Marvel Rivals has announced plans to expand beyond its signature 6v6 PvP format, introducing new game modes and Marvel-themed content. Developed by NetEase Games, Marvel Rivals is a free-to-play hero shooter that lets players build their ultimate Marvel squad and battle it out across iconic locations from the beloved franchise. Since its debut in late 2024, the title has drawn in millions of players and stands as one of the biggest launches in Marvel gaming history.
Much of Marvel Rivals' success can be credited to NetEase's dedication to the title with a steady flow of post-launch updates. Throughout 2025, the game welcomed Deadpool, Daredevil, Gambit, and Rogue to its roster of characters, along with new maps and a wide range of additional content. NetEase made it clear that 2025 was only the beginning for Marvel Rivals, and it has even bigger plans in store. Now, it seems like we are finally getting a clearer picture of what lies ahead for the hero shooter and how it plans to grow even further.
Marvel Rivals Dev Reveals Whether There Are Plans for a PvE Mode
Netease Games confirms its intentions regarding the prospect of a Player-versus-Environment mode for team shooter Marvel Rivals.
Marvel Rivals Plans to Expand Beyond 6v6 in 2026
In an interview with FRVR, Marvel Rivals' creative director Guangyun Chen offered a glimpse into the hero shooter's future. He revealed that NetEase is looking to push the game in bold new directions in 2026, with a focus on "moving beyond standard 6v6 PvP" gameplay. The studio plans to introduce new PvE content alongside Paths to Doomsday in Marvel Rivals, which will feature five MCU-inspired updates drawn from the Infinity Saga, bringing new game modes and themed content to the table.
Chen also stated that NetEase's broader ambition is to evolve Marvel Rivals from a shooter to a full-fledged "Marvel 'moving anime' experience" over the next few years. With over 9,000 characters available in the Marvel universe, Chen notes that the development team isn't concerned about running out of options anytime soon, and it already has a content roadmap for the game planned through 2027.
Over social media channels like Reddit and Twitter, players are excited about the addition of more PvE content to the hero shooter. Last year, Marvel Rivals introduced the Marvel Zombies PvE mode, allowing players to battle endless waves of zombie hordes and take on bosses like The Queen of the Dead and Zombie Manor. The mode proved to be a massive success for the game and skyrocketed its player base. Considering the rich lore of the Marvel universe, NetEase has plenty of material to draw from, including the likes of major storylines such as Secret Invasion, Civil War, and Judgment Day, alongside a vast roster of characters and events that can inspire future PvE content.
GameRant Quiz
While NetEase has ambitious plans for the game moving forward, the developer is also focused on addressing its current issues. In response to some players' throwing matches, Marvel Rivals has rolled out matchmaking updates, including a server-wide match-throwing detection system and the Victim Compensation Protocol to support affected players. Fans can't wait to see how the hero shooter continues to change and what new features it brings in the coming months.
Marvel Rivals
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 78/100 Critics Rec: 84%
- Released
- December 6, 2024
- ESRB
- T For Teen // Violence
- Developer(s)
- NetEase Games
- Publisher(s)
- NetEase Games
Marvel Rivals is a Super Hero Team-Based PVP Shooter!
Assemble an all-star Marvel squad, devise countless strategies by combining powers to form unique Team-Up skills and fight in destructible, ever-changing battlefields across the continually evolving Marvel universe!
A Deep and Varied Marvel Roster
Choose from a vast array of fan-favorite and cult-classic Marvel Super Heroes and Super Villains from across the Avengers, Guardians of the Galaxy, X-Men, and many more from across the Marvel Multiverse.
Fast and Fun 6v6 Action with Ever-Changing Game Dynamics
With intricate environments, fast-paced gameplay, and ever-changing battlefields, there's never a dull moment in Marvel Rivals! Battle as Super Heroes and Super Villains with incredible abilities and combine your powers to bring unexpected fun to the battlefield in a matter of seconds.
Dynamic Hero Synergy
Coordinate unique combinations between characters to ignite surprising Team-Up Skills! Unleash the synergy of combined superpowers and invent new tactics that can turn the tide of combat. Ride on Groot's back as Rocket Raccoon to take on your enemies as a dangerous duo, unleash Gamma energy as Hulk to charge Iron Man's armor for massive damage, and so much more!
Creative Environment Destruction
Tear your way through iconic Marvel worlds across destructible environments! From Asgard to the Tokyo of 2099, use superpowers to alter these environments, reshape the terrain, and craft a strategic advantage on the battlefield! Take cover to dodge attacks or use makeshift weapons to strike down enemies. Players will find countless ways to utilize the environment to claim victory!
Continually Evolving Universe and Robust Post-Launch Updates
The Marvel Multiverse brings infinite possibilities! Each seasonal drop will introduce new Super Heroes to the battlefield along with challenging and diverse maps! Unlock new content to implement across various gameplay strategies while experiencing thrilling action and endless possibilities in these adventurous team battles!
- Genre(s)
- Third-Person Shooter, Action, Multiplayer
Source: FRVR