"Marvel Rivals Season 1 Update: Mods Disabled"

Summary

• The Season 1 update for Marvel Rivals has eliminated the use of custom-made mods.
• NetEase has emphasized that using mods violates the game's terms of service.
• The ban on mods is likely aimed at protecting Marvel Rivals' profitability through in-game purchases.

The latest update for Marvel Rivals, released with Season 1, has removed the ability to use custom-made mods. Since its launch, fans have enjoyed creating and using bespoke character skins, but with the new season, these mods no longer function.

Following a successful and highly profitable launch in early December, Marvel Rivals introduced its Season 1 content on January 10, 2025. The highlight of this season is the addition of The Fantastic Four as playable heroes, with Mr. Fantastic and the Invisible Woman already available, and the Thing and the Human Torch expected to join later, possibly in late February. The season also features a new Battle Pass, new maps, and a new Doom Match game mode.

However, a significant unannounced change is that players can no longer use their mods, leaving characters in their default appearances. NetEase Games has always stated that using mods, even cosmetic ones, violates the game's terms of service and has threatened bans for their use. It appears that the Season 1 update has implemented hash checking, a method that verifies data authenticity, effectively preventing the use of mods.

Marvel Rivals Eliminates Mod Use

This action against mods is not entirely unexpected within the Marvel Rivals community. NetEase has been clear about its stance in the terms of service and has previously taken action against specific mods, such as banning a mod that replaced Captain America's head with that of Donald Trump. Despite this, the move has disappointed many players who valued the customizable content, with some creators sharing unreleased mods on platforms like Twitter that will now never be used.

Some mods have been controversial, featuring provocative content like nude hero skins, leading to complaints from players. However, the primary reason for banning mods seems to be a strategic business decision. As a free-to-play game, Marvel Rivals relies on in-game purchases for revenue, primarily through character bundles that include new skins, sprays, and other cosmetic items. Allowing free cosmetic mods could undermine the game's profitability by reducing the incentive for players to make these purchases.