The subgenre of “hero shooter” is gaining popularity in competitive multiplayer games, featuring characters with unique preset abilities instead of customizable loadouts. While games like Overwatch have shown the potential of superheroes in this concept, Marvel and DC have not fully explored this genre yet.
Marvel Rivals aims to change that narrative, beginning with its first open alpha set for May.
NetEase and Marvel Entertainment recently announced Marvel Rivals on March 27. This 6v6 multiplayer game features characters from the Marvel multiverse. Game director Thaddeus Sasser shared insights on character selection, balancing powers while maintaining game integrity, and the challenges faced by new multiplayer games in the current gaming landscape.
Building the Roster for Marvel Rivals
In Marvel Rivals, Doctor Doom and his 2099 variant spark a conflict leading to the Timestream Entanglement, setting the stage for 6v6 matches. The game narrative focuses on protecting timestreams and battling the Dooms. While not as story-driven as Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra, it provides a solid foundation for a multiplayer Marvel experience.
Sasser mentions that character interactions and ongoing live service updates will help develop the game’s narrative. The character selection process for Marvel Rivals benefited from the partnership between NetEase and Marvel, with 18 characters confirmed.
- Black Panther
- Doctor Strange
- Groot
- Hulk
- Iron Man
- Loki
- Luna Snow
- Magik
- Magneto
- Mantis
- Namor
- Peni Parker
- Rocket Racoon
- Scarlet Witch
- Spider-Man
- Storm
- Star-Lord
- The Punisher
While popular characters like Iron Man and Black Panther make the cut, inclusion of lesser-known characters like Magik and Peni Parker aims to attract a diverse player base across the Marvel Universe.
Not all characters are confirmed yet, with versions of Doctor Doom and Galactus teased but not playable. Sasser hints at possibilities to incorporate even larger characters creatively into Marvel Rivals.
Embracing the Hero Experience
Marvel Rivals adopts the core gameplay elements of hero shooters like Overwatch, with each character fulfilling specific roles and offering unique abilities to enhance team performance. The game also emphasizes team-up mechanics, allowing for strategic collaborations between characters.
Sasser highlights the game’s focus on environmental destruction and verticality to differentiate it from other hero shooters. The game aims to offer a fresh gameplay experience while staying true to the iconic abilities of Marvel characters.
Sasser acknowledges the challenge of balancing character abilities to ensure fair yet entertaining gameplay for players, emphasizing the importance of a fun and engaging experience above all.
Keys to Multiplayer Game Success
Reflecting on his experience and the evolving multiplayer landscape, Sasser emphasizes the importance of creating enjoyable games with replay value and competitive elements to attract players. While acknowledging the competitive market, he underscores the significance of delivering a fun gaming experience above all.
Marvel Rivals is set to launch its first open alpha test on PC in May, offering a fresh take on the hero shooter genre with a roster of iconic Marvel characters.
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