Marvel Rivals Unveils Season 1 Balancing Updates

Marvel Rivals Receives Pre-Season 1 Balance Patch with Significant Character Adjustments

NetEase has deployed a comprehensive balance patch for Marvel Rivals, impacting numerous characters ahead of Season 1's January 10th launch. The update features both buffs and nerfs, addressing community feedback and aiming to create a more balanced competitive environment. Key changes affect Duelists, Vanguards, Strategists, and team-up abilities.

Marvel Rivals, a popular hero shooter released late 2024, has quickly gained traction. Its team-based gameplay, featuring payloads, capture points, and unique character abilities, is enhanced by a diverse roster of Marvel heroes. Season 1, focusing on the Fantastic Four, is on the horizon, but this pre-season patch lays the groundwork for a more refined experience.

Notable Changes:

The patch introduces several adjustments across all hero classes. Duelists like Black Panther, Hawkeye, Hela, and Scarlet Witch received minor nerfs, while others, including Black Widow, Magik, Moon Knight, Wolverine, and Winter Soldier, received buffs – ranging from increased health to shorter cooldown times. A significant buff to Storm, previously considered underpowered, highlights NetEase's commitment to balancing the roster. Her Bolt Rush now deals 80 damage (up from 70), and Wind Blade's projectile speed has been increased from 100m/s to 150m/s.

Vanguards Captain America and Thor received health boosts, and Venom's Feast of the Abyss now deals increased damage. Strategists also saw adjustments, with Cloak & Dagger's Dagger Storm cooldown reduced, Jeff the Land Shark's healing increased, and Rocket Raccoon's repair mode enhanced.

Team-up abilities, activated when specific heroes are paired, also received tweaks. Some team-up bonuses were reduced (Hawkeye/Black Widow, Hela/Thor/Loki), while others saw cooldown reductions (Rocket Raccoon/Punisher/Winter Soldier, Thor/Storm/Captain America).

Detailed Patch Notes:

The complete patch notes detail individual adjustments for each character, including specific numerical changes to damage, health, cooldowns, and ability effects. These are too extensive to fully reproduce here, but key changes are summarized above. Players are encouraged to review the full patch notes for a comprehensive understanding of all modifications. The full patch notes are available [link to patch notes if available].

This pre-season patch demonstrates NetEase's dedication to maintaining a fair and engaging competitive landscape in Marvel Rivals. The changes, particularly the Storm buff, address player concerns and suggest a proactive approach to balancing the game before the launch of Season 1.