Marvel Rivals Reveals How Often Fans Can Expect New Heroes

Marvel Rivals: An Ambitious Hero Release Schedule

Marvel Rivals, the hit third-person hero shooter launched in December 2024, boasts an impressive roster of 33 playable heroes. But the game's developers at NetEase aren't resting on their laurels. They've announced a remarkably ambitious plan: adding a new hero approximately every 45 days.

This aggressive release schedule translates to eight new heroes annually—more than double the rate of competitors like Overwatch 2. The first season, already underway, showcases this commitment with the staggered release of the Fantastic Four. Mister Fantastic and Invisible Woman are already available, with The Thing and Human Torch slated for the second half of the season. Season 1 also includes two new New York City maps.

Game Director Guangyun Chen confirmed this rapid release cadence in an interview with Metro, explaining a new hero will launch every 45 days, splitting each three-month season in half.

The Feasibility of a 45-Day Hero Release Cycle

This ambitious plan has sparked debate among fans. While NetEase has access to a vast library of Marvel characters, including lesser-known heroes like Jeff the Shark and Squirrel Girl, concerns remain about the development time required for each new hero. Thorough testing and balancing are crucial, especially considering the existing 37 heroes and approximately 100 abilities within the game. The potential for a shortage of innovative abilities is another factor. Unless NetEase has a substantial backlog of pre-developed heroes, maintaining this pace seems challenging to many players.

What's Next for Marvel Rivals?

For now, players can anticipate the arrival of the remaining Fantastic Four members as Season 1 progresses. Additional surprises, such as new maps or in-game events, are also possible during the season's second half. Keep an eye on Marvel Rivals' social media channels for updates.