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WhenMarvel Rivalsburst onto the scene last December, many assumed it would be yet another attempt to cash in on the MCU’s popularity. After all, with the Marvel Cinematic Universe dominating pop culture for over a decade, it seemed like a safe bet that NetEase Games would follow that tried-and-true template.
But here’s the thing: while the MCU’s success certainly helped pave the way forMarvel Rivals, the game’s DNA is pure comic book goodness. From character designs to abilities, and even those spicy cosmetics that have players reaching for their wallets, this hero shooter draws its inspiration from decades of comic book history.
And if you needed proof that NetEase isn’t just following the MCU playbook, look no further than the fact that one of their playable characters is literally a shark who once ate the Infinity Stones. Yes, really.
Going beyond the MCU template
When you first boot upMarvel Rivals, you might notice something different about your favorite heroes. The Hulk isn’t just a rage monster who smashes things—he’s manipulating gamma radiation in ways that would make Bruce Banner’s MCU counterpart green with envy. Loki isn’t restricted to daggers and basic illusions but wields the full might of his comic book powers.
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This isn’t by accident. The development team at NetEase Games made their priorities clear from the start, as they explained toGamingBoltin a pre-release interview:
Accessing the entire Marvel multiverse for character selection has been an extensive process… While our designs draw from various sources, the primary inspiration originates from the comics, with most characters created based on their comic designs.
This commitment to comic book authenticity shows up everywhere, from the Hulk’s ability to manipulate gamma radiation (something we’ve never seen in theMCU) to Loki’s more comics-accurate mastery over illusions and shapeshifting. Of course, these aren’t just cosmetic differences—they fundamentally change how these characters play:
For instance, with the Hulk, we’ve designed and replicated his extraordinary leaping ability, enabling him to knock flying opponents out of the sky, making him a nemesis to airborne heroes, and adding a unique dimension to his combat style.
But perhaps the most delightful aspect is howMarvel Rivalsintroduces mainstream audiences to characters they might never have known existed.
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Take Jeff the Land Shark, for example. This adorable chompy boymight be unfamiliar to MCU fans (for now), but comic readers know him as the lovable shark who once swallowed the Infinity Gauntlet and made off with Captain America’s shield. Now he’s out there inMarvel Rivals, healing teammates and swallowing enemies whole.
Cosmetics that tell their own stories
NetEase‘s commitment to comic book authenticity extends to its cosmetic offerings, which often serve as gateways to some of Marvel’s most intriguing storylines. Want to play as an evil Reed Richards? The Maker skin has you covered. Curious about what happened when Tony Stark’s moral compass went haywire? Try on the Superior Iron Man outfit.
Balancing the competitive aspect with the fun factor for players is a complex task, particularly when dealing with the array of abilities possessed by Marvel characters, which range from the realistic to the fantastical.
These aren’t just cool alternate looks—they’re windows into fascinating comic book storylines that many players might never have discovered otherwise. And yes, some of them are surprisingly spicy (looking at you, Malice Sue Storm), but they’re all rooted in actual comic book history.
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The result is a game that doesn’t just pay lip service to its comic book roots but celebrates them in all their weird, wonderful glory. Whether you’re a longtime comic fan or someone whose Marvel knowledge begins and ends with the movies,Marvel Rivalshas something to teach you about the rich history of these characters.
What’s your favorite comic-inspired element inMarvel Rivals? Have you discovered any new favorite characters through the game? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Soumyajit Mukherjee
Gaming Writer
Articles Published :965
Soumyajit Mukherjee is a Gaming Writer at FandomWire, known for his deep dives into tactical shooters and co-op games. Since joining in June 2024, he’s focused on breakout multiplayer titles like Helldivers 2 and Marvel Rivals, bringing sharp analysis and veteran instincts to every story. His gaming journey began at a local café with the OG Modern Warfare 2, and from that very first frag, he’s been chasing the rush ever since.A former competitive Rainbow Six Siege team captain, Soumyajit has played and written about everything from CS:GO, Valorant, Overwatch, and Apex Legends to Rocket League, Call of Duty, and Battlefield. He’s proudly PC-first and has been since said LAN days… but with GTA 6 looming on the horizon, a long-overdue PS5 might finally sneak onto his setup.
