Developer Update 2: New maps, anti-cheat, hero data, and more

Marvel Rivals is gearing up for its much-anticipated launch, and Zhiyong, the lead combat designer of Marvel Rivals, has shared updates about the game's progress, and what players can expect.

The team has been hard at work refining gameplay, balancing heroes, and optimizing performance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone. After gathering extensive feedback from the closed beta test, they've made significant adjustments to hero balance, such as nerfing Magneto and strengthening other characters like Jeff and Loki, who had been underperfoming in the closed beta. Additionally, new heroes have undergone rigorous testing to guarantee a fair and thrilling experience at launch.

For those eager to dive deeper into the game's mechanics, Marvel Rivals will provide detailed stats and dossiers for all playable heroes on its official website at launch, which will be reflected as in-depth ability and damage numbers for all Marvel Rivals characters here on rivals.fan. The team is also committed to sharing important combat data, like win rates and pick rates, though this will take time to compile post-launch — we'll also be featuring this information here on rivals.fan as data becomes available.

Marvel Rivals: Intergalactic Empire of Wakanda

The developers have focused on enhancing every aspect of the game. Hero animations have been polished for smoother transitions, particularly for larger-than-life characters like Hulk and Magik. Visual effects have been revamped to make attacks more impactful and easier to track during battles. Sound design hasn't been overlooked either; audio cues have been refined to highlight critical moments, such as impending danger. The user interface (UI) has also seen improvements, including clearer reload prompts for when abilities are ready to be used, and even hero-specific feedback, like letting Mantis players know who are good targets for her damage buff.

Maps have undergone extensive refinement as well. The launch will kick off with Season Zero featuring a variety of new maps tailored for different game modes. Highlights include the Intergalactic Empire of Wakanda maps of Birnin T'Challa and the Hall of Djalia, which offer unique gameplay dynamics as destroying certain map elements angers the respective gods.

Marvel Rivals: Hydra Charteris Base

Shortly after launch, players can explore Hydra Charteris Base in Antarctica, where the environment of Hell's Heaven shifts dynamically as Hydra enacts its invasion protocols. Other maps include the symbiotic surface of Klyntar, featuring reactive terrain that evolves and adapts during combat, and Tokyo 2099: Warped Ninomaru. A brand-new practice range has also been designed to help players hone their skills with any hero.

Marvel Rivals: Klyntar

Fair play remains a top priority for Marvel Rivals. During the closed beta test, the team implemented advanced anti-cheat measures that kept incidents below 1%, with cheaters being swiftly banned. This vigilance extends to consoles as well, with ongoing efforts to detect exploitative behavior like using external devices. The developers are committed to maintaining an even playing field post-launch.

Looking ahead, Marvel Rivals is already preparing content for future seasons. Season One is nearly complete and undergoing final touches, while even more exciting heroes and maps are in development for subsequent updates. The team expressed gratitude for the community's support and enthusiasm as they approach the game's official release on December 6th.