

Marvel Rivals released in December 2024, making 2025 the first full calendar year of Marvel Rivals as a live-service multiplayer shooter. In the first year, NetEase, the developer of Marvel Rivals, has shown itself more than ready to handle a live-service game, even if it doesn't always get it right the first time. Not only did it sustain the promised one hero per month cadence, but NetEase has been fairly reactive to fan complaints.
Skins have been tweaked, special event modes like Marvel Zombies were extended at fan request, and just recently Deadpool's VFX visual clutter and his banter were toned down shortly after his release due to issues. When it comes to the new characters, 12 total across all three classes, the variety of characters has been strong, but there are a few gaps in the roster that need to be addressed.
Marvel Rivals added four new Vanguards, the tank class that's focused on controlling the pace of battle: The Thing, Emma Frost, Angela, and Rogue. While you can argue the minor differences between Dive and Brawl--Dive is more about pushing deep into your opponent's territory, while Brawl characters try to be a nuisance in the middle of the fight--all of these tanks share similar playstyles.
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