Invincible VS, the highly anticipated tag-team fighter developed by Quarter Up, is set to expand the beloved universe created by Robert Kirkman, Corey Walker, and Ryan Ottley with the introduction of an exciting new character. In recent discussions with the development team—including Narrative Director Mike Rogers, Executive Producer Mike Willette, and Art Director Dan Eder—insights into the creation of the original character, Ella Mental, were unveiled, showcasing the deep investment the team has made in both gameplay mechanics and storytelling.
Overseen by Kirkman himself, Ella Mental brings unique elemental powers to the game’s dynamics. Joining a roster that includes familiar heroes from the Invincible series, her introduction offers players a fresh opportunity to explore tactical gameplay. The development team highlighted how her abilities will allow players to manipulate the battlefield in innovative ways, combining offensive and defensive strategies that reflect her distinctive personality. This character is not merely a playful addition; she’s designed to resonate with fans and newcomers alike, ensuring her powers complement the existing heroes without disrupting game balance.
“The challenge of creating an original character was significant,” Willette remarked, recalling how the team initially hesitated to dive into this creative endeavor. However, after discussing it with Kirkman, who embraced the idea, the character began to take shape. The brainstorming process included conceptual artwork by Cory Walker, which laid the groundwork for Ella’s engaging backstory and gameplay attributes.
Ella Mental will possess a striking arsenal of elemental abilities, such as controlling fire, wind, water, and earth. This brings an interactive layer to battles, allowing players to customize their strategies according to the diverse gameplay mechanics that the game provides. Willette explained how these powers were intricately linked to the tag-team combat system, allowing for versatile attacks and defensive maneuvers that differentiate her from other characters in the game.
Art Director Dan Eder commented on the complexity of designing such a character, emphasizing the careful balance of creativity and practicality. “We wanted to make sure we didn’t limit ourselves creatively while ensuring Ella Mental was manageable within our production constraints,” he said. The collaborative effort within Quarter Up has allowed the team to create a character that is both visually stunning and functional within the game’s framework.
Significantly, Ella’s design incorporates considerations for character interactions and personality, aiding in her integration into the Invincible universe. According to Rogers, the collaborative effort with writers from both the comic and the video game has been instrumental in making her feel like an intrinsic part of the franchise. The interplay between her personality and how she engages with established characters was key to her development.
Voice acting also plays a crucial role in bringing Ella Mental to life, with Grammy-nominated artist Tierra Whack lending her talents to the character. Whack is expected to infuse Ella with a vibrant presence and depth that aligns perfectly with the tone of the Invincible saga. Rogers voiced excitement over collaborating with Whack, noting how she enhances the character through her unique perspective.
Scheduled for release on April 30, 2026, for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC at a price of $49.99, Invincible VS promises to deliver not only an engaging tag-team fighting experience but also a robust narrative woven through its characters, including the fresh addition of Ella Mental. This commitment to honoring the original comic while introducing new elements provides a hopeful outlook for fans and gamers, ensuring that the legacy of Invincible continues to thrive in new and exciting ways.