Last column, I discussed superhero videogames, why they often don't work, and the two elements that would come together to make them work, or at least not suck.
Those two elements? The “thematic" elements (look, story, writing, acting) and the “mechanical” elements of gameplay and game system.
I've come to the conclusion that the big problem superhero games is that the mechanical elements are often done wrong, poorly, or use inappropriate elements from common gaming systems and tropes. Thematic element problems can usually be cured with the right graphics, writer, and self-respect. Mechanical elements on the other hand, seem to be harder.