Marvel Rivals fans have a lot to be excited about, as recent leaks and official confirmations have revealed six new characters, details about Season 2’s theme, and long-term plans from the game’s developer, NetEase. Here’s everything you need to know.

Hellfire Gala Confirmed as Season 2 Theme

In a previous Marvel Rivals update, Miller Ross hinted that Season 2 would revolve around the Hellfire Gala event. While speculation ran wild, we now have official confirmation. Players unlocking gallery cards in the latest event will find a significant clue in the card titled Plans Within Plans. In this card’s story, Doctor Doom explicitly mentions attending a gala. Given the Marvel Universe’s lore, this almost certainly refers to the Hellfire Gala, making it the central theme for the upcoming season. X-Men fans are in for a treat as this highly anticipated event takes center stage in Marvel Rivals.

NetEase Confirms Long-Term Commitment to Marvel Rivals

NetEase, the developer and publisher of Marvel Rivals, recently held its earnings call, during which it reassured investors of its strong commitment to the game. Not only is the company doubling down on resources to ensure consistent high-quality content, but it also confirmed a long-term roadmap. NetEase has publicly stated that they are planning at least 10 years of support for Marvel Rivals. While long-term success depends on player engagement and financial viability, this statement signals a major investment in the game’s future. Players can confidently immerse themselves in Marvel Rivals, knowing that NetEase is dedicated to its growth and longevity.

Six New Characters Leaked

Leaked voice lines have revealed six upcoming characters for Marvel Rivals, adding even more depth to the game’s growing roster. Here’s a breakdown of the new additions:

  • Angela – Originally from the Spawn Universe before joining Marvel, Angela is Thor’s long-lost sister. This inclusion could mean she joins as a DPS character, rounding out a possible trio with Thor and Loki, who already represent different roles.
  • Captain Marvel (Carol Danvers) – One of Marvel’s most powerful heroes, Captain Marvel’s arrival is highly anticipated. She will likely be a duelist, further expanding the game’s high-energy character options.
  • Jean Grey (Phoenix) – Jean Grey’s potential inclusion is particularly exciting, as leaks suggest that both her standard form and Phoenix form could be playable. If her Phoenix form acts as an ultimate ability or a transformation into a DPS role, she could be the game’s first true hybrid character.
  • Hit-Monkey – A lesser-known character, Hit-Monkey has yet to gain widespread popularity, but his unique concept (essentially John Wick with a monkey) makes him a fascinating addition. His size could make him difficult to target, similar to Rocket Raccoon, raising potential balancing concerns.
  • MODOK – One of the few villains confirmed in this batch, MODOK is expected to be a Vanguard character. There’s speculation that he could summon AIM soldiers as part of his abilities, similar to how Namor deploys sentry turrets.
  • Deadpool – Easily the most anticipated of the bunch, Deadpool’s inclusion was hinted at in the Shibuya 2099 map and in the game’s collaboration with Marvel Snap. Given his popularity and potential for unique combat mechanics, he’s sure to be a major draw for players.

A Growing Concern: Too Many Duelists?

While this new roster is exciting, it has raised concerns about Marvel Rivals’ character balance. Many of these characters appear to be duelists, potentially overshadowing other roles. If we examine recent leaks, the pattern is clear:

  • Angela – Possible duelist, but could be a Vanguard
  • Blade – Duelist
  • Captain Marvel – Duelist
  • Deadpool – Duelist
  • Hit-Monkey – Likely a duelist
  • Jean Grey – Strategist, but Phoenix form may lean toward DPS
  • MODOK – Vanguard
  • The Hood – Duelist
  • Ultron – Rumored strategist
  • Emma Frost – Could be a strategist, duelist, or even a Vanguard

This list suggests a heavy duelist presence, which might create balancing issues. Some characters could potentially be adjusted to fill other roles, such as turning Hit-Monkey into a support character or reinterpreting The Hood as a Vanguard. Future updates will clarify how these characters fit into the game’s ecosystem.