As video game fans around the world anxiously await the launch of Marvel’s upcoming Avengers game by Insomniac Games, a recent ransomware attack has thrown the whole project into chaos.
Just days before the deadline for the unnamed ransomware group’s ransom demand, an unknown user has leaked what appears to be assets of a yet-to-be-revealed Marvel character. The leaked asset is speculated to be Wolverine from the X-Men series.
The ransomware attack on Insomniac Games began last week with the hackers seeking a reported $10 million in exchange for the release of the company’s confidential data and assets. Insomniac Games has yet to comment on the leak or confirm its authenticity.
If the leak is indeed real, it suggests that Wolverine may be a part of the Avengers line-up alongside previously revealed characters like Iron Man, Captain America, and Thor. This would not be entirely unexpected given Wolverine’s wide popularity and his complex backstory.
Furthermore, the leak adds fuel to the already rampant speculation that Marvel will be introducing an all-new Avengers lineup for the upcoming game – suggesting that fans could potentially bear witness to the introduction of an all-new “Young Avengers”, complete with a new cast of characters.
Until Insomniac Games confirms the authenticity of the leak, however, the speculation should be taken with a grain of salt. Regardless, the ransomware attack has put Insomniac Games and the Avengers game in a difficult situation.
It remains to be seen what Insomniac Games will do in response to the attack or, indeed, if the leaked asset is actually Wolverine from the X-Men series. Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: this is an unfortunate situation for both Insomniac Games and the fans of the Marvel universe.