Marvel vs Capcom 3 gets Ultimate upgrade

Capcom has announced an expanded and updated version of extravagant brawler Marvel vs Capcom 3.

Called Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3, it includes a total of 12 new characters spread across the two universes, meaning a total of 50 characters will be included on the disc. Online functionality and overall balance has also been tweaked.

The game will sell at a budget price – $39.99 in the US – and will ship on disc.

When Capcom chose the very same strategy for Street Fighter IV it was criticised for failing to ride the digital sales wave and releasing the upgrade digitally. At the time Capcom said that the update changed so many of the hidden technical elements of the original that a full disc based release was required.

What could the reason be this time? MCV would hazard that the commercial success of Super Street Fighter IV is likely to be the motivation.

That’s not Capcom’s official line, however.

"Right now, we’re only thinking about releasing a disc version," producer Ryota Niitsuma told Siliconera.

"Given the development schedule, there wasn’t enough time to work out all of the details to release it as downloadable content, as well. Also, for the reason you mentioned, there is so much data in the game it was easier to go this route."

Confirmed characters so far include Capcom icon Strider, Ghost ‘n’ Goblins baddie Firebrand and Marvel starlets Ghost Rider and Hawkeye.

Joystiq claims to have word on the full roster of additions. The Capcom camp will bring with it Vergil, Frank West, Phoenix Wright and Nemesis while the other Marvel additions are Dr Strange, Nova, Rocket Raccoon and Iron Fist.

Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3 will be released on PS3 and Xbox 360 this November.