Pakistani-American superhero Kamala Khan to feature in latest game

Marvel’s first Muslim superhero, Kamala Khan, is all set to be a part of their blockbuster gaming roster alongside seasoned heroes like Iron Man, Hulk and Captain America.

As a Pakistani-American teenager, Khan – aka Ms Marvel – boasts shape-shifting powers, and was announced as one of the latest characters by the game’s publisher Square Enix. And not just that: she will also be central to the plot, reported BBC.

The move has gathered praise from fans and industry insiders alike, with many taking to social media to express their excitement at the representation in gaming that comes with it. BBC quoted a long time Muslim fan of franchise as saying, “I first heard of Ms Marvel from the comics a few years ago. I immediately thought it was so cool when I read her background was like mine, being Pakistani, Muslim and a girl. When I saw the announcement she is going to be in the game and one of the main characters, I just thought I’ve literally been waiting for something like this my whole life.”

The character of Kamala Khan is the brainchild of Marvel editor and director Sana Amanat, who is a Muslim-American herself. Khan was co-created by Amanat in 2014. Her inspiration stemmed from a desire to create a character that young girls of similar background could identify with.

“I think it’s absolutely insane that Kamala Khan is in one of the biggest Marvel games that we’ve done. The fact that she’s the entry point character in this game makes so much sense. People from all backgrounds can relate to her,” Amanat said during the game’s promotion.

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