Injustice: Gods Among Us may be the latest fighting game starring the heroes & villains of the DC Universe, but that doesn't mean their unique abilities will be confined to side-to-side brawling! As previewed by IGN, the battle arena is just the beginning!

S.T.A.R. Labs Mission Mode -- named for the eponymous science institution best remembered from Superman comics -- follows in the footsteps of NetherRealm Studios' Mortal Kombat Challenge Tower. Featuring mini-games, easter eggs and task-based challenges, the Mission Mode takes things even further than the 2011 predecessor, delving deeper into the world of DC Comics.

NetherRealm's Adam Urbano guides viewers through the basics of the mode in the IGN feature. The Senior Producer previews everything from the mundanity of tutorials, to the game-altering genre modes inspired by shooters, platformers & quick time events. In-built assets take on dramatic new contexts as missions bend the game into these unusual new forms.

Green Lantern enters a tug of war with the yellow energy of Sinestro; Black Adam fends off an asteroid assault, high above the Earth; and Aquaman uses marine telepathy to ward off the attack of a would-be shark ally. Twists on playable characters are sure to add plenty of extra amusement, but it's the exclusive Mission content that will pique the most interest!

Characters not featured in the main fighting game will make potentially galling appearances in S.T.A.R. Labs Mode, allowing players to control and combat some of the popular omissions. Cameo villains like Two-Face and Atrocitus get feature roles in the mode; while Trigon makes the leap from Raven's super-move, to STAR Labs opponent. The preview also includes the first distinct appearance of Martian Manhunter -- one of several "secret" characters who apparently make occasional cameos in arena backgrounds.

Like the Mortal Kombat Challenge Tower; players earn a mysterious unlockable bonus for completing the entire S.T.A.R. Labs Mode. With three objective stars to earn on each mission, replay value will also be awarded with achievements like the "World's Finest" 100pt trophy.

Additional missions expand the story and objectives of the game, available exclusively with pre-order bonus packs. Superman: Red Son and Blackest Night missions add story-driven content, and in the latters case, a special Zombie Mode. No other downloadable missions have been announced at this time [read more].

Thanks to MKOmmunity User for sharing this story. Join the action as we count down to the April 16 release of Injustice: Gods Among Us! Register to join the discussion in the DC Universe Injustice forum!