Superman may be one of the most iconic superheroes of all time, but his video game legacy is all over the place. Some games get it right—capturing the power, nobility, and epic scale of the Man of Steel. Others… well, let’s just say not even Lex Luthor could’ve sabotaged them worse.

Whether you’re a lifelong DC Comics fan or just curious how Superman has fared in gaming history, we’ve compiled a list of the 5 best and 5 worst Superman games ever made.

🏆 The 5 Best Superman Games

1. Injustice 2 (2017)

Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Developer: NetherRealm Studios

Superman isn’t the hero we remember in Injustice 2, but that’s what makes it interesting. After the events of the first game, this version of Kal-El has gone full authoritarian. The story mode is one of the best in any fighting game, and Supes is a force to be reckoned with.

Why it’s great: Cinematic storytelling, smooth fighting mechanics, and a darker take on Superman that still feels true to the character.

Related Post: The 10 Best Superhero Games of All Time (internal link suggestion)

2. Lego DC Super-Villains (2018)

Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC
Developer: TT Games

This one flips the script by putting villains in the spotlight, but Superman still plays a major role. It’s charming, funny, and packed with fan service. Plus, flying around as Lego Superman is more fun than it should be.

Why it’s great: Humor, creativity, and a surprisingly detailed DC Universe sandbox.

3. Superman: Shadow of Apokolips (2002)

Platforms: PS2, GameCube
Developer: Infogrames

This cel-shaded title is based on Superman: The Animated Series and nails the art style. While the controls can be stiff, it was a sincere attempt to give fans a faithful Superman experience.

Why it’s great: Authentic animated feel and a solid roster of villains like Lex Luthor and Darkseid.

4. DC Universe Online (2011–Present)

Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Developer: Daybreak Game Company

You don’t play as Superman, but you fight with or against him. This MMO still thrives thanks to frequent content updates and a huge community. Superman is central to many story arcs, and his presence is always felt.

Why it’s great: Epic scale, customizable heroes, and solid fan service.

5. The Death and Return of Superman (1994)

Platforms: SNES, Sega Genesis
Developer: Sunsoft / Blizzard Entertainment

This side-scrolling beat-’em-up adapts the classic ’90s comic arc where Superman dies and comes back… with a mullet. You get to play as Steel, Superboy, and other Reign of the Supermen characters.

Why it’s great: Classic brawler gameplay with deep comic book roots.

🚫 The 5 Worst Superman Games

1. Superman 64 (1999)

Platform: Nintendo 64
Developer: Titus Software

Let’s be honest, this one is infamous for a reason. Unfinished mechanics, relentless fog, and endless ring-flying missions made it nearly unplayable.

Why it’s awful: It’s broken. Glitched. Infuriating. It’s Superman 64.

2. Superman: The Man of Steel (2002)

Platform: Xbox
Developer: Circus Freak Studios

Despite some interesting open-world elements, this Xbox exclusive couldn’t deliver a compelling experience. Controls were a mess and combat was boring.

Why it’s awful: Dull missions, weak flight mechanics, and zero payoff.

3. Superman: Countdown to Apokolips (2003)

Platform: Game Boy Advance
Developer: Mistic Software

A top-down action title with minimal personality. Superman feels powerless, and the repetition is brutal.

Why it’s awful: Feels like a generic action game with a Superman skin.

4. Justice League: Chronicles (2003)

Platform: Game Boy Advance
Developer: Full Fat

While it’s a Justice League title, Superman gets screen time—and not in a good way. Shoddy hit detection and basic level design make this game a chore.

Why it’s awful: Low-effort design, poor performance, and wasted potential.

5. Superman (Atari 2600) (1979)

Platform: Atari 2600
Developer: Atari, Inc.

This was revolutionary in its time, sure. But today, it’s mostly a curiosity. You fly around saving citizens in a very pixelated Metropolis, and that’s about it.

Why it’s awful (by modern standards): Incredibly dated and unintuitive.

✨ Final Thoughts: Superman Deserves Better

It’s wild that in an age where Batman has the Arkham series and Spider-Man is swinging high on PS5, Superman still hasn’t had a modern solo game that truly soars. There’s massive potential for a next-gen Man of Steel game—whether it’s open-world, story-driven, or something entirely new.

Until then, we’ll keep flying through these hits and misses.

💬 What’s Your Take?

Have a favorite Superman game we didn’t mention? Want to rage about Superman 64 some more? Drop your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your takes!