In the colorful and action-packed world ofLEGO Marvel’s Avengers, players experience many iconic scenes and moments pulled straight from the Marvel Cinematic Universe. One of the most memorable missions in the game is titled‘A Startling Metamorphosis’, inspired by the Hulk’s dramatic transformation in the Avengers storyline. This level stands out not only for its cinematic flair but also for its intense gameplay, puzzle-solving mechanics, and character-switching dynamics. Understanding how to navigate this mission is crucial for progressing through the main campaign and unlocking key characters and abilities.
Overview of A Startling Metamorphosis
A Startling Metamorphosisis one of the early missions in LEGO Marvel’s Avengers, re-creating the pivotal moment when Bruce Banner transforms into the Hulk aboard the Helicarrier during the first Avengers film. The level combines storytelling with interactive LEGO-style humor and tasks players with controlling multiple heroes to overcome escalating chaos.
Mission Location and Setup
This level takes place on the S.H.I.E.L.D. Helicarrier as Loki’s plan unfolds and the team begins to fracture. The game cleverly introduces a mixture of environmental destruction, enemy waves, and character-specific mechanics that challenge players to think and act fast while adapting to sudden changes in the scenario.
Characters Available in the Mission
The level features several key Avengers, each with unique abilities that must be used to progress. Character switching is essential in true LEGO game fashion, requiring teamwork and puzzle-solving to advance through different sections.
Main Playable Characters
- Bruce Banner / Hulk: Begins in human form and transforms into the Hulk during the mission. Hulk is used for strength-based tasks and combat-heavy sequences.
- Black Widow (Natasha Romanoff): Agile and equipped with electric batons, she can access tight spaces and activate electrical panels.
- Captain America: Uses his shield to solve reflection puzzles and fight enemies with precision attacks.
- Hawkeye: Provides ranged support with his bow, useful for shooting targets and activating distant switches.
Other characters may make brief appearances or assist during cutscenes, reinforcing the interconnected nature of the team.
Key Objectives and Puzzle Elements
The mission is divided into multiple segments that shift depending on the current in-game crisis. From repairing damaged ship sections to battling waves of Chitauri-like enemies, each moment pushes the player to utilize each hero’s abilities effectively.
Notable Objectives
- Escape Hulk Rampage: As Banner loses control, players must use Black Widow to escape the rampaging Hulk in a chase sequence.
- Repair Systems: Use Captain America to reflect beams and activate key systems to stabilize the Helicarrier.
- Combat Sequences: Fight off enemies using teamwork between Cap, Hawkeye, and others to regain control of the ship.
- Hulk Smash: Once in control of the Hulk, destroy obstacles and defeat mini-bosses with brute force.
The combination of action and environmental challenges keeps the pace varied and engaging throughout the level.
Secrets, Collectibles, and Minikits
Like other LEGO titles,LEGO Marvel’s Avengersincludes numerous collectibles in every level. ‘A Startling Metamorphosis’ is no exception, with hidden items, bonus objectives, and character tokens scattered throughout.
What to Look For
- Minikits: There are 10 minikits in this level, hidden in breakable objects or behind puzzles requiring Free Play characters.
- Stan Lee in Peril: Every story level features a Stan Lee cameo where players must rescue him. He’s often hidden or trapped in a hard-to-reach location.
- True Avenger Score: Earn enough studs during the mission to achieve this milestone, unlocking bonus gold bricks.
- Character Unlocks: Completing the level adds new characters to your roster for Free Play and exploration.
Many of these collectibles require returning in Free Play mode with characters like Iron Man or Vision who have abilities not present in the story mode lineup.
Free Play Tips and Tricks
Once the mission is complete, players can return to ‘A Startling Metamorphosis’ in Free Play mode to access previously unreachable areas. This is the best way to collect all minikits, unlock additional gold bricks, and complete 100% of the level.
Recommended Characters for Free Play
- Iron Man (Mark 42 or higher): Can destroy silver LEGO bricks with his repulsors.
- Thor: His lightning powers activate certain switches unavailable in Story Mode.
- Vision: Can phase through walls to reach hidden areas.
- Loki: Required for mind control-based puzzles.
Make sure to review the mission map and note any inaccessible sections during your first run so you know where to return later.
Story Relevance and Cinematic Moments
LEGO Marvel’s Avengers does an excellent job of capturing emotional and action-heavy beats from the MCU with a comedic LEGO twist. ‘A Startling Metamorphosis’ captures the chaos of the Hulk’s transformation and the impact it has on the team, all while balancing humor and heart.
Why This Mission Stands Out
- Faithful recreation of a memorable Avengers scene
- Dynamic gameplay switching between action, puzzles, and chase sequences
- Strong character moments and voice lines lifted from the film
- Layered design with reasons to revisit the level in Free Play
The mission also sets the tone for later levels where characters’ trust in each other is tested, building toward the team’s eventual unity against greater threats.
How to Prepare for the Mission
Before starting ‘A Startling Metamorphosis,’ it’s helpful to understand the game’s basic controls, how character abilities interact with puzzles, and how to manage health and studs during hectic fights. Having a second player join in co-op can also make the level more manageable, especially during timed objectives or combat-heavy segments.
Preparation Checklist
- Know each character’s unique skill set
- Collect as many studs as possible to work toward True Avenger
- Take note of areas that require revisiting in Free Play
- Rescue Stan Lee for extra rewards
Even though this level is relatively early in the game, it introduces mechanics that will appear throughout the campaign, making it an ideal place to sharpen your skills.
‘A Startling Metamorphosis’ inLEGO Marvel’s Avengersis a standout level that blends humor, action, and teamwork in a way only LEGO games can. Whether you’re enjoying the Hulk’s iconic rage moment or solving puzzles with Black Widow and Cap, there’s something in this mission for every fan. Collectibles, dynamic gameplay, and engaging storytelling make it worth replaying multiple times, especially for players aiming for 100% completion. With the right strategy and characters, mastering this level is both fun and rewarding, bringing one of Marvel’s most dramatic moments to life through bricks and creativity.