Marvel Rivals is preparing for big changes, with leaked files hinting at a new stadium mode and potential loot box features in Season 4. The new mode looks set to introduce round-based hero upgrades, fresh abilities, and unique builds, while datamined references suggest loot boxes may return in future events.

ℹ️ Possible Upcoming Gamemode

A few strings were added referencing a mode similar to Overwatch's Stadium, with assignable points, talents and loadouts.

It'll have a store which can only be opened in the spawn room, likely to equip abilities.#MarvelRivals pic.twitter.com/KS6BQglO4q

— PSYLOCKE.GG (@RivalsPsylocke) September 7, 2025

Stadium Mode Leak Changes How Marvel Rivals Plays

Datamined strings from RivalsPsylocke uncovered references to a brand-new stadium mode in Marvel Rivals, similar to Overwatch’s Stadium system. The mode includes assignable talent points, ability replacements, and build types like “sword build” and “ultimate build.” A special store, available only in the spawn room, allows players to buy upgrades during matches.

Overwatch’s Stadium uses a best-of-seven format where players earn match currency to enhance abilities, unlock new powers, and redefine playstyles mid-round. If Marvel Rivals mirrors this design, matches could evolve dynamically as players improve their heroes while competing.

The leak also connects to existing lore. Season 4 gallery cards reference the Grandmaster preparing his “own little game,” possibly hinting that this stadium-style mode is part of an upcoming gladiator arena theme.

New Powers and Upgrades Coming With Stadium Mode

Evidence from the earlier Ultron Battle Matrix mode shows how powerful these upgrades can be. In that mode, legendary modules transformed heroes in wild ways:

  • Hela could fire up to five projectiles per attack

  • Venom grew in size when using his ultimate

  • Star-Lord locked onto multiple enemies simultaneously

If these kinds of upgrades become playable in stadium mode, matches will feel more chaotic and strategic at the same time. Players will have control over customizing damage boosts, faster ultimates, or even entirely new hero abilities during rounds.

Loot Box System (“Mysteries”) May Return

The leaks also revealed references to “mysteries,” an internal codename for loot boxes found in Season 4’s files. Strings like cosmic mysteries number and box open history change indicate that a loot box system may be in testing.

Loot boxes could be coming to #MarvelRivals at some point in the future:

In Season 4, logic for the "Mysteries" player component was reintroduced. "Mysteries" is the codename for loot boxes. Within this component, there are multiple references to mystery box logic, such as… pic.twitter.com/QjYru0AmI3

— RivalsInfo (@RivalsInfo) September 7, 2025

It’s unclear whether these loot boxes would be tied to premium currency or offered through free events. Given community concerns around monetization, there’s speculation that loot boxes could work like Overwatch’s event-based rewards—earned through gameplay rather than direct purchases. This approach would avoid backlash while keeping seasonal events engaging.

What’s Next for Marvel Rivals Players

With stadium mode introducing in-match hero progression and a potential loot box system in the works, Marvel Rivals is preparing for one of its biggest updates yet. The mode’s flexible loadouts, upgraded powers, and lore tie-ins suggest developers are exploring deeper gameplay variety while testing new reward systems.

If handled carefully, stadium mode could become a major attraction for both casual and competitive players. As for loot boxes, the community will be watching closely to see if they remain event-driven or introduce a premium layer.