Arc System Works revealed the first Year 1 DLC character for Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls during San Diego Comic-Con on July 23, 2026. Phoenix Cyclops, voiced by Ray Chase, will join the roster as an additional fighter inspired by the Phoenix Five incarnation from the Avengers vs. X-Men comic storyline.
This version of Cyclops combines his signature optic blasts and hand-to-hand combat with the fiery cosmic power of the Phoenix Force. The character’s inclusion marks the beginning of post-launch content for the fighting game, which is set to release later this year.
Alongside the DLC announcement, the team shared an anime-style opening movie, revealed collaboration costumes inspired by Insomniac Games’ Wolverine, and confirmed an open beta for PlayStation 5 and PC from July 24 to July 26. Here is everything announced and what it means for players.
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Phoenix Cyclops as First Year 1 DLC Character
Phoenix Cyclops is the first additional character in the Year 1 content plan for Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls. Producer Takeshi Yamanaka confirmed the character during the SDCC panel. Cyclops draws from his Phoenix Five appearance, giving him a new look and access to the Phoenix Force.
While gameplay details are still pending, the character is expected to use enhanced optic blasts and Phoenix Force abilities. Ray Chase, known for voicing Cyclops in other Marvel media, reprises the role. Arc System Works plans to share more about his fighting style in future updates.
Anime-Style Opening Movie and Theme Song
The game’s opening movie features animation by Sanzigen, a studio known for high-quality 2.5D visuals. The sequence blends classic fighting game openings with early 2000s anime aesthetics.
The theme song pairs two notable Japanese rock vocalists: Keiko Terada of SHOW-YA and mayu of NEMOPHILA. Their dual vocals bring energy to the track. Lyrics were written by Kanata Okajima, with composition and arrangement by MEG (MEGMETAL). The opening was directed by Daisuke Suzuki of Sanzigen, a self-described Marvel fan.
Insomniac Games Collaboration Costumes
Arc System Works has partnered with Insomniac Games to bring costumes from the upcoming Wolverine game to Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls. The Wolverine Battle Reborn Suit will be available as a free download starting September 1, 2026.
The collaboration extends to the Ultimate Edition, which includes a costume inspired by the Advanced Suit 2.0 from Marvel’s Spider-Man 2. The team also visited Insomniac’s studio for feedback during development.
Producer Yamanaka noted that alternate costumes have been limited in past Arc System Works titles, but the team is placing greater emphasis on costume variety for this game. More costumes are planned post-launch.
Open Beta and What Comes Next
The open beta runs from July 24 to July 26 on PlayStation 5 and PC. The roster has been expanded to include Green Goblin alongside the previously announced 15 characters, giving players a chance to test team-based battles.
This open beta is the final free preview before launch. Arc System Works has stated that launch is just the starting point, with plans for new characters, stages, and updates after release. Countdown illustrations from the development team and guest artists will also be shared in the lead-up to launch.
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