The Inspiration Behind Marvel Rivals’ Human Torch Negative Zone Gladiator Skin

With the launch of the latter half of Season 1 in Marvel Rivals, fans of the wildly popular first-person shooter were thrilled to welcome the remaining duo of Marvel’s original superhero squad. Players can now jump into the action as the Human Torch and the Thing, rounding out the Fantastic Four alongside Mr. Fantastic and the Invisible Woman. Not just content with merely adding Johnny Storm and Ben Grimm to the roster, Marvel Rivals has dressed both new heroes in specially crafted skins. These fresh appearances both honor Marvel’s rich comic book heritage and introduce original designs that blend seamlessly into the game’s universe.

Bringing nostalgia to the forefront, the Human Torch and the Thing are outfitted in costumes inspired by the comics. Each one aligns with the classic looks from Fantastic Four Vol. 1 #3, dating back to 1961. Yet, there’s a twist. Along with a shared thematic costume, each Fantastic Four member sports its own distinctive skin that stands as a nod to their unique comic history.

Enter the “Negative Zone Gladiator” skin for Johnny Storm, a striking alternative outfit showcasing the Human Torch with shorter hair covered by an intriguing metallic design across most of his body and face. This particular style dips into the vast lore of the Fantastic Four, referencing a later chapter in the team’s adventures.

True to form, every costume in Marvel Rivals carries with it a narrative piece—an insightful quote and the context of the costume’s comic debut, a treat for die-hard fans and newcomers alike. Though there’s mention of the skin first appearing in Fantastic Four Vol. 3 #600, it’s worth noting for the uninitiated that this issue came out in 2011, not in the 1998 series.

The story behind Johnny Storm’s new look is woven deeply into the Fantastic Four legacy. Throughout their dimensions-spanning ventures, the Negative Zone has proven a frequent challenge, with Reed Richards discovering this universe brimming with antimatter way back in Fantastic Four Annual Vol. 1 #6 from 1963. Fast forward fifty years, and the Fantastic Four again finds themselves embroiled in conflict within this chaotic world, locked in battle against the sinister Cult of the Negative Zone.

The saga sees Johnny Storm in dire straits, as he faces down the menacing Annihilus Insectoid Soldiers without the Thing’s usual might at his side. In a desperate bid to save his allies, Johnny unleashes his nova flame but ultimately succumbs, captured and killed. It takes several painful rebirth attempts with the aid of worm healers before he can return to fight again, each ending fast as he burns out before full recovery.

However, in a wave of hope and resilience, Johnny claws back to life and prison—to meet the Light Brigade. Together, they rise against Annihilus, seizing the Cosmic Control Rod to open a portal, giving the Fantastic Four a path back to Earth. Johnny’s transformation, arising from his trials in the Negative Zone, brings about the edgy and fierce persona that inspired the “Negative Zone Gladiator” outfit in Marvel Rivals, capturing his journey from defeat to triumphant return.

Expect nothing less than immersive storytelling and a richly woven narrative within the ever-expanding Marvel Rivals universe, where favorite superheroes continue to evolve, bringing newer dimensions into play.