A new Marvel Games PC title, “Marvel Rivals,” is gearing up for a May launch, offering gamers a free-to-play experience. Upon its debut, players will have the chance to embody 18 iconic Marvel characters, spanning heroes and villains, with further additions planned for future updates.
The initial roster available during the closed alpha phase in May (specific launch date to be determined) will feature 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.
According to NetEase Games, the developer behind “Marvel Rivals,” this superhero team-based shooter will allow players to “assemble an ever-evolving all-star squad of superheroes and supervillains while battling with unique superpowers across a dynamic lineup of destructible maps from across the Marvel Multiverse.”
The game’s narrative, crafted by the creative minds at NetEase, unfolds a clash between the tyrannical Doctor Doom and his future counterpart from the year 2099. This conflict triggers the convergence of numerous universes in the Timestream Entanglement, leading to the emergence of new worlds and unforeseen crises. Now, heroes and villains from across the multiverse must unite and confront each other, striving to thwart both Dooms before either can seize control of these realities.
Marvel and NetEase pledge “robust” post-launch updates, with promises of seasonal releases introducing fresh characters, along with additional maps and content. This latest Marvel title marks a progression of the superhero versus villain concept within the Disney realm, tracing back to the inception of the mobile game “Marvel: Contest of Champions” nearly a decade ago.
Jay Ong, head of Marvel Games, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “‘Marvel Rivals’ stands as one of our most ambitious game development endeavors. From its inception to our ongoing collaboration, our Marvel team has poured our hearts and souls into this project, and we’re thrilled to partner with the talented team at NetEase Games to deliver the ultimate superhero team-based PVP shooter.”
Thaddeus Sasser, director at NetEase Games, emphasized the familial aspect often found within superhero teams, highlighting the collaborative gameplay in “Marvel Rivals.” He explained, “Superhero teams are like families, often banding together to combat evil. In ‘Marvel Rivals,’ players can utilize team-up abilities with friends and allies to bolster attacks or defenses, collectively influencing the outcome of battles.
For example, players can control Rocket Raccoon and ride into battle on Groot’s shoulders, or use Doctor Strange’s portal abilities to enable the Punisher to unleash firepower from unexpected angles. With numerous combinations to explore, players are encouraged to delve into the game and discover them all, ensuring their team emerges victorious.”