Don’t leave the multiverse shenanigans to the MCU shows and movies. Marvel has officially unveiled “Marvel Rivals,” a new team-based player versus player shooter packed with your favorite Marvel characters. Developed by NetEase Games in collaboration with Marvel Games, the upcoming free-to-play PC title sees teams of six heroes and villains from the Marvel universe face off in battles across multiple worlds, from Asgard to 2099 Tokyo.
Judging by the game’s first trailer, which you can see below, “Marvel Rivals” is very reminiscent of another team-based 6v6 PvP shooter you’re probably already familiar with: Blizzard’s “Overwatch.” But there are some notable differences that should change things in interesting ways.
For starters, “Marvel Rivals” plays in third person instead of first person like “Overwatch.” Also setting it apart are the partially destructible environments, which should change the flow of battle so that each map plays out differently from match to match. And there are unique powers and team abilities for characters on the same team with close ties to each other in the comics.
Right now you can wishlist “Marvel Rivals” on both Steam and the Epic Games Store. There is no word yet on if or when the game will come to consoles. Here is the official description of the game via Wonderful :
“NetEase Games and Marvel Games are excited to announce their latest collaboration: Marvel Rivals, a cooperative PvP shooter based on superhero teams! Players can form an all-star squad of ever-evolving superheroes and supervillains, while battling with unique superpowers across a dynamic line-up of destructible maps from across the Marvel Multiverse. “Marvel Rivals is being developed for PC by a NetEase team comprised of global talent, who previously worked on hit franchises such as Call of Duty and Battlefield.”
Marvel Rivals Trailer and Plot
In true comic book style, the game’s story revolves around Doctor Doom and his counterpart from 2099, who force the Marvel multiverse to collide in the Timestream Entanglement, with heroes and villains from across the multiverse uniting to put an end to their nefarious plans.
As with other team-up hero shooters, the plot is really just an excuse to get all these super-powered fighters in one place and trade blows. There’s a lot to process in the trailer. We see Bruce Banner transforming into the Hulk mid-battle, Doctor Strange conjuring a Sling Ring to transport Spider-Man and other superheroes to the center of the fight elsewhere on the map, and Black Panther summoning Bast.
Marvel Rivals Release Date
Marvel has yet to announce an official release date for “Marvel Rivals.” The game will be free to play when it launches on PC, and Marvel teased updates like seasonal releases, new superheroes, and more new content after its release. “Marvel Rivals” is currently wishlistable on both Steam and the Epic Games Store.
Confirmed playable characters in Marvel Rivals
As for the game’s roster, Marvel has confirmed the following 18 characters You can play from the beginning:
- rocket raccoon
- Groot
- doctor strange
- Black Panther
- Iron Man
- Spiderman
- Lord of the stars
- Scarlet Witch
- Loki
- namor
- magnet
- Magic
- Storm
- Peni Parker
- snow moon
- Helmet
- Mantis
- The Punisher
How to Sign Up for the Marvel Rivals Alpha Playtest
If you’re eager to put Marvel’s version of “Overwatch” to the test, you’re in luck. “Marvel Rivals” will be available to play in a closed alpha test starting in May and registration is officially open.
To register for the “Marvel Rivals” closed alpha, you’ll first need to fill out this formregistration form and answer questions about what game genres you play the most, your favorite PvP shooters, and how familiar you are with Marvel comics, movies, and shows.
Don’t feel pressured to give a specific answer – there is no “right” answer, as development teams typically look for players with a wide range of experiences during these types of early tests. Developer NetEase says the goal will be to test the game’s mechanics, point out bugs, and gather feedback from players. Playtest invitations will be sent via email, so be sure to keep an eye on your inbox.
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