X-Men: Next Dimension, coming from Activision and EXAKT Entertainment, is set to bring over twenty of the famous comic book characters to GameCube in a new fighting game with some interesting ideas driving it.

Rather than the standard fighting game rounds, Next Dimension features a more integrated approach to the level design. You’ll fight through large areas that take some damage during the battles and move on to the next area as you defeat your opponents. It sounds similar to the level progression in classic brawlers like Final Fight with a combat system that’s more like current 3-D fighters.

There will be eight maps total, but each will have numerous sections to complete before moving on. The game also boasts an original story that faces the X-Men against Bastion to tie it all together. No word on whether the bad guys will be playable characters, but a two-player mode will be included as well.

It all sounds good on paper, but the screenshots and impressions from those who have played it show otherwise. X-Men: Next Dimension doesn’t look too hot right now, and EXAKT Entertainment will be hard-pressed to get the game up to par in the few weeks left before print.