Though it was originally set for release some time tomorrow, Capcom has come out to say that the highly anticipated set of DLC characters for Marvel vs. Capcom 3 has been delayed. As part of their message, Capcom sent out their condolences to any of those affected by the earthquake and subsequent tsunami that occurred early Friday morning, indicating that the delay isn’t as a result of needing more development time.

While it is surely disappointing for Marvel vs. Capcom 3 fans to hear that Jill Valentine and Shuma Gorath — the two characters being offered with the upcoming DLC — might be still a ways off from filling out the Marvel vs. Capcom 3 roster, it's small potatoes amidst a larger tragedy.

As discovered by a clever hacker, Jill Valentine is actually coded on the retail discs of MvC, adding credence to the fact that this delay is not in order to give Capcom more time. It is quite simply a chance for Japan to recover from an event that has rattled the entire country.

Other publishers are following Capcom’s suit by announcing that titles originally slated to come out very soon, and some in development, have been delayed in light of recent events. Among those titles are Yakuza 4, Motorstorm Apocalypse, and Dragon Age: Origns — Awakening. The games will still be there -- while one that took place prominently during an earthquake (Disaster Report 4) has been cancelled -- after Japan begins to rebuild, so it’s best if the important issues get a little focus for now.

Obviously, Marvel vs. Capcom 3 might still see the release of Jill Valentine and Shuma Gorath in the US tomorrow, but we anticipate this delay is for all versions of the game. Stay tuned to Game Rant for the new date of Marvel vs. Capcom 3’s DLC and for information on any upcoming DLC.

Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds is out now for the PS3 and Xbox 360.

Source: Andria Sang, Famitsu [via Games Radar]