MCU Rivals Players Face Bans Over Exploits

NetEase Games Issues Warning: Marvel Rivals Modders Face Bans

NetEase Games, developer and publisher of the popular team shooter Marvel Rivals, has issued a stern warning to players using modifications (mods). The company explicitly stated that any modding activity, regardless of type (cosmetic or gameplay-enhancing), violates the game's terms of service and risks permanent account bans.

This announcement follows the launch of Season 1, which introduced the Fantastic Four's Invisible Woman and Mister Fantastic, alongside hero adjustments. While Season 1 initially included anti-modding measures, resourceful players quickly discovered workarounds. Reports from IGN detail a Nexus Mods add-on that bypasses NetEase's asset hash checks, allowing for modifications such as transforming Mister Fantastic into One Piece's Luffy. Despite this, the mod's creator, Prafit, clearly stated users assume all associated risks, including potential bans.

Although NetEase hasn't publicly confirmed any bans for modding yet, the company's stance remains firm. While some mods, including one featuring Donald Trump, have been removed from platforms like Nexus Mods, Prafit's workaround persists, boasting over 500 downloads.

The situation highlights a conflict between player creativity and the game's rules. NetEase has addressed past instances of false bans, but the consequences of violating the terms of service are now explicitly clear. The future actions of NetEase Games regarding modding remain to be seen. Marvel Rivals, nominated for Online Game of the Year at the upcoming DICE Awards 2025, continues to enjoy popularity despite this ongoing issue.