Morrigan (Lilith), Sakura (Sunburned Sakura), Spider-Man (Armored Spider-Man), Venom (Hyper Venom), War Machine (Mega War Machine), and Zangief (Mech-Zangief) appear as secret characters.</ref>
<ref name=ref3>Norimaro is exclusive to the Japanese arcade and console versions of ''Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter''.</ref>
<ref name=ref4>In ''Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes'', Ryu has an ability called "Complete Change", which allows him to change his moveset into Ken's or Akuma's.</ref>
<ref name=ref5>Appears as an assist character.</ref>
<ref name=ref6>An alternate version of Wolverine, named Bone Claw Wolverine, appears as a separate playable character in ''Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes''.</ref>
<ref name=ref7>Totals include playable boss characters and [[Software:Downloadable content|downloadable content]] characters, where applicable.</ref>
}}


==History==
[[File:E3 2019 Electronic Entertainment Expo (48044948312).jpg|thumb|''Marvel Super Heroes'' at E3 2019]]

Capcom's partnership with Marvel Comics began in 1993 with the release of ''[[Software:The Punisher (1993 video game)|The Punisher]]'', an arcade [[Software:Beat 'em up|beat 'em up]] based on the comic book series of the same name.<ref name="CompleteWorks" /> Capcom then created their first Marvel-licensed fighting game, ''X-Men: Children of the Atom'', in 1994.<ref name="CompleteWorks" /> ''Marvel Super Heroes'' soon followed in 1995.<ref name="CompleteWorks" /> Many of the gameplay mechanics used in the ''Marvel vs. Capcom'' series were first developed and refined in these two fighting games, serving as precursors to the series.<ref name="Killian">{{cite video|people=Killian, Seth|date=February 11, 2011|title=Marvel vs Capcom: a history of the Vs fighting series|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EysnJBzlEtg| archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211117/EysnJBzlEtg| archive-date=2021-11-17 | url-status=live|website=GamesRadar|access-date=January 20, 2017|time=00:17-00:52|quote=Seth Killian: So the history of the Versus series technically starts with X-Men vs. Street Fighter, but many fighting aficionados including myself really date some of the origins back to games called X-Men: Children of the Atom and Marvel Super Heroes which introduced things like chain combo and aerial rave [...] all of that lead us eventually into X-Men vs. Street Fighter...}}{{cbignore}}</ref> In 2011, then-current Capcom USA Strategic Marketing Director of Online and Community Seth Killian stated that many fighting game aficionados, including himself, consider them to have laid the foundation for the series.<ref name="Killian" />

The idea for implementing tag teams was allegedly inspired by an [[Easter egg (media)|easter egg]] from Capcom's own 1995 fighting game ''Street Fighter Alpha: Warriors' Dreams''.<ref name=ScreenRant>{{cite web|url=http://screenrant.com/marvel-vs-capcom-4-infinite-trivia-facts/|date=December 8, 2016|access-date=February 21, 2017|last=Pascual|first=Oliver|website=Screen Rant|title=15 Things You Didn't Know About Marvel Vs. Capcom}}</ref> In a secret "Dramatic Battle" mode, two players, controlling Ryu and Ken, were able to fight against an AI-controlled M. Bison at the same time.<ref name=ScreenRant/> The easter egg itself had drawn inspiration from the final battle sequence from ''Street Fighter II: The Animated Movie'', which featured a similar fight scene.<ref name=ScreenRant/> Recognizing the uniqueness of a team-up concept, Capcom began to work on their next project.<ref name=ScreenRant/> After their earlier licensing ventures with ''Children of the Atom'' and ''Marvel Super Heroes'', the company decided to combine Marvel's ''X-Men'' franchise, their own ''Street Fighter'' franchise, and their team-up concept, leading to the creation of ''X-Men vs. Street Fighter''.<ref name=ScreenRant/><ref>{{cite web|title=IGN Presents the History of Street Fighter|website=IGN|last=McLaughlin|first=Rus|date=February 16, 2009|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2009/02/16/ign-presents-the-history-of-street-fighter?page=7|access-date=January 22, 2017}}</ref> The game debuted in Japanese arcades in 1996, establishing the series' fast-paced, tag team-based gameplay style.<ref name=History/>

''Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter'' was then released in 1997, which replaced most of the ''X-Men'' cast with other heroes from the Marvel Universe and introduced the character assist mechanic.<ref name=EuroG/> ''Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes'' later followed in 1998, exchanging the majority of the ''Street Fighter'' cast with characters from other Capcom video games series, such as ''[[Software:Mega Man|Mega Man]]'' and ''Darkstalkers''.<ref name=EuroG/><ref name=History/> In 1999, Capcom announced the development of yet another sequel, called ''Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/1999/08/18/marvel-vs-capcom-2-on-the-way|date=August 17, 1999|access-date=January 22, 2017|last=Langan|first=Matthew|website=IGN|title=Marvel Vs Capcom 2 On The Way?}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/1999/12/02/marvel-vs-capcom-2-and-power-stone-2-officially-announced|date=December 1, 1999|access-date=January 22, 2017|last=Gantayat|first=Anoop|website=IGN|title=Marvel vs Capcom 2 and Power Stone 2 Officially Announced}}</ref> ''Marvel vs. Capcom 2'' heavily re-used assets from previous Capcom-developed games, including ''Street Fighter Alpha'', ''Darkstalkers'', and the earlier ''Marvel vs. Capcom'' titles, resulting in a large roster of 56 playable characters.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/265496/17_moldbreaking_fighting_games_that_all_developers_should_study.php|date=February 11, 2016|access-date=January 22, 2017|last=Miller|first=Patrick|website=Gamasutra|title=17 mold-breaking fighting games that all developers should study}}</ref> Shortly after the release of the PlayStation 2 and Xbox ports for ''Marvel vs. Capcom 2'', Capcom lost the use of the Marvel license, putting the series on an indefinite hiatus.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.siliconera.com/2009/07/29/you-know-porting-marvel-vs-capcom-2-wasnt-easy/|date=July 29, 2009|access-date=January 22, 2017|last=Yip|first=Spencer|website=Siliconera|title=You Know, Porting Marvel vs. Capcom 2 Wasn't Easy}}</ref> However, with the resurgence of 2D fighting games in 2008, owing to the success of ''[[Software:Street Fighter IV|Street Fighter IV]]'', Marvel requested Capcom to collaborate with them once again.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.capcom.co.jp/ir/english/interview/2017/vol01/|date=November 8, 2017|access-date=November 8, 2017|last=Ono|first=Yoshinori|website=[[Company:Capcom|Capcom]]|title=Interview 01: Seeking a Fighting Game with Infinite Potential - The Celebrated Crossover Franchise Returns}}</ref> Capcom would announce the development of the next installment in the ''Marvel vs. Capcom'' series, ''Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds'', in 2010.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/marvel-vs-capcom-3-due-q2-2011-on-ps3-360/1100-6259100/|date=April 20, 2010|access-date=January 22, 2017|last=Thorsen|first=Tor|website=GameSpot|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 3 due Q2 2011 on PS3, 360}}</ref> The game was eventually released in 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/shippin-out-february-13-19-marvel-vs-capcom-3/1100-6298532/|date=February 14, 2011|access-date=January 22, 2017|last=Makuch|first=Eddie|website=GameSpot|title=Shippin' Out February 13–19: Marvel vs. Capcom 3}}</ref> An updated version of ''Marvel vs. Capcom 3'', titled ''Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3'', was released later in the same year.<ref name=Ultimate/> The high-definition compilation game ''Marvel vs. Capcom Origins'' was then released in 2012.<ref name=Origins/>

Following the release of ''Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3'' for the PlayStation Vita in 2012, Marvel's new parent company, [[Company:The Walt Disney Company|The Walt Disney Company]], which acquired Marvel in 2009, chose not to renew Capcom's license with the Marvel characters, instead opting to put them in its own self-published ''Disney Infinity'' series.<ref name=ComicsBeat>{{cite web|url=http://www.comicsbeat.com/theres-a-growing-rumor-about-a-new-marvel-vs-capcom-game-in-2017/|date=November 28, 2016|access-date=January 22, 2017|last=Nieves|first=David|website=The Beat|title=There's a growing rumor about a new Marvel vs. Capcom game in 2017}}</ref><ref name=Karmali>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/01/02/marvel-titles-no-longer-available-digitally|date=January 2, 2014|access-date=January 22, 2017|last=Karmali|first=Luke|website=IGN|title=Marvel Titles No Longer Available Digitally}}</ref> As a result, Capcom had to pull both ''Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3'' and ''Marvel vs. Capcom 2'' off their online platforms in 2013.<ref name=ComicsBeat/><ref name=Karmali/> However, in 2016, Disney announced its decision to cancel the ''Disney Infinity'' series, discontinue self-publishing efforts, and switch to a licensing-only model, allowing them to license their characters to third-party game developers, including Capcom.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/05/10/disney-cancels-infinity-no-longer-self-publishing-games|date=May 10, 2016|access-date=January 22, 2017|last=Macy|first=Seth G.|website=IGN|title=Disney Cancels Infinity, No Longer Self-Publishing Games}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2016/8/18/12514296/disney-game-industry-history|date=August 18, 2016|access-date=January 22, 2017|last=Clark|first=Willie|website=Polygon|title=Disney's Many, Many Attempts at Figuring Out the Game Industry}}</ref> ''Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite'' was revealed in 2016, and then released in 2017.<ref name=Infinite1/><ref name=Infinite2/>

==Reception==
{{VG Series Reviews
|gr = yes
|game1 = [[Software:X-Men vs. Street Fighter|X-Men vs. Street Fighter]]
|gr1 = 64% (PS)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamerankings.com/ps/199373-x-men-vs-street-fighter/index.html |title=X-Men vs. Street Fighter for PlayStation |website=GameRankings |access-date=January 22, 2017}}</ref><br>82% (SAT)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamerankings.com/saturn/199374-x-men-vs-street-fighter/index.html |title=X-Men vs. Street Fighter for Saturn |website=GameRankings |access-date=January 22, 2017}}</ref>
|mc1 = N/A
|game2 = [[Software:Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter|Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter]]
|gr2 = 74% (PS)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamerankings.com/ps/197866-marvel-super-heroes-vs-street-fighter/index.html |title=Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter for PlayStation |website=GameRankings |access-date=January 22, 2017}}</ref><br> 77% (SAT)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamerankings.com/saturn/197867-marvel-super-heroes-vs-street-fighter/index.html |title=Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter for Saturn |website=GameRankings |access-date=January 22, 2017}}</ref>
|mc2 = N/A
|game3 = [[Software:Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes|Marvel vs. Capcom]]
|gr3 = 80% (DC)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamerankings.com/dreamcast/197868-marvel-vs-capcom/index.html |title=Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes for Dreamcast |website=GameRankings |access-date=January 22, 2017}}</ref><br> 75% (PS)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamerankings.com/ps/197869-marvel-vs-capcom-clash-of-super-heroes/index.html |title=Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes for PlayStation |website=GameRankings |access-date=January 22, 2017}}</ref>
|mc3 = N/A
|game4 = Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes
|gr4 = 90% (DC)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/dreamcast/914427-marvel-vs-capcom-2/index.html|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=GameRankings|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2 for Dreamcast - GameRankings}}</ref><br> 76% (PS2)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/ps2/561477-marvel-vs-capcom-2/index.html|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=GameRankings|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2 for PlayStation 2 - GameRankings}}</ref><br> 67% (Xbox)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/xbox/561479-marvel-vs-capcom-2/index.html|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=GameRankings|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2 for Xbox - GameRankings}}</ref><br> 83% (X360)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/xbox360/959864-marvel-vs-capcom-2/index.html |access-date=January 22, 2017|website=GameRankings|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2 for Xbox 360 - GameRankings}}</ref><br> 86% (PS3)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/ps3/959865-marvel-vs-capcom-2/index.html|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=GameRankings|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2 for PlayStation 3 - GameRankings}}</ref><br> 61% (iOS)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/iphone/667771-marvel-vs-capcom-2/index.html|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=GameRankings|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2 for iOS (iPhone/iPad) - GameRankings}}</ref>
|mc4 = 90/100 (DC)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/marvel-vs-capcom-2/critic-reviews/?platform=dreamcast|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=Metacritic|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2 for Dreamcast Reviews - Metacritic}}</ref><br> 76/100 (PS2)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/marvel-vs-capcom-2/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-2|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=Metacritic|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2 for PlayStation 2 Reviews - Metacritic}}</ref><br> 65/100 (Xbox)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/marvel-vs-capcom-2/critic-reviews/?platform=xbox|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=Metacritic|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2 for Xbox Reviews - Metacritic}}</ref><br> 82/100 (X360)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/marvel-vs-capcom-2/critic-reviews/?platform=xbox-360|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=Metacritic|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2 for Xbox 360 Reviews - Metacritic}}</ref><br> 85/100 (PS3)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/marvel-vs-capcom-2/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-3|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=Metacritic|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2 for PlayStation 3 Reviews - Metacritic}}</ref><br> 64/100 (iOS)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/marvel-vs-capcom-2/critic-reviews/?platform=ios-iphoneipad|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=Metacritic|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2 for iPhone/iPad Reviews - Metacritic}}</ref>
|game5 = Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds
|gr5 = 86% (X360)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/xbox360/995376-marvel-vs-capcom-3-fate-of-two-worlds/index.html|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=GameRankings|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds for Xbox 360 - GameRankings}}</ref><br>86% (PS3)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/ps3/995375-marvel-vs-capcom-3-fate-of-two-worlds/index.html|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=GameRankings|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds for PlayStation 3 - GameRankings}}</ref>
|mc5 = 85/100 (X360)<ref name=MCX360>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/marvel-vs-capcom-3-fate-of-two-worlds/critic-reviews/?platform=xbox-360|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=Metacritic|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds for Xbox 360 Reviews, Ratings, Credits, and More at Metacritic}}</ref><br>84/100 (PS3)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/marvel-vs-capcom-3-fate-of-two-worlds/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-3|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=Metacritic|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds for PlayStation 3 Reviews, Ratings, Credits, and More at Metacritic}}</ref>
|game6 = [[Software:Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3|Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3]]
|gr6 = 81% (PS3)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/ps3/637240-ultimate-marvel-vs-capcom-3/index.html|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=GameRankings|title=Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 for PlayStation 3 - GameRankings}}</ref><br>81% (X360)<ref name=GRX360>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/xbox360/637241-ultimate-marvel-vs-capcom-3/index.html|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=GameRankings|title=Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 for Xbox 360 - GameRankings}}</ref><br> 82% (Vita)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/vita/643141-ultimate-marvel-vs-capcom-3/|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=GameRankings|title=Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 for PlayStation Vita - GameRankings}}</ref><br>79% (PS4)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/ps4/202470-ultimate-marvel-vs-capcom-3/index.html|access-date=February 24, 2017|website=GameRankings|title=Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 for PlayStation 4 - GameRankings}}</ref>
|mc6 = 80/100 (PS3)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/ultimate-marvel-vs-capcom-3/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-3|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=Metacritic|title=Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 for PlayStation 3 Reviews, Ratings, Credits, and More at Metacritic}}</ref><br>79/100 (X360)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/ultimate-marvel-vs-capcom-3/critic-reviews/?platform=xbox-360|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=Metacritic|title=Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 for Xbox 360 Reviews, Ratings, Credits, and More at Metacritic}}</ref><br/>80/100 (Vita)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/ultimate-marvel-vs-capcom-3/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-vita|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=Metacritic|title=Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 for PlayStation Vita Reviews, Ratings, Credits, and More at Metacritic}}</ref><br>77/100 (PS4)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/ultimate-marvel-vs-capcom-3/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-4|access-date=February 24, 2017|website=Metacritic|title=Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 for PlayStation 4 Reviews, Ratings, Credits, and More at Metacritic}}</ref>
|game7 = [[Software:Marvel vs. Capcom Origins|Marvel vs. Capcom Origins]]
|gr7 = 72% (PS3)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/ps3/676132-marvel-vs-capcom-origins/index.html|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=GameRankings|title=Marvel vs. Capcom Origins for PlayStation 3}}</ref><br>80% (X360)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/xbox360/676131-marvel-vs-capcom-origins/index.html|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=GameRankings|title=Marvel vs. Capcom Origins for Xbox 360}}</ref>
|mc7 = 72/100 (PS3)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/marvel-vs-capcom-origins/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-3|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=Metacritic|title=Marvel vs. Capcom Origins for PlayStation 3 Reviews, Ratings, Credits, and More}}</ref><br>78/100 (X360)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/marvel-vs-capcom-origins/critic-reviews/?platform=xbox-360|access-date=January 22, 2017|website=Metacritic|title=Marvel vs. Capcom Origins for Xbox 360 Reviews, Ratings, Credits, and More}}</ref>
|game8 = [[Software:Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite|Marvel vs. Capcom]]
|gr8 = 71% (PS4)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamerankings.com/ps4/202465-marvel-vs-capcom-infinite/index.html|access-date=October 21, 2017|website=GameRankings|title=Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite for PlayStation 4}}</ref><br>77% (XONE)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamerankings.com/xboxone/202474-marvel-vs-capcom-infinite/index.html|access-date=October 21, 2017|website=GameRankings|title=Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite for Xbox One}}</ref><br>70% (PC)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamerankings.com/pc/202527-marvel-vs-capcom-infinite/index.html|access-date=October 21, 2017|website=GameRankings|title=Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite for PC}}</ref>
|mc8 = 72/100 (PS4)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/marvel-vs-capcom-infinite/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-4|access-date=October 21, 2017|website=Metacritic|title=Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite for PlayStation 4 Reviews, Ratings, Credits, and More}}</ref><br>77/100 (XONE)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/marvel-vs-capcom-infinite/critic-reviews/?platform=xbox-one|date=September 18, 2017|access-date=October 21, 2017|website=Metacritic|title=Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite for Xbox One Reviews, Ratings, Credits, and More}}</ref><br>69/100 (PC)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/marvel-vs-capcom-infinite/critic-reviews/?platform=pc|access-date=October 21, 2017|website=Metacritic|title=Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite for PC Reviews, Ratings, Credits, and More}}</ref>
}}
The ''Marvel vs. Capcom'' series has received reviews ranging from average to positive from critics. According to Capcom President and [[Social:Chief operating officer|COO]] Haruhiro Tsujimoto, the games have enjoyed broad appeal, especially in markets outside of Japan.<ref name=PressRelease>{{cite web|url=http://www.capcom.co.jp/ir/english/news/html/e161205b.html|date=December 5, 2016|access-date=January 22, 2017|last=Tsujimoto|first=Haruhiro|website=[[Company:Capcom|Capcom]]|title=Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite Announced!}}</ref> {{As of|2021|6}}, {{nowrap|10 million}} units of the series have been sold, making it Capcom's seventh best-selling franchise.<ref>[https://www.capcom.co.jp/ir/english/finance/salesdata.html CAPCOM | Game Series Sales]</ref>

The series' first three titles, ''X-Men vs. Street Fighter'', ''Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter'', and ''Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes'', received praise for their frantic gameplay style, visual flair, playable character rosters, and the quality of their sprite animations.<ref name=GSpotSAT/><ref name=GIReviewSAT/><ref name=GIReview>{{cite magazine |url=http://gameinformer.com/reviews/review_detail.cfm?ITEM_ID=4233 |title=Marvel Vs. Capcom [Clash of Super Heroes] - Dreamcast |last1=McNamara |first1=Andy |last2=Anderson |first2=Paul |last3=Reiner |first3=Andrew |magazine=Game Informer |issue=78 |date=October 1999 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20001203224700/http://gameinformer.com/reviews/review_detail.cfm?ITEM_ID=4233 |archive-date=December 3, 2000 |url-status=dead |access-date=January 23, 2017}}</ref> The games' Dreamcast and Sega Saturn ports were also lauded for their technical performance, matching the capabilities of the arcade versions.<ref name=GSpotSAT/><ref name=GIReviewSAT/><ref name=GIReview/> Conversely, the PlayStation ports were criticized for their removal of tag team battles and noticeable decline in frame rate and animation quality – changes which stemmed from the console's RAM limitations.<ref name=GameSpotReview/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/x-men-vs-street-fighter-review/1900-2550327/ |title=X-Men vs. Street Fighter Review (PS) |last=Gerstmann |first=Jeff |website=GameSpot |date=March 17, 1998 |access-date=January 23, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/1999/02/26/marvel-super-heroes-vs-street-fighter |title=Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter (PS) |last=Nelson |first=Randy |website=IGN |date=February 25, 1999 |access-date=January 23, 2017}}</ref>

''Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes'' received similar praise, with particular attention given towards the large cast and the addition of three-on-three combat.<ref name=Anoop/><ref name=Gerstmann>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/marvel-vs-capcom-2-review/1900-2580028/|date=May 31, 2000|access-date=January 23, 2017|last=Gerstmann|first=Jeff|website=GameSpot|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2 Review}}</ref> The Dreamcast, PlayStation 2, and Xbox versions were criticized for their lack of online multiplayer support outside Japan.<ref name=Gerstmann/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2003/04/01/marvel-vs-capcom-2-review-2|date=April 1, 2003|access-date=January 23, 2017|last=Boulding|first=Aaron|website=IGN|title=Marvel vs Capcom 2 Review}}</ref> These concerns were addressed with the release of the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 ports, which reviewers commended for their smooth online experience.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.destructoid.com/review-marvel-vs-capcom-2-142074.phtml|date=July 31, 2009|access-date=January 23, 2017|last1=Cantler|first1=Topher|last2=Holmes|first2=Jonathan|website=[[Social:Destructoid|Destructoid]]|title=Review: Marvel vs. Capcom 2}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.videogamer.com/xbox360/mvc2/review-2.html|date=July 29, 2009|access-date=January 23, 2017|last=Yin-Poole|first=Wesley|website=VideoGamer.com|title=MvC2 Review}}</ref> A common source of complaints was the game's jazz-inspired soundtrack, which critics deemed as out of place.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2002/11/18/marvel-vs-capcom-2|date=November 18, 2002|access-date=January 23, 2017|last=Dunham|first=Jeremy|website=IGN|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_mvc2_ps2|date=December 26, 2002|access-date=January 23, 2017|last=Taylor|first=Martin|work=Eurogamer|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 2}}</ref>

In addition to its character variety and visual presentation, ''Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds'' garnered praise for simplifying the series' combat mechanics and control scheme, thus making it more accessible for players new to fighting games.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/marvel-vs-capcom-3-fate-of-two-worlds-review/1900-6298805/|date=February 14, 2011|access-date=January 23, 2017|last=McGee|first=Maxwell|website=GameSpot|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds Review}}</ref><ref name=George>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/02/14/marvel-vs-capcom-3-review|date=February 14, 2011|access-date=January 23, 2017|last=George|first=Richard|website=IGN|title=Marvel vs. Capcom 3 Review}}</ref> ''Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom'' was applauded for its additions to the character roster, gameplay tweaks, and improved online functionality.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/ultimate-marvel-vs-capcom-3-review/1900-6345660/|date=November 14, 2011|access-date=January 23, 2017|last=McGee|first=Maxwell|website=GameSpot|title=Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 Reviews on Xbox 360}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/121/1212390p1.html|date=November 14, 2011|access-date=January 23, 2017|last=Hopper|first=Steven|website=IGN|title=Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 Review - PlayStation 3 Review at IGN}}</ref> Both games, however, were criticized for their lack of game modes and single-player content.<ref name=George/><ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.gameinformer.com/games/ultimate_marvel_vs_capcom_3/b/xbox360/archive/2011/11/14/ultimate-marvel-vs-capcom-3-review.aspx|date=November 14, 2011|access-date=January 23, 2017|last=Turi|first=Tim|magazine=Game Informer|title=Ultimate Marvel Vs. Capcom 3 Review}}</ref> ''Marvel vs. Capcom Origins'' was praised for preserving the original arcade releases' integrity and its addition of online multiplayer, dynamic challenges, and unlockable content; however, in remaining faithful to the arcade versions, some reviewers criticized the games for their outdated gameplay and unbalanced fighters.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.egmnow.com/articles/reviews/egm-review-marvel-vs-capcom-origins/|date=October 19, 2012|access-date=January 23, 2017|last=Carsillo|first=Ray|magazine=Electronic Gaming Monthly|title=EGM Review: Marvel vs Capcom Origins}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2012/09/26/marvel-vs-capcom-origins-review|date=September 26, 2012|access-date=January 23, 2017|last=Cocke|first=Taylor|website=IGN|title=Marvel vs. Capcom Origins Review}}</ref> ''Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite'' received mixed to positive reviews, with critics praising its implementation of new gameplay mechanics, such as the "Active Switch" combo system and the addition of the six Infinity Stones.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.gameinformer.com/games/marvel_vs_capcom_infinite/b/playstation4/archive/2017/09/18/marvel-vs-capcom-infinite-game-informer-review.aspx|date=September 18, 2017|access-date=September 18, 2017|last=Reeves|first=Ben|magazine=Game Informer|title=Battle Of The Brands - Marvel Vs. Capcom: Infinite}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/09/18/marvel-vs-capcom-infinite-review|date=September 18, 2017|access-date=September 18, 2017|last=Huskey|first=Darry|website=IGN|title=Marvel Vs Capcom: Infinite Review}}</ref> On the other hand, the game was criticized for its presentation, particularly its art direction, and its character roster.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.destructoid.com/review-marvel-vs-capcom-infinite-460396.phtml|date=September 18, 2017|access-date=September 19, 2017|last=Carter|first=Chris|website=[[Social:Destructoid|Destructoid]]|title=Review: Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.polygon.com/2017/9/18/16323994/marvel-vs-capcom-infinite-review|date=September 18, 2017|access-date=September 18, 2017|last1=Stark|first1=Chelsea|last2=Ramos|first2=Jeff|website=Polygon|title=Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite review}}</ref>

In 2012, ''Complex'' ranked ''Marvel vs. Capcom'' at number 37 on the list of the best video game franchises, commenting that "a frenetic pace and over the top effects work together to make this franchise stand the test of time".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/video-games/2012/09/the-50-best-video-game-franchises/marvel-vs-capcom|date=September 25, 2012|access-date=January 23, 2017|last1=Jones|first1=Elton|last2=Vincent|first2=Brittany|last3=Hester|first3=Larry|website=Complex|title=The 50 Best Video Game Franchises}}</ref>

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==References==
'''Notes'''
{{notelist}}
'''Footnotes'''
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*{{KLOV game|id=8636|name=Marvel vs. Capcom}} - Arcade version

{{Marvel Video Game Crossovers}}

[[Category:Arcade video games]]
[[Category:Fighting games]]

{{Sourceattribution|Marvel vs. Capcom}}