Marvel Rivals
Marvel Rivals, a new free-to-play PC game by Marvel Games, is set to launch it's closed alpha in May. When it's released, players will have the chance to embody 18 beloved Marvel characters, with more to be added in future updates.
The initial lineup for the closed alpha version launching in May (specific date to be announced) includes Black Panther, Doctor Strange, Groot, Hulk, Iron Man, Loki, Luna Snow, Magik, Magneto, Mantis, Namor, Peni Parker, Rocket Raccoon, Scarlet Witch, Spider-Man, Storm, Star-Lord, and The Punisher.
Developed by NetEase Games in China, Marvel Rivals is a team-based shooter where players can build a diverse squad of superheroes and supervillains. They'll engage in battles with unique superpowers across various destructible maps from the Marvel Multiverse.
Story
The merciless clash between tyrannical dictator Doctor Doom and his future counterpart from the year 2099 has forced countless universes to collide in the Timestream Entanglement, creating new worlds and crises unknown.
Now, Super Heroes and Villains from across the multiverse must fight together and against one another as disparate groups each seek to best both Dooms before one achieves domination of these realities. Familiar faces become newfound foes while former enemies become the greatest of allies in Marvel Rivals!
About
Marvel and NetEase have promised substantial updates post-launch for "Marvel Rivals," including seasonal drops introducing new characters, maps, and content.
This new Marvel title represents the latest iteration of a superhero versus villain concept under the Disney brand, following the success of the mobile game "Marvel: Contest of Champions" almost a decade ago.
Jay Ong, head of Marvel Games, expressed enthusiasm for "Marvel Rivals," calling it one of their most ambitious projects. He highlighted the collaborative effort between Marvel and NetEase Games, emphasizing their dedication to delivering the ultimate superhero team-based PVP shooter experience.
Thaddeus Sasser, director at NetEase Games, compared superhero teams to families, emphasizing their teamwork in combating evil. He explained how "Marvel Rivals" allows players to utilize team-up abilities with friends and teammates to enhance attacks or defenses, giving examples like Rocket Raccoon riding on Groot's shoulders into battle or using Doctor Strange's portal power to enable the Punisher's turret to rain fire on enemies. Sasser encouraged players to explore the game to discover various combinations and ensure their team emerges victorious.
Playable Characters
The trailer revealed 19 heroes and villains expected to launch with the game, coinciding with a leaked list circulating yesterday. While the art style may resemble Valorant, the overall vibe appears akin to Overwatch. Here's the roster:
- Doctor Doom (Main Villain)
- Black Panther
- Doctor Strange
- Groot
- Hela
- Hulk
- Iron Man
- Loki
- Luna Snow
- Magik
- Magneto
- Mantis
- Namor
- Peni Parker
- Punisher
- Rocket Raccoon
- Scarlet Witch
- Spiderman
- Star Lord
- Storm
- Galactus (?)
The roster features a mix of Avengers, X-Men, and Guardians of the Galaxy characters, along with some unexpected additions such as Luna Snow, a recent creation from Marvel Future Fight, and Peni Parker from the Spider-Verse. Additionally, there are "lesser-known" heroes like Mantis, while notable heavy hitters like Captain America and Wolverine are notably absent.
Featured Media
Images
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Videos
- Marvel Rivals - 'Rivals’ First Stand' - Official Announcement Trailer