Disney Infinity 3.0: five reasons why Marvel Battlegrounds could be this year’s Super Smash Bros

Disney Infinity's Marvel Battlegrounds could be a bit of a game changer.

In fact, with its boisterous cartoon action, enormous roster of comic book heroes - from Hulkbuster to Ultron - and engaging multiplayer modes, Battlegrounds has every chance of becoming this year's Super Smash Bros.

Why? Credit lies with the addition a new four-person local multiplayer, where players can battle it out on 12 levels across eight worlds.

1) There are loads of play modes

There are plenty of modes to choose from – from Battlegrounds, a fight until the last man standing, Hero of the Hil, where two players team up to control an area of the map an earn points, and Super Hero, where gamers take it in turns to bring down a player capable of dealing more damage.

There's also the option to create your own rules, from tweaking time and health levels – much like the classic N64 shooter, Goldeneye – as well as a Rumble – a free-for-all that sees players knock each other out as any times as possible.

2) There are tonnes of super heroes to choose from

There are more than 25 playable Marvel characters, including fan favourites Ant-Man, Iron Man, Nick Fury and Thor.

Each Super Hero and Super Villain is able to instantly turn the tide of battle by using their special powers – whether that's Rocket Raccoon firing off some heat-seeking missiles, or Hulk using his "Raging Roar” to overpower up to three other opponents.

It's a shame, though, that you're not able to join forces with another player and unleash joint combo attacks – a feature that worked so well in LEGO Marvel Superheroes.

Nonetheless, the signature moves in the demo look fantastic - cutting away into a brief cut-scene before a devastating attack was unleashed.

3) The arenas fight back

It's made all the more effective by the destructible arenas, with ground that cracks and allows certain characters to pick up huge slabs of concrete and launch them at enemies.

Arenas also contain hazards, which can be used tactically to lure enemies to their doom. One level, for example, features a moving train that causes damage to characters who get in its way.

4) You’ll be fighting over extra powers

For those after an extra edge, up to six Marvel Power Discs can be added for each match, which unlock different abilities and can be stolen in-game if a character is knocked out.

5) You’ll want to get your hands on all the characters

Although the play-set only comes with Captain America, in a costume inspired by the upcoming Civil War movie, players will be able to trial other characters before they buy. That way, they can lean their play style and special moves and see if they suit.