Marvel Rivals is a third-person hero shooter from NetEase games where you fight in 6v6 matches with your favorite Marvel heroes. Read our review of its early-access build to see what it did well, what it didn't do well, and if it's worth buying.

Marvel Rivals Review Overview

What is Marvel Rivals?

Marvel Rivals is an electrifying, third-person 6v6 hero shooter from NetEase Games, bringing together your favorite heroes, villains, and iconic characters from the ever-expanding Marvel universe. In a wild convergence of timestreams, where all worlds collide into one chaotic reality, heroes and villains clash in a desperate bid to destroy their universe’s anchor—a powerful variant of Doctor Doom.

With maps spanning incredible locales like Yggsgard, Tokyo 2099, and the Intergalactic Empire of Wakanda, every match feels like stepping into a Marvel comic come to life. Whether you’re teaming up with the Avengers, battling alongside the X-Men, or causing havoc with the Guardians of the Galaxy, one thing’s for sure—Marvel Rivals is where the ultimate showdown begins!

Marvel Rivals features:
　⚫︎　33 playable characters, including heroes and villains from Marvel
　⚫︎　Five playable maps on release with different capture points
　⚫︎　Three unique game modes with Convoy, Convergence, and Domination
　⚫︎　Battle pass freebies, cosmetics, and lore points for characters
　　
For more gameplay details, read everything we know about Marvel Rivals's gameplay and story.

Digital Storefronts
Steam		Epic		PlayStation		Xbox
Free-to-play

Marvel Rivals Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Adding Team-up Synergies Was a Game Changer Good Roster Variety and Role Definition Remixed Heroes and Hero Origins	The Usual Early Multiplayer Balancing Woes Still A Bit Buggy

Marvel Rivals Overall Score - 90/100

Marvel Rivals has plenty going for it, and like the Avengers themselves, it’s a team effort that just works. Fun, fresh, and bursting with creativity—not to mention packed to the brim with superheroes—it’s a solidly crafted game with eye-popping visuals and endless fun, especially with friends. While it may not snag Game of the Year, it easily stands out in a genre full of overhyped letdowns, proving itself as the best hero shooter we’ve seen in years.

Marvel Rivals Story - 8/10

It’s hard not to anticipate great stories from a game set in a universe where every Marvel timeline collides—and Marvel Rivals delivers, even as a hero shooter. While much of the legendary appeal comes from the enduring charm of its iconic comic book characters, the game deserves credit for weaving them together into a fresh, cohesive narrative.

Marvel Rivals Gameplay - 9/10

Marvel Rivals is positioning itself as the next-gen hero shooter that Overwatch 2 aspired to be but never quite became. While it might not have the depth of counterplay offered by a shop system, it more than compensates with its staggering wealth of content, top-notch game design, and an impressive roster of heroes. What truly sets Marvel Rivals apart, though, is its innovative synergy system—a brilliant addition that elevates team dynamics and gives it a unique edge in the crowded hero shooter genre.

Marvel Rivals Visuals - 10/10

Hero shooters have always been known for their striking visual style—at least back when Overwatch and Paladins reigned supreme. Since then, the genre has been flooded with uninspired quasi-modern fantasy fare. Enter Marvel Rivals, a breath of fresh air with its dazzling superhero cinematography. From jaw-dropping cutscenes to fluid animations and the timeless allure of its iconic comic book characters, this game is a feast for the eyes and a spectacle that’s impossible to forget. Such is the position of a superhero hero shooter.

Marvel Rivals Audio - 8/10

Marvel Rivals accomplishes something comic books never could and what superhero movies have let fans revel in since 2008—capturing the bombastic essence of superheroes through sound. There’s a unique thrill in hearing Captain America’s knock-out Venom, rather than just reading a “SPANG!” on a page. From thunderous Ultimate Ability voice lines to satisfying battle cries, the game’s sound design elevates every moment, making the superhero fantasy even sweeter to experience.

Marvel Rivals Value for Money - 10/10

I mean, it’s free. But more than that, Marvel Rivals doesn’t just rest on its “free-to-play” laurels—it delivers a treasure trove of content. From a diverse roster of heroes catering to all skill levels to a slew of earnable cosmetics and some of the finest mechanics in the hero shooter genre, this game goes above and beyond. You really can’t beat the unbeatable price of free-fifty, but honestly, with everything it offers, you’d never guess it came at no cost.

Marvel Rivals Review: The Hero Shooter the Genre Needed

Hero shooters might feel like an endangered species these days, but once upon a time, they ruled the gaming landscape. Back when Overwatch first burst onto the scene, the genre wasn’t just a trend—it was a phenomenon that reshaped the industry for years. Alas, all good things must come to an end. With the stumble of Overwatch 2, the hero shooter genre seemed to slip quietly toward its twilight.

But just when the genre appeared ready to bow out, Marvel Rivals soared onto the stage like a caped savior. Developed by NetEase, this game made waves when it was announced in early 2024, turning heads with its logical, yet unprecedented promise: to fuse the exhilarating action of hero shooters with the iconic Marvel Heroes. A match made in Asgard, right?

Now that the game’s finally here, I suited up to see if it could live up to the hype. Not to skip to the back of the issue or anything, but it absolutely delivered.

A Potential Revival of the Hero Shooter Genre

Before diving into the full spectrum of accolades for Marvel Rivals, let’s take a moment to acquaint ourselves with the game itself. True to the DNA of all hero shooters, Marvel Rivals is a competitive, team-based multiplayer experience where players step into the boots—or capes—of iconic characters with unique abilities and roles, striving to achieve objectives specific to their game mode.

It’s familiar territory for fans of the genre, with Overwatch having polished these mechanics in 2016, and classics like Quake and Team Fortress 2 laying the groundwork years before. The very essence is nothing we haven’t already seen, but as the new ideas stack up, you might come to agree why I think this game has the potential to revive the genre entirely.

Let’s talk about matches. Matches pit two teams of six players against one another—a setup reminiscent of Overwatch’s original format before its sequel trimmed the roster to a 5v5 affair. Players engage in fast-paced, electrifying skirmishes, utilizing weapons, abilities, and teamwork to outmaneuver the opposition. Each team’s goal in every game can range from capturing objectives and escorting payloads to racking up eliminations within a ticking timer. So far, so hero shooter. But here’s where Marvel Rivals flexes its spandex-clad muscles.

What truly sets Marvel Rivals apart lies in its intricate mechanics. This isn’t just Overwatch with a Marvel sticker slapped on for fan service. Oh no. The heroes—and villains, anti-heroes, morally ambiguous wildcard types; you get the picture—offer a depth that outshines the average Overwatch character. Sure, there are exceptions on both sides, but on the whole, the roster here is a treasure trove of complexity and nuance.

Let’s take a look at our favorite not-so-jolly green giant for example. The Hulk is a vanguard hero that plays between three states: Banner, Hulk, and Monster Hulk. Mastery of playing as the Hulk requires a player to switch between these states as necessary, as their ultimate, World Breaker, is only accessible with the last form, and any consistent ranged options only exist as Banner. Each form has its own stats, upsides, and downsides, and switching consistently and on point is usually key to surviving as him.

Moving along to other mechanics, there’s the Team-Up Synergies system, a game-changer that Overwatch simply doesn’t have—and likely never will. This feature takes team composition beyond the usual tactical considerations, introducing tangible gameplay bonuses based on which characters join forces. It’s a brilliant touch that adds strategy, encourages experimentation, and keeps matches fresh. Pair this with destructible environments, and suddenly, players have an entire playground of possibilities to strategize around.

And let’s talk about the game’s production values because Marvel Rivals spares no expense. The animations? Silky smooth and explosively dynamic, not just for the heroes but across the entire experience. Stage transitions are seamless, loading screens pop with energy, and even the main menu feels alive. It’s the kind of polish that rivals the biggest names in the genre—looking at you, ill-advised sequels.

Finally, let’s address one of Marvel Rivals’ most enticing strengths: its staggering roster. From the get-go, players have access to a vast lineup of characters, a rarity in this space. It’s not just quantity but quality—a roster brimming with diversity, personality, and the sheer joy of discovering new favorites.

Good Roster Variety and Role Definition

If there’s one thing Marvel knows how to do, it’s cranking out heroes (and villains) by the truckload, and Marvel Rivals makes exceptional use of this super-sized catalog. From the Avengers and X-Men to the Guardians of the Galaxy, with plenty of deep cuts and lesser-known fan favorites thrown in for good measure, the roster is a Marvel fan’s dream. Not only do you get iconic faces like Spider-Man and Iron Man, but you’ll also find some surprises, including a couple of entirely new characters. In total, that’s 33 playable heroes, villains, and anti-heroes right out of the gate.

Now, while Overwatch 2 currently boasts an impressive 42 heroes, let’s keep things in perspective: the original Overwatch launched with just 21. Considering Marvel Rivals’ potential and Marvel’s infinite pool of characters, it’s only a matter of time before this game levels—or even surpasses—that playing field. With its already massive starting roster and the near-limitless possibilities for additions, the hero count race is a marathon, not a sprint—and Marvel Rivals has some serious stamina.

The variety and role definition within the roster are top-notch, offering a hero for every playstyle and archetype a hero shooter could possibly need. Whether you’re picking up a straightforward, newbie-friendly character like Mantis or Scarlet Witch or diving into the complexity of heroes like Psylocke or Hawkeye, there’s something for everyone. This diversity is one of the perks of launching with such a large lineup—it’s a buffet of options where every plate is worth tasting.

Roles in Marvel Rivals are also crystal-clear, well-implemented, and thoughtfully balanced, ensuring every match feels dynamic and engaging. Vanguards bring tanky durability and crowd control, Duelists specialize in high-damage plays capable of wiping out enemy teams, and Strategists focus on utility and mobility, often providing crucial support in chaotic fights. The game even offers hybrid characters that blend these roles for added depth.

It might seem like role clarity should be a given in the genre, but many games still fumble this essential detail. Take the PvZ Garden Warfare series, which often blurred lines to the point of confusion, or Paladins, which rigidly stuck to roles without any flexibility. Marvel Rivals strikes an excellent balance, carving out a clear identity for each character while still leaving room for creative playstyles.

Adding Team-up Synergies Was a Game Changer

One of the standout features in Marvel Rivals—and one I can’t stop gushing about—is the innovative Team-Up Synergy system. This mechanic allows certain heroes to interact with their teammates in ways that are completely unique, unlocking abilities and bonuses that would otherwise remain inaccessible if these characters weren’t fighting side by side. For the hero shooter genre, this is a true game-changer. Historically, team composition has always been a strategic layer, limited to the natural synergy between kits. But here? Marvel Rivals takes it a step further, offering additional layers of teamwork that feel both fresh and exhilarating.

And when I say these synergies are game-changers, I’m not exaggerating. They’re not just genre-defining—they’re match-defining. A well-timed synergy can swing the momentum of a battle just as dramatically as a perfectly executed ultimate ability. Case in point: my personal favorite, Rocket Raccoon and The Punisher’s Ammo Overload. Activate this synergy, and the duo gains unlimited ammo for a short but glorious window. With Rocket’s penchant for destruction and The Punisher’s arsenal of heavy firepower, it’s like unleashing pure chaos on the battlefield. A match made in Hell’s Kitchen, indeed.

But the innovation doesn’t stop at mechanics. Marvel Rivals also breathes new life into its story and setting, ensuring that the game feels just as dynamic narratively as it does during gameplay.

Remixed Heroes and Hero Origins

NetEase may have had access to Marvel’s legendary catalog, but they didn’t just sit back and play it safe with familiar faces. Marvel Rivals shakes things up with a host of fresh redesigns and clever remixes, reimagining iconic heroes and villains in ways that make even the most well-known characters feel new and exciting. It’s a testament to the creativity behind the game that, despite drawing from one of the world’s most famous superhero pantheons, there’s still plenty of room for surprises.

Take Thor, for instance. While the MCU’s golden-haired, wisecracking, galaxy-trotting version might be the go-to for many, Marvel Rivals opts for a more seasoned, battle-hardened Thor. This older, gruff incarnation rules the skies with a gravitas that sets him apart from his cinematic counterpart. Then there’s Luna Snow—a lesser-known but no less spectacular hero from the comics—shining brightly as a Strategist in the game, bringing her unique flair and frosty abilities to the battlefield.

And it doesn’t stop there. If you loved Spider-Verse’s Peni Parker, you’ll be thrilled (or perhaps intrigued) to see Marvel Rivals’ take on SP//dr, piloted by a comic-accurate version of the mech-savvy spider-heroine. Prefer quirky powerhouses? Squirrel Girl is here to conquer Thanos—and her enemies—with the same unbeatable charm she’s known for. And for the fast-paced, Genji-style players out there, a ninja-inspired Psylocke delivers sleek, deadly gameplay that’s as stylish as it is effective.

Unfortunately, as praise-worthy as the game is for its story, presentation, and mechanics, it still falls to the genre’s many pitfalls, the worst of which is balancing.

The Usual Early Multiplayer Balancing Woes

Ah, the age-old curse of team-based multiplayer games: early balancing woes. It’s a tale as old as the genre itself, and while many games eventually find their footing, those initial stumbles can be a bit frustrating. Marvel Rivals is no exception to this trend. While its balancing issues aren’t as glaring as some others (looking at you, day-one Bastion in Overwatch), there are a few quirks worth noting for those deciding whether to jump in now or wait for some fine-tuning.

Take Iron Man, for example. His ability to stay airborne gives him a distinct advantage in combat, largely because players—even in third-person games—seem to forget the fundamental FPS principle of “nobody looks up.” This mobility lets him rain down havoc from above with frustrating impunity. Meanwhile, the Vanguard role feels like it drew the short end of the stick, coming off weaker than its counterparts. The problem is compounded by the lack of a dedicated role queue, meaning these tanky, crowd-controlling heroes are often in short supply, despite being crucial for team balance.

That said, these issues are hardly deal-breakers. Balance tweaks are par for the course in the early life of any competitive multiplayer game, and Marvel Rivals is no doubt already on the path to addressing these growing pains. Still, if you’re debating whether to dive in now or wait for the dust to settle, these are points worth keeping in mind.

Still A Bit Buggy

Another aspect to keep in mind with Marvel Rivals is its... let’s call it creative exuberance in the physics department. It’s very buggy still–and no, I don’t mean Spider-Man, though the web-slinger is involved. With its insane verticality, unmatched hero mobility, and partially destructible environments, the game occasionally struggles to keep its mechanics grounded—sometimes quite literally.

The game’s ambitious design can result in some hilariously chaotic, if occasionally frustrating, moments. Heroes can find themselves unexpectedly flung across the map or experiencing interactions that defy even comic book logic. This is especially evident with highly mobile characters like Spider-Man, Venom, and Doctor Strange, whose traversal abilities sometimes have minds of their own. Doctor Strange’s portal can sometimes lead to unintended locations, and Punisher’s rappel line has been known to glitch, occasionally making him even less mobile than he already is—a significant handicap for a hero meant to bring the fight to his foes.

As with the balancing issues, this is the kind of thing that’s bound to be smoothed out over time. Still, if you’re diving into the game now, it’s worth keeping your sense of humor handy. After all, there’s something oddly fitting about a superhero game occasionally veering into the absurd. Just don’t be surprised if the only thing carrying you off into the sunset is a physics bug instead of a heroic victory.

Is Marvel Rivals Worth It?

Lesser Games Have Asked for More. Play This Now!

Marvel Rivals is free-to-play, gorgeously crafted, and, let’s be honest, there aren’t many hero shooters out there right now that come close to being this worth your time. Yes, it carries the ever-dreaded battle pass monetization scheme—the scourge of modern gaming that has toppled many a lesser title. But here’s the silver lining: the battle pass is purely cosmetic, and the wealth of content available for free easily eclipses that unwelcome stain of capitalism.

Plenty of games have dared to ask for more while offering far less than Marvel Rivals. With its polished gameplay, inventive mechanics, and sheer Marvel-powered fun, this is a game you and your super-powered squad should already be diving into. After all, what have you got to lose but a little time—and what have you got to gain but new rivals?

Digital Storefronts
Steam		Epic		PlayStation		Xbox
Free-to-play

Marvel Rivals FAQ

Which Heroes are Currently in Marvel Rivals?

Marvel Rivals currently has the following characters in their roster, with more to come as the game is continually updated:

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Marvel Rivals Product Information

Title	MARVEL RIVALS
Release Date	December 6, 2024
Developer	NetEase Games
Publisher	NetEase Games
Supported Platforms	PC (Steam, Epic Games), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre	Action, Shooter, Multiplayer
Number of Players	12 (6v6 Multiplayer)
Rating	ESRB Teen
Official Website	Marvel Rivals Official Website

Aaron Bruce Albert..

A massive fan of roguelikes, turn-based RPGs, and open world adventure games. His gold standard games include The Binding of Isaac, XCOM: Enemy Unknown, and Dragon Quest Monsters Joker.