When Overwatch was first released in 2016, it seemed like Blizzard Entertainment had its next major hit. As an original IP with lovable characters, the franchise has since stumbled a bit with its controversial sequel. However, many would agree that Overwatch’s gameplay is well-designed and, aside from toxic players, very enjoyable and fun to play. So what if you took that formula and dropped in even more iconic characters?
That appears to be exactly what NetEase and Marvel Games are doing with Marvel Rivals. An upcoming 6v6 team-based shooter that will be free to play on PC, today’s announcement trailer reveals an Overwatch-like foundation with a “team-up” mechanic that will surely add depth to team composition and strategies. Although no release date has been announced, the game will undergo a Closed Alpha test this May.
The reveal included Marvel Rivals’ initial roster, featuring Black Panther, Doctor Strange, Groot, Hulk, Iron Man, Loki, Luna Snow, Magik, Magneto, Mantis, Namor, Peni Parker, Rocket Raccoon, Scarlet Witch, Spider-Man, Storm, Star-Lord, and The Punisher. The game will also have destructible environments, which definitely matches the Marvel superhero universe.
Although specific details have not been released, it’s a safe bet that Marvel Rivals will include a season pass and microtransactions, given that the game is free to play. With the giant roster of heroes and villains from the Marvel universe, we expect plenty of new characters and locations to be added over time.
